Christian Riese Lassen

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Christian Riese Lassen is Hawaii's premier marine artist. Working in acrylics, enamels and oils, Lassen captures dolphins, humpback whales, sea turtles, tropical beaches, gorgeous island paradises, and majestic ocean storms, all depicted in an idealized romantic vision that conjures the utopia of the natural world.

Although some critics may dub Lassen's work sentimental or kitschy, fans have resonated with his pastoral seascapes and deeply romantic vision of nature, making him one of the most beloved and recognizeable artists in the marketplace.

His paintings and sculptures are displayed in galleries across the United States and Japan, and adorn merchandise ranging from greeting cards and jigsaw puzzles to wristwatches to scuba gear.

When he was a child, Lassen's family moved to the Hawaiian island of Maui where the oceans began to have a powerful effect on him, inspiring his future work. It is only through this direct observation of the ocean that I can accurately paint its magnificence, Lassen has said about his work.

Lassen has also dedicated himself environmental causes. In 1990, he founded Sea Vision, a nonprofit organization devoted to preserving the oceans and their sea life, as well as the animals in our planet's delicate ecosystems. We are the guardians of the earth and it's oceans and our actions are reflected in its bounty and ability to sustain life, Lassen says in Sea Vision's mission statement.

Lassen is also one of the most successfully licensed artists in the world today, with more than 70 licensees worldwide. He has developed major alliances with The Walt Disney Company, MCA Universal, Sumitoro Bank, National Panasonic, JVC Victor.

Lassen has recently focused his creative talents on music, creating his debut album, Turn the Tide. Like his art, his music depicts the Earth's plea for human concern.