Artist Bio
Artist Bio — Julie Scheyer
Julie Scheyer at the Shanghai–Hawaiʻi Abstract Art Exchange Exhibition, Liu Haisu Art Museum, January 2026.
Inspired by Hawaiʻi — from mountain peaks to ocean depths — I transform my experiences into one-of-a-kind sculptural lighted art.
Every sculpture begins with two crystal-clear liquids. Through chemistry, my experiences are transformed into sculptural lighted art inspired by the beauty, movement, and spirit of Hawaiʻi.
From Chemical Engineering to Art
Before becoming an artist, I earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from Oregon State University (1995) — the hardest thing I've ever done, and the most rewarding. I worked at Intel from 1995 to 2002, where I helped champion environmentally responsible lead-free manufacturing technologies and was awarded U.S. Patent 6,288,906 B1 for my work on printed circuit boards.
In 2002, I made the bold shift from the corporate world to pursue art full-time. I used my Intel stock options to buy an apartment building and converted it into a boutique hotel — Hood River Suites — whose income funds my art and my travels with my husband, Ken Winner. I moved to Maui in 2010.
The Polymer Process
My background in polymer chemistry allows me to approach materials differently than most artists. Through years of experimentation, I have developed original techniques that guide the chemistry during the curing process, creating luminous depth, flowing forms, and organic textures that are uniquely my own. While every sculpture begins with the same two crystal-clear liquids, no two are ever alike.
Living on Maui is the heart of my inspiration. As a competitive wing foiler — the first woman wingfoiler — former windsurfer, kiteboarder, and scuba diver, I have experienced Hawaiʻi from perspectives few people ever witness: from soaring above the ocean while crossing the channels between Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Oʻahu, to looking upward toward the light while beneath the ocean's surface. Those experiences are transformed into sculptural lighted art that reflects the movement of the ocean, coral reefs, and clouds over Haleakalā.
One of a Kind, Always
Every sculpture is individually hand-shaped during its chemical reaction. Because chemistry, temperature, timing, and movement are never exactly the same twice, no piece can ever be truly replicated. Each sculpture is a genuine one-of-a-kind original, created exclusively by hand in Maui, Hawaiʻi.
My sculptural lighted art — better known as lampshades — is different from every angle. As you rotate each piece, every section is different. They're also very durable and easy to clean because they're chemically inert, unlike fabric, which catches dust. Martin & MacArthur supplies the koa lamp bases; the shades are my polymer artwork.
Exhibitions & Recognition
My work has been exhibited nationally and internationally through juried exhibitions, including the Shanghai–Hawaiʻi Abstract Art Exchange at the Liu Haisu Art Museum in Shanghai, China, exhibitions in New York City, and galleries throughout Hawaiʻi.
Giving Back
Giving back is an important part of my artistic journey. I was honored to serve as the Official Trophy Artist for the 2025 and 2026 Maui to Molokaʻi Challenge, creating one-of-a-kind sculptural awards celebrating one of Hawaiʻi's iconic ocean crossings. My work is also installed at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma, Washington, and I regularly contribute artwork to charitable fundraisers and silent auctions. I believe art has the power to lift spirits, inspire connection, and create moments of peace, wonder, and hope.
Each sculpture is an invitation to slow down, look toward the light, and experience Hawaiʻi through my eyes.
Available at:
Shops at Wailea — 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753 — (808) 891-8844
Whalers Village — 2435 Ka'anapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761 — (808) 866-5491
Grand Hyatt Kauai — 1571 Poipu Rd #12, Koloa, HI 96756 — (808) 240-1237
Ala Moana — 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814 — (808) 941-0074
By the Bay Gallery — (808) 579-9777
90 Hana Hwy, Pāʻia, Maui, HI 96779
Desert Valley Gallery — (702) 476-0767
410 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 145, Las Vegas, NV 89145
— Julie Scheyer