Kahilu Theatre to Exhibit Artwork by Bernice Akamine

Photo courtesy of Bernice Akamine.

Kahilu Exhibits will present a solo exhibition by the nationally recognized artist, Bernice Akamine, from Aug. 3 to Sept. 8, 2017. The exhibit features a new series of sculptures entitled “Hinaluaʻikoʻa,” as well as Akamineʻs traveling installation “Kalo.”

Akamine is a native Hawaiian, sculptor and installation artist based on Hawai‘i Island. She uses a variety of media in her work to address environmental and cultural issues, as well as Hawaiian sovereignty and the overthrow of the Hawaiian government.

The exhibit will open with a reception and artist’s walk-through on Thursday, Aug. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. with light pūpū and a no host bar.

“Hinaluaʻikoʻa” includes a stunning assortment of suspended and free-standing beaded sculptures inspired by traditional Hawaiian fish traps and the beauty of marine life–an inspiration born of the ongoing political discord and a desire for releasing tension. Ultimately, Akamine said the new series is most informed by the Hawaiian creation chant, the Kumulipo.

Photo courtesy of Bernice Akamine.

Akamineʻs traveling installation, “Kalo,” consists of 87 individual kalo plants of varying sizes made from stone and newsprint. The installation was created with the support of the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation, and has traveled to Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, and Hawaiʻi Island.

“This installation is a non-confrontational way to remind Hawaiians to be proud of their stand for Indigenous sovereignty and to stand up and be counted once again, as there is still much to be done and still much that can be lost,” said Akamine.

Akamine earned an M.F.A. in the sculpture and glass program at the University of Hawai‘i and completed graduate work in natural resource management at Central Washington University. She is also a cultural practitioner with deep roots in Kapa and waiho‘olu‘u, Hawaiian natural dyes. Akamine has exhibited her work in numerous solo and group exhibitions, both nationally and internationally.

Kahilu Galleries are free to the public and open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and during all theater performances. For more information, visit www.kahilutheatre.org or call (808) 885-6868.