Volcano Art Center invites the community to join in celebrating the artwork and 80th birthday of Hawaii Island wildlife artist John D. Dawson in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Volcano Art Center invites the community to join in celebrating the artwork and 80th birthday of Hawaii Island wildlife artist John D. Dawson in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
From 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily Aug. 26 through Oct. 8, the center’s gallery will display Dawson’s illustrations in an exhibit titled “Live Long And Prosper Mighty ‘Ohi‘a.” This exhibition will feature illustrations and paintings depicting the naturally occurring diversity of ‘ohi‘a trees found within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
There will be a special opening reception with Dawson from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 26.
The ‘ohi‘a (Metrosideros polymorpha) is a species of flowering evergreen tree in the myrtle family that is endemic to the six largest islands of Hawaii. A highly variable tree, its height has been recorded from 66-82 feet tall in favorable situations and as small shrub when growing in boggy soils or directly on basalt. The ‘ohi‘a tree is well-known for its brilliant display of flowers, known as lehua blossoms, made up of a mass of stamens which can range in color from red to yellow.
“Dawson’s depictions of one of Hawaii’s most beloved trees is surely an exhibit not to miss,” said gallery manager Emily C. Weiss. “Collectors of John’s work appreciate his eye for realism. His detailed paintings and drawings include both biological accuracy and the skillful rendering of the subtlest details of flora and fauna.”
Weiss hopes the exhibit will bring awareness and understanding to the threat of the fungal disease Ceratocystis fimbriata, more commonly known rapid ‘ohi‘a death, or ROD, which is currently attacking and killing the most abundant native tree on our island.
Dawson’s artwork is included within the maps provided to all visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as well as the stunning educational display inside the Kilauea Visitor Center. One of Dawson’s proudest accomplishments is the Nature in America stamp series which includes a lush depiction of the Hawaiian rain forest created for the United States Postal Service.
Dawson’s resume includes many major assignments and has appeared in national publications for the National Geographic Society, National Wildlife Federation, Audubon Society, United Nations and the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, among others. With decades of experience, Dawson’s work continues to captivate audiences.
Weiss reminds everyone that the exhibit also in celebration of Dawson’s 80th birthday.
“VAC is honored to celebrate his 80 years of art and life,” Weiss said. “With decades of experience, Dawson’s work continues to captivate and grace the walls of many island residents who appreciate Hawaii’s native flora and fauna.”
Dawson will be sharing his art as well as personal stories and inspirations in an evening presentation from 7-9 p.m. Aug. 31 at VAC’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. This free event is part of the center’s Thursday Nights at the Center programs.
For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or contact Weiss at 967-8222 or gallery@volcanoartcenter.org.