The Hawai’i Nei opening reception and awards ceremonies were held Nov. 7 at Wailoa Center, with National Park Ranger Dean Gallagher announcing the youth awards, followed by a native species costume contest for all ages, then the adult awards presentation.
The Hawai’i Nei opening reception and awards ceremonies were held Nov. 7 at Wailoa Center, with National Park Ranger Dean Gallagher announcing the youth awards, followed by a native species costume contest for all ages, then the adult awards presentation.
The show — “Ridge to Reef” — runs through Dec. 18.
This exhibit is open to all artists on the Big Island, encouraging all ages and all abilities to explore and learn about what thrives in our backyards or what is critically endangered and is in need of our help and awareness. This exhibit is made possible through the sponsorship and dedication of the Three Mountain Alliance, the Natural Area Reserve System, the Mauna Kea Restoration Project and the Wailoa Center, a Division of State Parks, Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Awards for this year’s exhibit are generously provided by community members and businesses. Mahalo to Hana Hou, Hawaiian Force, Imiloa Astronomy Center, Volcano Helicopters, Jack Jeffery Photography, Cafe Ono, Hawaii Natural History Association, McDonnell Framing and Design, Keauhou Bird Conservation Center, Ohia Café, Papa‘a Palaoa Bakery and Zoe’s Native Plants.
The community is invited to Hawaii Nei Family Day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Wailoa Center in Hilo.
There will be educational activities and events for all ages and readings of “Hawaii’s Animals do the Most Amazing Things,” written by Marion Coste and illustrated by Rena Ekmanis; gallery docent tours, DIY crafts: Wrapping Paper (adult), gift card (kids), Button Making, ‘Akiapola‘au Toy, Forest Mural Scavenger Hunts,photo booth and mask making. Music will be provided by Kanoelehua and Kahele Miura.
It will be a free, fun and educational for the whole family.
The public is also invited to a holiday reception on Dec. 5 from 5-7 p.m. to celebrate Hawaii Nei “Ridge to Reef” native species.
The Volcano Art Center will be announcing the artist’s selection from the artists who entered the Hawaii Nei Exhibit for the artist invitational exhibit in May.
Entertainment will be provided by Kahele Miura and the ukulele kanikapila group HUKA.
Light refreshments will be served.