‘Imiloa to Feature ‘EPIC ORIGAMI,’ ‘Between the Fields’

Beginning July 5 and lasting through September 27, the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center will feature an “EPIC ORIGAMI” exhibit featuring Bonnie Cherni, a Waimea artist, and many additional guests.

On July 5, the officially opening of the exhibit will take place beginning at 9 a.m. During the opening, two shows of “Between the Folds” will be presented at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Origami stations will be set up throughout the day. Those who are ‘Imiloa members are invited to a private pizza party lunch and hands-on excusive activities with Cherni.

During the three month exhibit, visitors of the center will have the opportunity to explore the art and science of origami, while learning how the application of math and art have made advances in astronomy, medicine, and the automotive industry.

In addition to the opening day, “Between the Folds” will play daily at 11 a.m. in the Planetarium in a letterbox format. The documentary provides a striking portrait of the remarkable artistic and scientific creativity that fuels the ever-changing art of origami, fusing science and sculpture, form and function, and ancient and new.

Both an origami folding station and scavenger hunt are also items that are part of the exhibit.

Cherni is a local artist who has had her work shown at Kahilu Theatre, Keck Observatory, and at the Waimea Ocean Film Festival. Within the work being presented at ‘Imiloa, Cherni will provide unique pieces that have yet to been unveiled, including the Jackson lizard, hoary bat, rhinos, wild pig, and a smiley frog.

When she was 15-years-old, Cherni was inspired to get into origami making. She is an avid student of John Montroll’s designs.

Cherni will be the leading artist for the ‘Imiloa exhibit. She has artistic experience in collaboration with artists from around the world and has created everything from tiny miniature pieces to large life-sized sculptures.

Nguyen Hung Cuong, a Vietnamese artist who lives in Hanoi; Terry Nicolas, a professional origami artist from France; Steven Epstein, a Big Island resident; and local artist Shannon Nakaya will also have their work on display in the exhibit.

General admission fees to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center will also cover admission to the “EPIC ORIGAMI” exhibit and the “Between the Folds” show.

Tickets cost $17.50 for adults and $9.50 for children. Kama’aina prices are available and ‘Imiloa members receive free admission.

In addition to the July 5 opening festivities, Cheri will return to ‘Imiloa on July 11 and September 19 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to teach workshops on origami folding. Admission to the workshops costs $25 for members and $35 for non-members. To register for a workshop date, visit ‘Imiloa’s front desk or call 969-9703. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult.