Inspired by Jordan Higa

Born and raised in Honolulu, Jordan Higa's work is deeply rooted in the people, places, and everyday moments that make Hawai‘i feel like home. From playful stationery and illustrations to large-scale murals, her work balances a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection while celebrating the beauty found in daily life.

We chatted with Jordan about creative beginnings, finding inspiration close to home, the mentors who helped shape her path, and the projects that continue to push her work forward.

photo by Mark Kushimi

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a designer, illustrator, and painter born and raised in Honolulu. My style ranges from realism to loose linework, and I work across all kinds of mediums, from whimsical stationery inspired by everyday Hawai‘i life to murals for local companies and larger national brands like King’s Hawaiian and Target.

What first pulled you into your field? Was there a specific moment you knew this was your path?

I grew up drawing, painting, and taking photos, so design felt like a natural way to bring those interests together. Even while working design jobs in college and New York, I always made time to create on the side. When I moved home, a friend suggested I make cards for a small shopping event. That moment became the start of my stationery line and illustration career. After living away for eight years, I gained a renewed appreciation for the culture and everyday scenes of home and channeled that into my work. While my style has evolved, sharing that joy and love for Hawai‘i has stayed at the heart of what I do.

Who or what continues to inspire your work today?

My husband, who is also a designer and illustrator. We just got married in February and work side by side in our home office. His discipline and drive to keep improving keep me motivated.

After trying to avoid working together for nearly a decade, we’ve recently started collaborating on projects and artwork, which has been really refreshing. In May, we had our third showing at Greenroom Festival in Yokohama, blending his screen-printing skills with my background in painting. It's been nice to see how our styles have evolved together over these projects.

photo by Mark Kushimi

Is there a recent image or project that feels especially meaningful to you? Why?

Last September, I participated in Hawai‘i Walls for the first time. I had worked on murals before, but mostly large-scale decal installations. This was my first time painting a mural from start to finish, and we completed over 50 walls at a high school. It was amazing to connect with artists from around the world for a full week. I also loved meeting students, faculty, and community members, and ended up mentoring one student for a class project — that made the experience especially meaningful.

Any advice you'd share with someone entering the creative world?

Find your mentors. At every stage, I’ve leaned on people in the art and design world who offered feedback, studio space, internships, and guidance. Those relationships have been pivotal to my career, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

Outside of your work, what’s grounding or exciting you most right now?

Traveling always excites me, especially when I can catch a concert along the way. Right now I’m looking forward to seeing BTS (for the second time) in LA in September and making a big trip out of it. Hopefully we can squeeze in a honeymoon too!

When you’re seeking fresh inspiration, where do you find yourself turning — a place, a memory, etc.?

My friend (and one of my mentors) hosts monthly art meetups at her home. We vent, eat, and play with new materials, which I call my “art therapy.” Nothing is precious or judged. The goal is simply to be present and creative with friends.

What do you hope people feel or take away from your work?

Joy, connection, and an appreciation for nature. Whether it's a greeting card or mural, I want my work to make people smile and feel connected to each other and the natural world.

Follow along with Jordan Higa here