Art exhibit explores Mauna Loa as more than a geological structure

A free art exhibit reveals 36 views of Mauna Loa through a diverse range of interpretations at the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center.

The exhibit takes inspiration from the iconic series, “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji” by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. Unlike Hokusai’s original series, which was rendered entirely through woodblock prints, this exhibition showcases artwork across a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, video, photography, and installation.

Curated by Andrezej Kramarz and juried with Kanani Daley and Stephen Freedman, “36 Views of Mauna Loa” uses a multiplicity of forms to allow for a broader and more layered conversation around Mauna Loa as a sacred and powerful volcano.

“Mauna Loa is not just a geological structure; it represents cycles of destruction and renewal, tradition and transformation,” Kramarz said. “It is an emblem of elemental forces that shape the landscape and the human psyche.”

Through this exhibition, artists engage with themes of resilience, reverence, and change, using the volcano as a metaphor for broader concerns, including ecological balance, identity, and the profound connection between land and diverse community.

Some of the featured artists include Abigail Romanchak, Avalon Paradea, Cheri Groom, Clayton Amemiya, Coco Cohen, Daniel Sheinfeld Rodriguez, Kamran Samimi, Leslie Gleim, Michael Shewmaker, Nainoa Rosehill, Nicole Parente-Lopez, Patrick Warren, Philippe Nault, Roberta Griffith, Rodrigo Diego Manzano Pérez, Solomon Enos, Scott Yoell, and Sue Tanaka.

The exhibit will be on display until Friday, June 12. Visitors can explore the gallery for free every week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.