The Volcano Art Center presents “Nani Ka ‘Ikena,” a photography exhibit by Jesse Tunison, from Aug. 10-Sept. 15 at its gallery in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The exhibit will be open to the public from 9 a.m.-5 p.m daily. However, on opening day, Aug. 10, a special reception with the artist is slated from 5-7 p.m.
The exhibit’s title references beautiful sights and visuals and translates more literally to “that which is seen is beautiful,” which poetically explains the collection of large scale photography on display. The exhibit features vibrant colors and crisp, wide vistas that highlight the character and drama of Hawaii Island’s landscape.
The collection, which consists of 10 photographs, was captured during the past decade by Tunison and documents the dynamic changes that occurred in such a short period of time. While the landscape changed, the beauty endured.
Tunison was raised in Volcano Village, surrounded by artists. While there were many creative influences, his mother, Dina Kageler, an experienced photographer and artist, provided him the use of her old equipment.
While Tunison grew up around many professional artists, most had no experience in digital photography. Because of this, he considers himself a self-taught artist. His highly technical approach blended with a unique stylization of images blends perfectly with filmmaking and professional portrait photography.
In 2008, Tunison founded Toxikc Color Visuals, a studio that provides photography, sound and cinematography services. Today he is known as a professional fine art and commercial photographer, cinematographer, director and producer.
“While the Volcano Art Center has been displaying Jesse’s fine art photography for years, this is his first solo exhibition,” said gallery manager Emily C. Weiss. “We enjoy supporting young artists and their artistic endeavors and we invite the community to do the same by viewing the exhibition.”
The exhibit is free, but national park entrance fees apply.
For more information about Volcano Art Center, its workshops, events and exhibits, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
