Forest elders: Call to artists for Hawai‘i Nei 2017; featured category is Kumulaʻau, or ‘trees’

The Three Mountain Alliance, Natural Area Reserves System and Wailoa Center announce a call to artists for Hawai‘i Nei 2017, a juried art exhibition celebrating the native flora and fauna of Hawaii Island.

Amateur and professional artists of all ages are invited to submit works of art celebrating the native plants, animals and habitats of Hawai‘i Nei. Artwork will be displayed from Nov. 3 to Dec. 15 at the Wailoa Center. All residents of Hawaii Island are eligible to participate.

All submissions must be original, created in the past two years and have not been previously shown in any other exhibition, gallery or website.

Each year, Hawai‘i Nei selects a featured category to highlight a special species, theme or event. The 2017 featured category is kumula‘au — trees.

This year, artists can explore the foundation of the Big Island’s native forests. Trees are a crucial component of a healthy watershed. They often are referred to as “kumu” and even “kupuna” of the forest, being the base or trunk for multitudinous life but also teachers and grandparents.

Artwork in any medium or combination of media is welcome. Native species found only on other islands will not be accepted. All species found from ridge to reef on the Big Island are acceptable. Subjects from beyond the reef, including the deep ocean, will not be accepted. Artwork made from native species is strongly discouraged.

All artwork must be registered online by Oct. 19 at www.hawaiineiartcontest.org. A photo of the artwork and entry fees are required with registration. Artwork drop-off dates, times and locations are:

• 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 21 at Donkey Mill Art Center in Holualoa.

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 28 at Wailoa Center in Hilo.

Prizes will be awarded to top winners in categories from all divisions, with a $300 prize for Jurors Choice. Follow the Hawai‘i Nei Facebook page to stay updated for upcoming events. For more information, email hawaii.nei.art@gmail.com or visit www.hawaiineiartcontest.org.