Hawaii Fluid Art

Imagine your own personal paradise.What does it look like? How does it make you feel? Maybe this place provides quieting comfort from the noise of outside stressors -enabling you to fully unwind. Or, maybe it’s a place where  your sense of adventure comes alive resulting in beautiful discoveries that leave you in awe. Whatever your version of paradise, you can find it just east of the Pearl Street Mall at Hawaii Fluid Art Boulder. 

Catherine Bruning stumbled across fluid art in the midst of the pandemic while scrolling through TikTok, “As many of us did, I tried to find something new to do while staying home,” she said. Little did Catherine know that this creative endeavor, which was originally used to pass the time, would turn into a Store Manager position at Hawaii Fluid Art’s Boulder Studio in April of 2023. Fast forward to present day, locally-owned studio locations can be found throughout the nation.

The Hawaii Fluid Art franchise was founded in 2020 by artist Maya Ratliff. “Our founder (Maya), was initially living in Hawaii and became heavily influenced by the colors and nature which took hold of the entire style of fluid art,” Catherine says. Fluid art is exactly what it sounds like - this niche art medium layers vibrant colors of watered-down acrylic paint and is traditionally poured over a canvas. As Catherine describes it, “When you pour the paint, you really go by what the paint is feeling that day…you get to let loose and whatever happens, happens!” The fluidity of the work makes every piece created uniquely one’s own - a true original. “I ask everyone who comes in for a class to keep an open mind and also not to mind getting a little messy. Our most popular class is the Fluid Art where we get to play around and make something abstract that no one else can replicate.” The fun doesn’t end there, Hawaii Fluid Art provides an array of unique fluid art classes from resin beach scenes to custom resin tumbler classes and more.

For Catherine, the true magic of her work is rooted in accessibility, specifically providing an opportunity for others to create and enjoy. “I love being able to provide something that everyone can do. I’ve seen two year olds come in and absolutely crush it. We also do a lot of work with Imagine Colorado, an organization who provides services to adults with disabilities.” The studio itself offers a welcoming atmosphere with colorful art pieces made by staff  and local artists on the walls, filled with high energy class sessions and even a glow-in-the-dark Neon Room for special painting events. “It’s especially nice to offer a hands-on experience that will be quick and that it won’t take up your entire day.” 

Along with many downtown Boulder businesses, community is a priority to Catherine and her team of artists at Hawaii Fluid Art. “I feel strongly that if you are benefitting in any way from a community, there is no reason to not give back to it. We all can play a part in different aspects of our community.” The studio regularly partners with non-profit organizations for fundraising and events including local Boulder organizations, Rocky Mountain Equality and All Roads (formerly known as Boulder Shelter for the Homeless). Embracing the community spirit found throughout downtown Boulder, Hawaii Fluid Art stands out by offering a unique, hands-on experience that complements its nearby East End shops and restaurants.

Looking for a creative destination in a warm environment? Wander off the mall, book a class and step into the welcoming doors of Hawaii Fluid Art for an artistic adventure. From there, just sit back, relax and reignite your creative flame. Regardless of the outcome, let the paint do the talking and enjoy your creative slice of paradise.