Jan Hashi is a Hawaiʻi-based artist whose work is known for its vibrancy, texture, and expressive use of color, an evolution shaped by a lifelong relationship with art. She began pursuing her creative passion in her teens while growing up in Arizona, where proximity to the galleries of Scottsdale and Sedona offered early inspiration and exposure to accomplished artists. While her 20s and 30s were devoted to raising a family and building a career as a kitchen designer, she continued painting in oils, developing a foundation rooted in detailed realism.

In her early 40s, Jan more fully embraced her artistic path after studying with influential instructor Lu Bellamak, who encouraged her to paint “big, loose, and from the soul.” This mentorship marked a turning point, opening her practice to experimentation and a broader range of styles and mediums. Today, her work spans oil, acrylic, watercolor, resin, and encaustic, moving fluidly between abstract, impressionistic, and realistic approaches; each piece reflecting her adventurous, curious spirit and willingness to explore.

Now based on Hawaiʻi Island, Jan draws daily inspiration from the flora, landscapes, and rhythms of island life. Her compositions are dynamic and layered, often blending bold color with intricate detail to capture both the energy and intimacy of the natural world. Deeply connected to her environment, she approaches painting as both a creative exploration and a personal response to place.

As a respected member of the local arts community and co-founder of Hashi’s Fine Art Gallery alongside her husband, Steve, Jan continues to evolve her work while living - and painting - exactly as she was encouraged: big, expressive, and from the soul.