Trendsetter: Get to Know Local Artist and Muralist Fu’una
Fu'una is known for her eye-catching artwork across Providence.
Artist and muralist Fu’una. Photography courtesy of Fu’una.
You’ve done some really cool murals in and around Rhode Island. Can you share some favorites?
My piece “401: After Winter Must Come Spring,” which I did in downtown Providence with the Avenue Concept. I was able to retain full creative direction on that project, and it helped me reach a few milestones. I love my portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe, which is on Wickenden Street across from the gas station. She was ninety-three years old in the reference image with lots of sun damage from her time spent in New Mexico. That made it challenging and I’m happy with the results. And I love the sweet optimism of my “Dream Big, Work Hard” installation at Robert F. Kennedy Elementary School.
Mural of Georgia O’Keeffe, Providence. Photography courtesy of Fu’una.
Where do you find inspiration?
I gather a lot of source material through photography, especially when I travel. I seek out places that have interesting plants and animals. I also find a lot of inspiration in books and historical references. Libraries and bookstores give me a creative buzz. RISD’s Nature Lab is one of my favorite resources on animals. And I have fun seeking out historically significant sites.
“Rosa IKEA,” acrylic on canvas. Photography courtesy of Fu’una.
Can you tell us a bit more about your background?
Creativity runs in my family and was always encouraged. Once I started drawing as a toddler, I never stopped, and in high school I did my first mural. I started doing them professionally when I began working with Munir Mohammed, first as a teaching assistant then as a mural assistant. In 2017, I started doing my own murals professionally when I participated in a small community-based mural project in Beverly, Massachusetts.
Favorite local shops?
Art markets and vintage fairs. I enjoy finding unique items and buying directly from artists. RISD Craft and FADED are my top choices for those, and I always like to browse new spots.
Favorite restaurant?
Chilangos.
“Floral Pieta,” acrylic on canvas. Photography courtesy of Fu’una.
Favorite beauty product?
Tattoos. I tend to travel for tattoos, especially because many of mine have cultural significance.
Items you wear every day?
A crop top and sunglasses.
What does your ideal day in Rhode Island look like?
Start with a walk to get empanadas at Panaderia Salvadoreña and a cappuccino at Seven Stars. Then work in the studio for most of the day, go for a class or two at Kodokai Dojo, and later go out dancing. If it’s summer, I just want to go straight to the beach (Misquamicut) and stay there. atelier-fuuna.com
“CAW,” soft pastel on paper. Photography courtesy of Fu’una.
