About
Cassie Pali's powerful underwater portraiture has been recognized several times by the International Spiritual Art Awards in the past few years. Most recently she has won the category of Photographic Fine Art with the piece ‘Rise Up’.
‘Rise Up’ and its accompanying poem was inspired by the trials of facing breast cancer for both herself and her daughter. It focuses on moving upward from initial fear and uncertainty to finding the strength within to confront and overcome adversity.
Capturing the beauty and grace that is found underwater, Cassie creates fine art pieces that showcase Hawaiian culture, goddesses, and mermaids in the ethereal world. She works with clients and models to create magic in her fantasy portraits.
A New Mission: From Portrait Photography to Fine Art
After months of experimenting with underwater photography, I realized something important: my work looked just like everyone else’s. The images were beautiful, yes, but they didn’t reflect the vision I had in my mind. I wanted to create something more than just photographs. I wanted to make fine art—something that wasn’t bound by the constraints of traditional photography.
And so, my journey into blending photography with digital painting began. I didn’t want to merely capture reality; I wanted to transform it. My work became a fusion of the tangible (photography) and the abstract (painting). This hybrid style is still evolving, and I find myself in a space that’s not quite defined yet and I love it.
The Art of Underwater Fine Art
Underwater photography is not just about capturing the liquid environment; it’s about capturing emotion, texture, and movement beneath the surface. In my work, I blend the beauty of the natural world with my own artistic interpretation. Each image begins with a photograph, but it doesn’t stop there. I use digital painting techniques to bring out the colors, light, and textures, creating something that feels more like a dream than a photograph.
It’s a process of constant discovery and experimentation—taking what’s beneath the water’s surface and transforming it into something far more personal. It’s a journey I’m excited to be on, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share it with you.
What’s Coming Up
There’s so much more to this story, but I’ll save that for future updates. I’m currently working on a new collection of underwater fine art that I can’t wait to share with you soon. Be sure to stay connected through my social media channels @cassiepaliart (my artwork) @casafras_h2o (my life) where you can get a closer look at my process and upcoming exhibitions.
This could be YOU!
I collaborate with clients and models to spark ideas and create costumes, diving deep into the creative process. Together, we explore concepts in great detail, crafting something unique.
What would your fantasy portrait reveal about you?
