The public is invited to the free 16th Annual Hawaii Nei Art Exhibition at Wailoa Center in Hilo.
Hawaii Nei is a multimedia, juried art exhibition celebrating the native flora and fauna of Hawaii Island hosted by the Three Mountain Alliance, the Hawaii Island Art Alliance, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife and the Wailoa Center.
Artists of all ages have been invited to submit works of art highlighting the native plants, animals and habitats of our beloved island, our Hawaii Nei.
This annual show brings together imagery of native species — from the upland forests to ocean ecosystems, all in one place. It is a way for the whole community to access and learn more about the special plants and animals that arrived in Hawaii far before the first human set foot in these islands.
Selection of works for this year’s exhibition were made by Carl F.K. Pao and Danya Weber for the adult division, and Kawehi Mahi-Roberts for the youth division.
Pao is a prolific artist, known for his bold and thoughtful works deeply embedded in a Hawaiian world view. Pao has taught art at Kamehameha Schools at Kapalama and Keaau campuses since 2000.
Weber has a background in ecology and conservation biology and founded Laulima, a local brand focused on promoting awareness of native species. With Laulima, Weber is also able to share her own artistic talents.
Mahi-Roberts, this year’s youth juror, is an up-and-coming artist with roots in Hilo and Puna. She is known for her mural work in the crosswalks around Keaukaha Elementary.
This year’s Hawaii Nei features several Saturday events to celebrate native species.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, Hawaii Nei will be hosting a DIY Holiday Wrapping Paper workshop from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Save the date!
Hawaii Nei is on display now through Dec. 12 at Wailoa Center.
Wailoa Center is free and open to the public during the exhibit, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (closed on state holidays).
The center is located at 200 Pi‘opi‘o Street in Hilo. For more information about Hawaii Nei, visit www.hawaiineiartexhibition.org.
