Artist Fanny Bilodeau to talk story 2 p.m. March 30 at Kaua`i Museum

Kaua`i artist Fanny Bilodeau, known for her whimsical paintings of chickens surfing, drinking coffee and playing stringed instruments, will talk story about the joy of painting Kaua`i and her journey through art Saturday March 30 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Kauai Museum. Bilodeau will also be available after her chat to offer advice to aspiring artists. Attendees are invited to bring samples of their own artwork to show her. With her sunny disposition and playful sense of humor, it is sure to be a fun afternoon.

Bilodeau, who captures the warmth and beauty of Kaua`i in her paintings of the ocean, flowers, fruit and sugar plantation cottages, was artistic ever since she was young. Born in Zaire, she attended school in Belgium, lived in the continental United States for some years, and moved to Kaua`i in the 1990s, where, after raising four children with her husband, Ron, she became a full-time professional artist.

The conversation will be facilitated by Pamela Varma Brown, author of the book Kauai Stories: Life on the Garden Island told by Kauai’s People, a collection of 50 inspiring, touching and humorous stories about island life. Bilodeau’s story is included in the book, and her painting “Cottage #10” of the Waimea Plantation Cottages graces the cover of Kauai Stories. After the event, Bilodeau and Brown will be available to sign copies of the book, available for purchase at the museum.

This talk story event is part of the Kaua`i Museum’s ongoing “Author Series,” highlighting talented local writers, said Melisa Paterson, the museum’s public relations specialist.

Admission is $10; free to museum members. For more information, please call Kaua`i Museum at 245-6931.