Surrounded by his collectors, the artist took the stage during his two-day shows in his own gallery, Kush Fine Art, in downtown Laguna Beach, CA. The anticipation and excitement just before the veil came off his new masterpiece was then followed with applause and astonishment. The artist described the meaning behind his new painting:
Ancient people experienced fear and respect when they witnessed a volcanic eruption. They worshiped the fire as a symbol of divine power. That is where legends about stealing fire come from, such as the one of Prometheus.
There is a similar legend in Polynesian mythology. According to the story, Maui, a cultural hero and a trickster, stole the fire from the underworld gods. Hence the volcanic origin of the Hawaiian Islands becomes more evident. In another legend, Maui knew a tribe of birds that had mastered the art of fire-making, and he captured the leader who gave him their secret.
The symbolism of fire, related to revival and renewal, is personified in the image of the Phoenix Bird, which is reborn from its own ashes. In the Easter liturgies of the Roman Catholic Church, candles are extinguished and then ignited again with a new fire.
After the devastating fires in Lahaina, this tragic event came to be known as the “Firestorm Hell in Paradise”. For the artist, this was his way of processing the loss of his gallery through his creativity and, at the same time, discovering a new bird species, the “Hawaiian Firestorm Bird”.
Kush’s gallery “Kush Fine Art” was burned during this tragic event in Lahaina, HI. It was 22 years ago when the artist embarked on his own Metaphorical Voyage and opened his first art gallery in Maui. The historic town of Lahaina holds a very special place in the artist’s life, history, and journey. His connection to Maui, and especially to the historic town of Lahaina, is undeniable. Many of his artworks include symbolisms that showcase the inspiration rooted from the magical Island of Maui.
San Diego, CA, September 21, 2025 –(CarryOnHarry.com)– San Diego based local artists, and avid surfers, Max Gold and Amal Chandaria launch Earlier, a dance-focused event catering to adults who eschew traditional late night club options choosing instead for an early evening of dancing that allows them to be home and in bed by 10:30.
As adults worldwide embrace non-traditional entertainment trends, including dancing at all hours of the day, Earlier is primed to serve an expanding audience of those 21 and over who prefer activities that are both exhilarating and allow its patrons to meet their early morning obligations.
“We believe that you shouldn’t have to choose between a good night out and a good night’s sleep,” says co-founder Gold. “Our mission is to empower attendees to dance hard, live loudly and feel alive without paying for it the next day.”
Gold and Chandaria hatched the idea for Earlier after a birthday celebration that ended at 2 am led to missing out on the next day’s cleanest waves—which are seldom available after sunrise.
“We didn’t want to miss out on being with friends, but we also felt like there was an opportunity to offer an entertainment alternative for others like us,” continues Gold. “Earlier can be compared to a North County beach party at sunset. We provide an open, non-exclusive space to let loose, dance, have a drink, experience a great night out and still be in bed on time.”
Their first event, held July 29 at Belly Up in Solana Beach, validated their concept. Their next event, to be held September 23 at Belly Up featuring DJs Senzo, Mr. Bold and Sonny Olivera, will solidify it. Earlier plans to expand to additional U.S. cities in 2026.
The Carolina Soul Music Awards is proud to announce that official voting is now open. Fans, supporters, and industry peers are encouraged to participate in selecting the artists, DJs, and cultural contributors who continue to shape the rich legacy of Southern Soul music.
Votes may be submitted at www.CarolinaSoulMusicAwards.com. The public voting window is limited, and early participation is strongly encouraged.
Presented by chart-topping artist King George, the Inaugural Carolina Soul Music Awards is a formal affair designed to recognize the artistry, influence, and cultural significance of Southern Soul. Known for its emotional depth and authenticity, the genre draws from blues, gospel, and R&B to tell the heartfelt stories of the American South.
“We are not simply hosting an event—we are preserving a cultural tradition,” says King George. “This night is about legacy, community, and giving our legends their flowers while they can still smell them.”
Guests will enjoy an evening of elegance, complete with red carpet arrivals, distinguished awards presentations, and world-class live performances.
Event Details:
Attire: Black Tie
Doors Open: 5:00 PM
Red Carpet Experience: 6:00 PM
Showtime: 8:00 PM
Venue: DoubleTree Hotel, 2100 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC
Honoree: Acclaimed recording artist Calvin Richardson will be presented with the prestigious CSMA Legend Award, recognizing his enduring impact on the genre.
General Admission and VIP tickets are available at www.CarolinaSoulMusicAwards.com.
Sponsorship opportunities are now open.
For media inquiries and official correspondence, please email: contact@thecsma.com
