Wahi Pana (sacred place) Auwahi is the newest exhibition at Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center in Makawao. The show features invited artists as well as juried artists in all formats. Congratulations to all who make up this excellent exhibition that comes together to “bring the forest to the people through art.”
Comprised of volunteers, the Auwahi Forest Restoration Project originated in 1997 as a collaborative community effort to save the endangered Auwahi dry forest on southwest Haleakala. Many culturally important Hawaiian species can be found in this biological sanctuary, one of the last representations of an endangered Hawaiian forest type. I hope the Hui No’eau will continue to support this small nonprofit and the important work that they do.
Similar to the restoration project working quietly in the background is the large backdrop of this exhibit. The installation that stole the show was the Juror/Artist in Residence, Mazatl’s site-specific piece. He painted the entire room behind the area where the receptionist greets everyone. Very rarely are we treated to such a powerful and magical presentation.
The walls and ceiling, doors and shelves are consumed by the painting. Every viewer becomes part of the piece, turning in the room to see the space surrounded by the installation, looking dwarfed next to the main characters. In Japan they ask you to not talk when you enter the museum so everyone can enjoy the artwork in silence. Good plan. Silence is better for this viewing. If I tried to find the words to describe the work it would dilute the experience. Go see it before August 3rd at the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center.
To learn more about the Auwahi Forest Restoration Project, visit their website.