Hi, I’m Maili Nina! I’m a painter and illustrator based in Honolulu, Hawaii. I graduated with a background in graphic design, but my love for animals and storytelling led me to pursue painting full-time.

I spent 2.5 years at Louis Vuitton, painting custom artwork in-store on their leather trunks. Today, I work as a freelance artist, specializing in hand-painted custom artwork for both private clients and brand collaborations. I paint live at in-store events for luxury brands—most recently for Marc Jacobs—customizing bags and accessories with personalized art.

When I’m not painting live, I work from my home studio, creating artwork in acrylic (or watercolor) on canvas, wood panels, and client-owned items. I’m best known for my pet portraits, but welcome commissions of all kinds.

Whether it's a keepsake for a loved one, an event activation, or something just for you, I’m passionate about creating meaningful, lasting pieces through hand-painted art.

The Story Behind "Shelloux"

Shelloux (“sheh-luu”) is my artist name that I made up that captures the essence of my daydreams and inner world. It’s inspired by the word 'shell'—as tribute to my love for snails. Snails have always fascinated me—I relates to their quiet, introverted nature and strangely alien-like anatomy. Something about their slow, thoughtful existence resonates with me, and they often find their way into my work subtly.