Kamaʻāina Collection

Artist Heather Westbrook walking on a beach in Hilo, Hawaii looking out over the water at Mauna Kean and Mauna Loa in the distance.

Slowing Down

Each year I create a stat card—part annual report, part creative reflection—to track the play-by-play of my work. It helps me see how far I’ve come. Starting something new brings adrenaline, ideas, and pressure in equal measure. After reviewing my 2024 stats, I realized it was time to slow down. The challenge now isn’t motivation—it’s learning how to pace the ideas that keep pouring in.

Apr 16, 20252 min read

What Inspires You?

Exploring the inspiration behind the Kamaʻāina Collection

Oct 21, 20242 min read

Photo of artist and creator behind HW Designs

Introduction Time…

I’m Heather Westbrook, a Hawaiʻi-based photographer and designer exploring nature in art and art in nature. Rooted in both Michigan and Hawaiʻi, my work blends photography, pattern design, and storytelling to highlight the beauty of place and culture. Inspired by turtles, I create at a slow-and-burst rhythm—observing closely, then moving with intention.

Sep 15, 20234 min read

HW Designs Aloha Hawaii Coloring book with a look inside showchasing some of the coloring pages and included design stories

Discover the Spirit of Hawai‘i – One Page at a Time

Step into the beauty of the Hawaiian islands with 25 hand-drawn coloring pages inspired by the traditional Hawaiian quilt. Each design blends the symmetry and balance of a mandala with the lush plants, flowers, and cultural symbols of Hawai‘i’s rich heritage.

hwdesigns

Nov 1, 20251 min read

Shifting Products

I have decided to stop producing some products once inventory is gone (e.g., cards, bibs, matted prints) and have limited editions of other products (e.g., bandanas and some designs on tea towels). I will always be a person that craves novelty and openly embraces change. I can't stop the ideas from flowing and do want to incorporate ideas that I hear from my customers.

hwdesigns

Oct 6, 20251 min read

Maroon, teal, green, and navy bandanas with Paniolo-inspired design representing Hawaiian cowboy culture and ranching history.

Paniolo Culture

Paniolo culture reflects adaptation, skill-sharing, and the blending of global influence with local knowledge. Hawaiian cowboys developed traditions rooted in respect for land and place. This design honors Hawaiʻi’s cowboy country. Bandanas featuring the new Paniolo pattern drop at the Merrie Monarch Hawaiʻi Arts & Crafts Fair at Nani Mauʻi Gardens and online April 24.

hwdesigns

Apr 18, 20251 min read