Sienna Nelson

Sienna Uilani Bailey Nelson was born in vibrant Maui in 1992. Her childhood was spent in nature—out at sea, traveling for art shows, exploring galleries and museums, and in her father's studio. Growing up with her Hawaiian heritage deeply influencing her, Sienna developed a passion for painting Hawaii’s landscapes, endemic plants, and animals. From a young age, she was constantly doodling, drawing her friends, family, and pets.

As the daughter of renowned artist Robert Lyn Nelson, Sienna’s admiration for self-expression through visual art was nurtured from the start.

Sienna left her island roots to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She studied painting, sculpture, and art history, which further fueled her fascination with color, light, and the human form.

In 2014, Sienna completed her BFA and began her professional career painting the world around her. She has participated in exhibitions in central California and private shows on Maui. Her preferred medium is oil on wood panel and canvas. Sienna's work blends historic and iconic postures with modern-day scenarios, often referencing classical sculptures and capturing their smooth marble texture.

Sienna is drawn to the way light interacts with statuesque forms, with her art focusing on the intersection of nature, man-made structures, and the human body.

Now based on Maui, Sienna continues to create art while balancing her time with her love for the ocean.