About the Artist
Born and raised in Kailua-Kona, Stephanie Daguio is a visual artist whose work draws from classical realism and the natural beauty of Hawai'i. From an early age, she was drawn to the way light, shadow, and form shaped the world around her—an observation that would grow into a lifelong study of portraiture and the emotional depth of stillness.
Now based out of her cozy home studio in Honoka’a, Stephanie creates thoughtful, expressive commissions and original works in pencil, charcoal, and oil paint. Her work spans a wide range of themes, all connected by quiet moments, softly rendered, rooted in memory, place, and light.. Whether it’s a portrait of someone’s tutu or the wild clouds of Waimea, Stephanie’s work is full of quiet observation and deep reverence for her island home.
A Message From the Artist
“I create art because I see stories in light. Whether it’s the shimmer of sunlight through plumeria petals, the curve of a shadow on someone’s cheek, or the stillness in an old photo of a loved one, I’m drawn to moments that speak softly but deeply. My work is rooted in close observation and appreciation for the beauty I find around me.
I work in pencil, charcoal, and oil because each medium has its own charm. Sometimes I want to capture atmosphere, other times it’s all about edges and subtle transitions. I love learning from old masters, including Caravaggio, Sargent, and Sorolla. Chiaroscuro—light and shadow—is more than technique to me; it’s a way to connect what we see with what we feel.
No matter what I’m making, my goal is always to make something heartfelt and real. I hope that when people see my work, they feel a sense of place, memory, and connection—like something familiar they forgot they remembered.