I've always been very selective when choosing subject matter. I think of it as one of the most important parts of the process. It is largely intuitive and something one doesn't always fully understand. As I get deeper into the years of my career, the trail behind is almost more illuminating than the one ahead. 

    We artists are largely a congregation of romantics and visionaries. The choice of subject matter comes out of preferences and predilections. I paint what I deem aesthetically inspiring and filter out the rest.

    Art contributes to the overall aesthetic atmosphere and it has the potential to influence others. My preference is very much the old-Hawaii mystique, its beautiful uncluttered grace and the unique spirit we have here. It is the vision and meaning within my work. Both consciously and subconsciously, this aesthetic is something I seek out to preserve and perpetuate.

    We are all creating something, whether it's artistic visions or otherwise, and our creations can't help but influence others to some degree. Braided Kiawes depicts sleepy Makena at what I consider its best, when the road was still unpaved, and the cove was quiet and empty. For me, this is where the present and the timeless intersect. I hope it takes you there and sustains you as much in your life as it has in mine.

Me ke aloha pumehana. -Curtis Wilson Cost