Summer

Gouache is an opaque, water-based paint that combines the fluidity of watercolor with the boldness of acrylic or oil paint. It consists of pigment, water, and a binding agent (usually gum arabic), with added chalk or white pigment to enhance its opacity. Gouache is popular among illustrators, designers, and fine artists for its rich color payoff, ease of use, and adaptability across different styles and techniques. Aaron Piland and Ayumi Kajikawa Piland are the fantastical magical duo known as APAK. They are a child-like husband and wife art team who live among the fury conifer giants in a little cottage on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon. They create artwork together as a way exploring the beauty, mystery, and magic of life as well as expressing their love for life and each other. They are known in particular for creating rich and colorful gouache/acrylic paintings on wood featuring the utopian lives and adventures of curious little beings living in lush fantastic environments surrounded by friendly little animals. It is their goal to bring something fresh, beautiful, and meaningful into the world in hopes of inspiring the next generation to live simply, peacefully, and in harmony with nature and each other. Welcome to their world, please enjoy your visit!