ʻEclectic Diversityʻ Exhibit to Feature Local Artists at Wailoa Center

“Altar of the Ohia,” a piece by Hawai‘i Island artist Elizabeth Miller, will be featured in the exhibit. Courtesy photo of Wailoa Center.

The Wailoa Art Center will present a unique art exhibition entitled “Eclectic Diversity” from Jan. 3 to 25, 2018.

An opening reception for the showcase featuring master artists from around Hawai‘i island will be held on Friday, Jan. 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. The public will have a chance to meet the artists in person during the free event with light refreshments.

“This rare presentation offers several pieces on display from some of the very best talent on the Big Island who specialize in a diverse range of media,” said Michael Cromwell, curator of the “Eclectic Diversity” exhibition. “I invited these artists to join me in displaying their depth of talent. The newly remodeled Wailoa Center is the largest exhibition space on the Big Island and is the perfect venue to showcase more than 10 pieces of art from each individual artist in one location. It’s also a perfect opportunity for art enthusiasts to acquire collectible art from among a variety of media offerings. Art lovers and collectors from the West side of the island are very much encouraged to take the time to make the trip to the Wailoa Center and view this exhibition while it’s available this January.”

The 11 featured artists include: Michael Cromwell of North Kohala: Kate and Will Jacobson of Kona; Nora Yamanoha of Holualoa; Ethan Froney of Waimea; Joseph Ruesing, and Fair and Evan Jenkins of Hilo; Phan Barker, Elizabeth Miller and Ken Goodrich of Volcano; Scott Hare of Mountain View; and John Mydock of Pāhoa.

The works of art include fiber, mixed media, blacksmithing, video production, ceramics, glass, metal, wood carving, wood turning, digital and print making.

Many of the exhibit artists are featured in the permanent collection purchased by the Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, and in private collections worldwide.

Now in its 51st year, the Wailoa Center is a Division of State Parks, Department of Land and Natural Resources and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Located at 200 Piopio Street in Hilo, the Center is closed on Saturday, Sunday and state holidays. For more information, visit wailoacenter.com or call (808) 933-0416.