Bio
Aileen Tabuso is a mixed-media interdisciplinary artist based in Honolulu, Hawaii. She lives and practices on Oahu. After earning an Associate of Arts in Art from Kapiʻolani Community College in 2023, she continued to experiment with other mediums, diversifying her practice by taking on new mediums. Using paint, metal, and other materials in her pieces, she tackles the subject of vulnerability that stems from experiences and personal values. She is now pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.o something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Artist Statement
Art is my way to express emotion and open conversations about vulnerability. Through both direct and indirect representations of myself, I explore exposure. The art I create does not have to be aesthetically pleasing to the viewer. What is important is that the genuineness of the messages I send remains true throughout my career. I combine three-dimensional and two-dimensional forms, such as paint with other materials. Some pieces are solely two-dimensional or three-dimensional, while others blend both to express my message.
My art process is driven by emotion and experience. I begin each piece with a theme that guides the physical work. The medium I have the most experience in is painting. Throughout my practice, I have learned to expand my techniques by taking courses that differ from what I am comfortable with, drawing and painting. After that, I realized that I can enjoy the best of both worlds. Recently, I started layering materials beyond paint to enhance my pieces. The main materials that I have been using besides paint in my works are leather, cloth, and metal. The mix of three and two-dimensional forms is challenging yet engaging. Recently, I've explored more three-dimensional media, specifically metal. I will not limit myself to one medium and will still aspire to learn more.
I discuss the themes of power balance, inequality, and experiences. I let the vulnerability manifest itself through the materials and medium of choice. Experiences are not original to one individual. It is important to open up the discussion with others about the effects and experiences we face during moments of inner turmoil. I want art to be a way for others to be aware and have their voices heard. A call for reformation within the society and advocacy is needed in order for others to be aware of the oppression and injustices that are most susceptible to all the people in society.
Aileen Tabuso
Contact Information
Email: aileent@hawaii.edu
Phone: 808-439-4739
Education
BFA (pending), University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI (Expected Graduation: Fall 2026)
2023 | Associate of Arts Concentration in Art, Kapiolani Community College, Honolulu, HI
Awards and Honors
2022 | John Young Scholarship
Commissions and Purchases
2022 | "Sage House"
2020 | "Koi Fish"
Professional Experience
2022 | Art Instructor Assistant, Kalani High School “Rhythm in Art” Lesson
Metal Fabrication & Sculpture
Welding: MIG
Cutting & Forming: Plasma and torch
Finishing: Grinding, sanding, and polishing
Mold Making: Silicone and plaster
Painting
Acrylic and oil
Drawing
Graphite, charcoal, and conte crayon