Press Releases

July 22, 2010 - Review of the Kaluanui History Room Blessing MAUI NEI By RON YOUNGBLOOD, For The Maui News POSTED: July 22, 2010 A couple of hours before sunset, the sun's slanting rays crowned the head of a tall Chinese fan palm in gold. Halemanu - he uses just his first name - stood off to one side of the enclosed lanai, playing and singing a soft accompaniment to the "Kaluanui Experience Celebration." The art organization Hui No'eau was opening its history room. Walking into the modest room behind the entrance desk trips motion-sensor lights illuminating a gallery of family photographs, an glass-cased exhibit of Ethel Baldwin's metal work and a collection of her no-nonsense letters. Ethel and Harry Baldwin had the house - it's too graceful and somehow too fragile to be a mansion - built in 1917. Famed architect and Maui boy C.W. Dickey designed the home. There are Mediterranean influences but every line of the design pays homage to island sensibilities. For a couple of decades, Kaluanui was also a place where the laughter of grandchildren echoed across parklike grounds while they romped with packs of family dogs and explored a variety of outbuildings, including stables for Harry Baldwin's much-loved horses. A week ago, Hui No'eau combined the past by blessing the history room and the future by hanging a youth art exhibition that runs through July 31. More than 200 youth took part in the Hui's summer program, turning out multicolored creations of all sorts. The young artists created works that go beyond reality. Too often the natural imagination of the young is killed during the journey from wide-eyed observer to sober adult. The Hui attempts to nurture the imagination and skill necessary for artistic expression. Kaluanui played a part in Hawaiian history. Literally, the name means "big pit," probably a reference to Maliko Gulch, which runs behind the estate. It is said that the pig god in charge of rain forests, Kama-pua'a, was born in the area. Kaluanui played a part in Maui's plantation history. Circa 1850, Robert Wood and A.H. Spencer started East Maui Plantation and built a sugar mill on a preserved site near the entrance to Kaluanui. Harry Baldwin's father, Henry Perrine Baldwin, bought the property in 1885. Eventually, the estate became part of Maui Agriculture Co. and then of the spun-off Maui Land & Pineapple Co. run by son-in-law J. Walter Cameron and grandson Colin. The Hui's history exhibit occupies what was Harry Baldwin's home office. Hui No'eau was created by Ethel Baldwin, her daughter Frances Cameron and 20 others as a working group of artists in 1934. She ran the organization and a host of social service projects from a desk in the enclosed lanai where a pupu table sat during last week's celebration. A sign on her desk said "Do It Now." At the entrance to the house, celebrants gathered for the blessing of the new history room. The Rev. Kealohou Alika and Caroline Killhour presided. The Baldwins' granddaughter, Maizie Cameron Sanford, untied the maile lei. Then it was back to the lanai to listen to Halemanu's jazz-tinged renditions of island favorites. He'd forsaken his usual Thursday night gig at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua to play for the event. The caretakers of the house, buildings and grounds - Miguel Rivas and Omega Reyes - circulated among the invited guests. Rivas, an artist in his own right, talked about his passion. Reyes, a keiki o ka 'aina, talked about the restoration of the grounds and his love of Herb Kane's thoroughly researched paintings illustrating the origins and history of Hawaii. It took a little herding to get the participants out of the house and onto the lawn around a reflecting pool. There they applauded John Hoxie Jr. when he said the Hui was solvent. It hadn't been easy. At first, the group had a $1-a-year lease on the property granted by Colin Cameron. When new management of ML&P took control, the group came close to being evicted in 2005.A furious fundraising campaign resulted in raising more than $3.5 million and buying the property with the public's support. The program finished with eminent arborist Ernie Rezents talking about Kaluanui's huge Norfolk pine tree and Sanford relating anecdotes from her childhood. The graceful gathering melted into the night. The sun had set, but not on Ethel Baldwin's Hui No'eau or her home. April 14, 2010 - HCF Supports 2010 Artist in Residence Program Hui No‘eau is pleased to announce its Summer 2010 Artist in Residence program, made possible by a recent grant through Hawai‘i Community Foundation’s Laila Twigg-Smith Art Fund. In a jointly developed month-long program, Oakland, CA-based Favianna Rodriguez and Jersey City, NJ-based Orlando Reyes will present “The Politics of Paper/ Many Stories, Many Voices,” a case study about how artists can collaborate with non-arts community groups to develop messages around social justice. Program elements include building relationships with fellow HI-based nonprofit organizations to identify a socially relevant topic that will inspire hands-on visual arts workshops, panel discussions, professional development for Hawaii-based artists and classroom teachers, and a culminating 6-week public exhibition. Named by UTNE Magazine as a “leading visionary artist” in the United States, artist /author/entrepreneur Favianna Rodriguez is renown for her vibrant posters dealing with social issues as well as her leadership in establishing innovative institutions that promote equality and engage new audiences in the arts. As President and co-founder of design firm Tumis, Rodriguez travels extensively to consult with organizations interested in using visual communications and new technologies to promote community building and social change. In 2003, Rodriguez co-founded the Taller Tupac Amaru printing studio to foster resurgence in the screen-printing medium. She is co-founder of the EastSide Arts Alliance (ESAA), a cultural institution dedicated to training young artists in the tradition of arts activism. Rodriguez has lectured widely on the use of art in political engagement and the work of artists who, like herself, are bridging the community and museum, the local and international. Founding Director of the critically acclaimed Jersey City-based 58 Gallery, painter, curator and arts entrepreneur Orlando Reyes has produced solo shows and private commissions in fine art metropolises, including Copenhagen, Brussels, Paris, and Florence. A centerpiece in the New Jersey/New York contemporary art scene, the 58 Gallery has hosted over 200 artists in more than 200 shows with the primary focus of filling the gap created by the elitism of the New York art market, prioritizing creativity and innovation. An early exposure to large-scale public painting via graffiti inspired his 1988 series of socially engaged, street-based art campaigns exploring AIDS, art censorship, and corporate irresponsibility. His love for and mastery of color and pigment eventually led him into an abstract and non-linear approach, culminating in the complete abandonment of brushes. Reyes’ present day painting approach incorporates the use of eyedroppers as a way of pursuing an organic, pigment-centered style. His cultural, urban, and nomadic roots resonate throughout his art. Reyes’ work continues to be exhibited in galleries, museums and in public, both nationally and internationally. Visit our programs page soon to learn more about how you can participate in this exciting program. April 1, 2010 - Hui & Kamali'i Thank Kind Heart Free Spirit Fdn. Over the course of the last year, representatives from both Hui No‘eau and Kamali‘i Elementary have worked together closely to develop and implement strategies for integrating the visual arts into Kamali‘i’s core curriculum, a public school in Kihei that until now had no formalized arts programming. A planning committee comprised of Kamali‘i Principal Mary Auvil, community development & grants volunteer Yvonne Biegel, Susan Erickson of the Parent Community Networking Center, Hui Children’s Program Coordinator Kelly McHugh and Hui Executive Director Caroline Killhour developed a pilot program last spring that would use the visual arts as a catalyst for learning history and science lessons currently being taught in 2nd grade classrooms. The resulting 10-session program engaged 50 second-grade students and 2 classroom teachers in an age-appropriate, sequential based arts curriculum integrating the visual arts into subjects of life cycles and anthropology. “My students absolutely loved the program,” remarked Kamali‘i classroom teacher Debi Clapper, “I look forward to working with the Hui on a larger scale. The teaching artist was amazing!” Based on the success of the pilot, the program doubled its reach in the fall, creating partnerships between 2 Hui teaching artists and 4 Kamali‘i classroom teachers and extending arts education to both the 2nd and 4th grades. With themes ranging from Inuit Indians, the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum and Hawaiian culture and anthropology, students built relationships between native Hawaiian environments, indigenous peoples, and world history to allow the discovery of their artistic hand. “It is through the arts and our partnership with the Hui that we have been able to change and enhance the learning experience for each child,” remarks Kamali‘i Principal Mary Auvil. “My hope is that integrating the arts into our curriculum will change the learning experience for students and teachers alike. While I believe it is imperative that schools focus on helping each student meet grade level standards and pass the Hawaii State Assessment, the obvious bears mentioning: passing the Hawaii State Assessment does not define education.” With phase III plans to extend these opportunities into an after-school program, the goal is to enable access to a high-quality arts education to all interested children living in the Kihei community, even those not currently enrolled at Kamali‘i Elementary. The Hui wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to the Kind Heart Free Spirit Foundation for making this program possible. Because if their vision and generosity, we look forward to continuing to develop arts enrichment programs for all children living in Maui’s Kihei community. March 5, 2010 - Hui Partners with Kalama Intermediate Tuesday, March 9th will mark a very special day for 50 7th grade Kalama students, volunteers and members of the Hui No‘eau youth outreach team as the last coat of paint is applied to a set of murals that have been 2 months in the making. In recognition of Kalama Intermediate’s 25th anniversary, Principal John Costales and Classroom Teacher Marilyn Morikawa approached the Hui to brainstorm on ways to celebrate the cultural diversity and history of the school. A project entitled “We All Belong,” was developed over the course of 2 weeks of planning between Kalama and Hui No‘eau Children’s Program Coordinator Kelly McHugh. Over the course of 15 in-school visits, 2 classes of students became responsible for the planning, development and implementation of 2 large-scale murals on the grounds of the school, led by Morikawa and Hui teaching artist Nathalie Nunez. “Marilyn has been such a supportive partner,” says Nunez, “we were both able to lend our individual strengths to the project and, together, found ways to incorporate a piece of every students’ individuality and creativity in the final pieces.” When asked about working on the grounds she says, “We have crowds of students who are in recess watching everything we are up to, many want to help that are not presently part of the program. There are lots of kids who want to sign up for art classes after seeing what they are capable of doing.” The project was made possible by individual donations through the Hui’s “Raise the Paddle” auction at both the 2009 and 2010 Art Affair benefits, as well as the gracious support of Jim Sanders of Jim Sanders Reality, Inc. “We feel very fortunate to be able to work at this scale in our community,” says Hui Executive Director Caroline Killhour, “By continuing to raise these vital outreach funds, we are able to offer scholarships, supplies and the guidance of high-caliber artists that help enable access to the visual arts to every interested child across Maui.” "What an incredible collaboration to help celebrate our 25th anniversary!” remarks Morikawa, “ the Hui team's expertise and enthusiasm has driven this project from idea to synthesis to production- my students and I have learned so much. Thank you, Nathalie and Hui No‘eau, for your contribution to Kalama Intermediate School." The murals will be unveiled during the school’s "25 Years – We All Belong" Celebration, scheduled for the morning May 8th, ad will also include a blessing, entertainment and presentation of the Kalama Anniversary Quilt. February 28, 2010 - The Bourbon Street Ball On the evening of Saturday, February 27, Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center celebrated its 18th annual Art Affair to the theme of “The Bourbon Street Ball.” The potential tsunami earlier in the day did not dampen spirits at the Kaluanui estate; over two hundred attendees created a wave of enthusiasm for the arts, raising vital funds in support of the Hui. Dressed in their most festive jazz and Mardi Gras attire, more than 200 artists and community supporters enjoyed delicious Cajun cuisine by Bev Gannon’s Celebrations Catering, live Dixieland Jazz by Raw Silk featuring Kelly Covington and Fulton Tashombe, live and silent auction of fine art and service packages led by expert auctioneer Kip Toner, youth dance performance by Maui Academy of Performing Arts dancers and its established Raise the Paddle auction- this year, in support of Hui youth programs. John W. Hoxie, Jr. was awarded the Board of Directors Recognition Award for his longstanding commitment to and support of the arts center throughout his 7-year volunteer tenure. Maui artist George Allan was awarded the Hui Angel Award in appreciation of his many years of inspiration, volunteerism and dedication to the Hui. Inger Tully, Hui Board Member and Curator of Exhibitions of The Contemporary Museum in Honolulu, offered a heartwarming appeal to event attendees to Raise their Paddles, resulting in a hugely successful $75,000 auction that will benefit youth programs in 2010. “Meeting our Raise the Paddle goal was both an exciting and very emotional experience,” says Kelly McHugh, Children’s Program Coordinator, “We’ve worked so hard over the past year building & strengthening programs that enable access to high-quality arts education to youth from all Maui neighborhoods- from day trips to the Hui to customized classes for children with special needs to partnering with public schools on getting our artists into their classrooms- it’s incredibly rewarding to know that our work has made a difference and that our supporters are so ready & willing to help in this way.” In the spirit of the theme “The Bourbon Street Ball,” the Hui will be donating a portion of the event’s proceeds to New Orleans-based nonprofit “Young Aspirations / Young Artists” whose mission is to empower creative young people to become successful adults via the arts. “We have been so fortunate to sustain and even build our support system during what has been a very challenging year for the nonprofit arts sector here on Maui,” says Hui Executive Director Caroline Killhour, “one can only imagine the added difficulty of trying to raise funds for the arts in New Orleans. We are honored to support a fellow arts education organization in this way and enormously thankful to all of the volunteers and supporters that helped to make this year’s Art Affair such a success.” January 11, 2010 - 2010 Juried Exhibition Raises Bar for Maui Arts On Friday, January 8 nearly 200 individuals gathered at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center to celebrate the opening of its Annual Juried Exhibition. Generously sponsored by Jack & Carolyn Schaefer Gray, Robert & Fran Davidson and Louis & Jolene Cole , this prestigious multi-media arts competition offered an opportunity to view the current work of Hui members as well as participate in topics upon which contemporary minds are engaged. Nationally renowned guest jurors represent respected curators and artists from Maui, Hawai‘i and beyond, offering a different perspective for a unique and fresh show every year. With only 50 pieces selected from 288 entries, the 2010 Annual Juried Exhibition continues to represent a highly competitive and valued program in our visual arts community. This year the Hui was fortunate to welcome distinguished jurors Inger Tully, Curator of Exhibitions at The Contemporary Museum in Honolulu and Theresa Papanikolas, Curator of European and American Art at Honolulu Academy of Arts. “This year’s submissions offered a snapshot of a lively art community and revealed trends as well as outstanding individuals,” remarked Tully, “(During the jurying process,) many of the works made us think, laugh, or wonder, and all raised questions: How was this done, exactly? What was the inspiration? Who is this artist and what is their background? Or simply: What was the artist thinking!?” The Hui is our finest resource in the arts and as a social force, remarks exhibiting artist Sharon Dahl, “the whole community is invited to participate in this mini University of the Arts and the wide support it enjoys is a reflection of a space which has an exquisite form and a continuously evolving and developing function: to allow all to experience the arts. I am grateful to be part of an exhibit to show some of the works of the Hui No`eau membership.” November 21, 2009 - 2009 Wailea Food & Wine Celebration On Friday, November 20th nearly 200 artists, collectors, educators and supporters gathered at Hotel Wailea (formerly the Diamond Hawaii Resort & Spa) for the Hui’s 3rd annual Wailea Food & Wine Celebration, a fundraiser for the arts center and its printmaking program. Sponsored by Chambers & Chambers wine merchants, the event took place on the resort’s Gazebo Lawn, offering breathtaking views during sunset followed by an elegant setting beneath the stars. The evening included fine cuisine by top chefs Chris Kulis of Capische, James Furnish of Five Palms, Eric Arbogast of Cuatro, Ralph Giles of Catering from Soup to Nuts and Cameron Lewark of Spago as well as delectable wines donated by Justin Vineyards & Winery, Shafer Vineyards and Testarossa Vineyards. Celebrated musician Melinda Caroll entertained the crowd while former Hui No‘eau print studio director Paul Mullowney presented special edition prints by Brad Brown, Judy Pfaff and Max Gimblett at specially reduced event prices. Additionally, the Hui’s annual Printmaking Studio Calendar was released, which features 13 original prints by 13 prominent printmaking artists, all of whom donated their work for this praised tradition. “We owe much of the event’s success to Jim Powlan,” says Executive Director Caroline Killhour of the Chambers & Chambers head, who sponsored the event, “Jim’s been involved with Hui No‘eau as a student, devoted open studio participant, exhibitor and successful artist. We sincerely thank him, as well as his wife, Barbara Fong, for their extraordinary support of the event, the Hui and of community arts education on Maui.” October 21, 2009 - Kamehameha First-Graders Take to the Hui On Tuesday, October 21st, 2009, 40 first grade Kamehameha students and 8 parent-volunteers participated in the Hui’s Explore & Discover program during a field trip developed in partnership with Kamehameha teacher Diane Fell. The half-day visit consisted of a guided tour of the Primarily Red exhibition in the space that served as the living and dining room space for Harry & Ethel Baldwin in the early 1900’s, two artist-led workshops in professional artist studio spaces and lunch & play time on the front lawn beneath the hibiscus trees. “This was a wonderful experience for our keiki, and the teaching artists were outstanding- great enthusiasm, knowledge and attitude!” said Diane Fell. “I could see the teachers’ enthusiasm and love for art inspiring the children. Thank you for your strong commitment to arts education,” remarked parent-volunteer Kekai Delmendo. The Hui offers multiple collaboration opportunities like these for schools and community groups. From free tours of the gallery and historic estate to sequential based workshops customized for a particular age-group or special needs to artist residencies, matching funds are available to keep programming affordable. So far this year, more than 300 students have been served on-site through these exposure visits, with 700 more through additional children’s programming. Kihei Charter School’s Virtual-Hybrid Academy teacher Leslie Baldridge brought her class to the Hui earlier this year remarking, “the setting alone brought out the creativity of each student; the teaching artists were clear and concise in their delivery. The program was amazing. The students did not want to leave when the trip was over. Many of them commented the next class day that it was the best field trip that they had ever attended!” August 3, 2009 - Family Day: A Community Celebration of the Arts! On Saturday, August 1st, hundreds of participants gathered at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center to join in the opening of the 2009 Youth Arts Exhibition, Family Day: A Community Celebration of the Arts. Featuring the work of more than 180 campers aged 5-12 as well as 13 teens participating in summer intensives, the Youth Arts Exhibition is an explosion of colorful creativity that shows us all the extraordinary possibilities unlocked by community visual arts education. My 6-year old son came home full of positive words and energy every day,” remarks one parent, “his self-esteem got a huge boost from the positive words and actions of the teachers. He enjoyed all the instructors and as a parent I am very grateful for this program.” The Saturday celebration included a wide range of activities for all ages, including a silly scavenger hunt that guided families throughout the entire estate of Kaluanui and its working artist studios, face painting, silkscreen T-shirt printmaking, kite flying, live music by An Den’s Damien Awai and Eddie Sebala, free giveaways, delicious food and free keiki workshops in the Christopher Gartner Children’s Studio. “We were so thrilled by the level of community support this event produced,” says Executive Director Caroline Killhour, “our young campers were bursting with enthusiasm as they guided their friends and families throughout the gallery to show off their pieces and local businesses really pitched in by offering some fantastic giveaways for our guests. Mahalo to all that made this special day possible. It means so much to our students, their instructors and to the Hui.” July 3, 2009 - Hui Suspends Publishing Program to Focus on Edu. On Thursday, July 2, Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center decided to hang up it’s fine art publishing studio, HuiPress Publications, to focus on strengthening its core mission of providing open access to high quality visual arts educational programs. The decision came as a result of a long-standing analysis of the financial viability of creating and selling artwork amidst the existing economic climate, the outcome of which clearly exhibited a need to focus less on production and more on community engagement. “HuiPress has a strong interest in working with our community to inspire creativity and share the vast knowledge and skill sets we’ve accrued in working with artists in residence, visiting artists, print collectors and arts enthusiasts from across the globe,” says HuiPress Director Paul Mullowney, “HuiPress Publications has a bright future ahead, simply being put on hold until we can get through these trying financial times. We feel fortunate to have a loyal following of students that we can continue to work with as we proceed.” Located in the former Baldwin garage on the upcountry Kaluanui estate of Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center, HuiPress published limited edition prints and multiples by top established and emerging artists with an emphasis on intaglio, photogravure and relief printmaking. Classes & workshops will continue to be offered at affordable rates during each regular Hui session as are jewelry, ceramics, painting, photography and youth programs in fully equipped artist studios. To learn more about specific dates, times and tuition fees, visit www.huinoeau.com July 1, 2009 - Hui No‘eau Names Brunner President On Thursday, June 25, the Board of Directors of Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center elected Jennifer Brunner as the new Board President. Jennifer has served as a member of the Board since 2006. In addition to a strong interest and enthusiasm for the visual arts, Jennifer brings a solid foundation in finance and business development to her new position. With an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington, she is a steadfast entrepreneur who has developed, implemented and sold numerous small businesses. An energetic contributor to the Maui community, Jennifer was a founding member of the Maui Choral Arts Association and currently owns Maui Plumeria Gardens with her husband Doug. She is an active student of the Hui’s ceramics and jewelry programs and devoted mother to her two sons, Nicholas and Zachary, aged 6 and 4, who both enjoy the Hui’s keiki programs. Since joining the Hui, Jennifer has acted as chair of the Art Affair silent auction, the premiere fundraising event for the organization and provided leadership on the Board’s Management Committee, closely overseeing day to day operations prior to the hire of the new Executive Director, Caroline Killhour. She also spearheaded this year’s partnership with the Dowling Community Improvement Foundation, launching the Hui’s Alternative Energy and Efficiency Program with the installation of a photovoltaic array and energy monitoring system at the Ginny & Art McCoy Jewelry Studio. “Hui No’eau is a remarkable organization that brings visual arts and education to Maui,” says Brunner, “As stewards of the historic Kaluanui property, Hui No`eau does an outstanding job of keeping the grounds beautifully maintained and its programs and services accessible to the community.” Jennifer’s tenure as Board President follows that of John Hoxie, who served the Hui in this capacity since 2004. A highly respected community leader, John led the organization through the 2005 purchase of the historic 25-acre Upcountry estate of Kaluanui during its "Save the Hui-Buy Kaluanui" capital campaign and spearheaded the development of the new Ginny & Art McCoy Jewelry Studio and new ceramics program space; these among countless other accomplishments. “John has done a masterful job of recruiting exceptional talent to the board, “remarks Board Member Chris Cowan, “Basically whenever anything needed to happen, from fundraising visits to prospective donors, to calls on government officials, to physically helping maintain and improve grounds and facilities, John volunteered and followed through completely never losing his passion for the organization or his positive attitude. In the history of the Hui, no one has ever served five years in the capacity of board president and only a few have even served two years.” “I’ve been with the Hui throughout a period of great change and growth,” says Hoxie, who will remain a Member of the Board “we’ve grown from a small nonprofit arts organization leasing Kaluanui to taking on ownership of the estate and strengthening its access to the larger community. Jennifer has a lot of experience managing businesses; I have every confidence that she’ll bring in a good deal of expertise to embark on our Master Plan and help us survive through these difficult economic times. We’ve got a great team.” To this end, Jennifer remarks “I look forward to continuing the Hui’s efforts to further strengthen its connection with the Maui community and to maintain the health of the organization in a very tough economy.” June 29, 2009 - Academic Achievement, Cultural Literacy, and FUN! Did you know that children who actively participate in the arts are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, win an award for school attendance, participate in a math or science fair, or be elected to a school class office? Children who actively engaged in the arts are more likely to read for pleasure or perform community service, too, according to a study conducted by Stanford University and Carnegie Foundation For the Advancement of Teaching, Americans for the Arts. Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center wishes to invite you and your young one to participate in its premiere summer arts program: ARTcamp. Located on the beautiful Upcountry estate of Kaluanui, ARTcamp features a wide range of multimedia arts workshops led by highly qualified teaching artists and artist-practitioners. With activities ranging from ceramics, painting, and jewelry making to creative movement, theater, and digital photography, each affordable session of ARTcamp focuses on a whimsical theme to help campers make connections between workshop modules. “My 6-year old son came home full of positive words and energy every day,” said one parent, “His self-esteem got a huge boost from the positive words and actions of the teachers. He enjoyed all the instructors and as a parent I am very grateful for this program.” “My 11-year old was upset everyday during pickup because it meant it was time to go home!” said another parent and participant of the Hui Scholarship program, “of all the camps we have participated in over the years, this camp has been the best- just truly outstanding!” Choose from single day, half-day or full day ARTcamp options, with weekly themes like “My World and Me: Investigations in Hawaiian Culture & Identity” and “Whoosewhatsies, Gadgets and Gizmos: Abstract Experimentation”- you’re sure to find the right experience to provide an avenue for self-expression, personal growth and FUN! Camps run now through August 7th with a Youth Arts Exhibition unveiled on Saturday, August 1st during Family Day: A Community Celebration of the Arts (FREE!) Call the Hui at 572-6560 to register today or visit us online at www.huinoeau.com. June 9, 2009 - A Keiki's Dream Over the course of the last 2 weeks, 5 volunteers from Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center offered hands-on jewelry workshops to an 8-year old girl undergoing her first round of chemotherapy treatment at Maui Memorial Medical Center. The request came through Darby Gill, Executive Director of A Keiki’s Dream. With the mission of empowering a child in crisis to dare to dream and remind everyone that each child is someone special, the program provides a child-directed process to achieve a child’s dream for a day. In this case, that dream was to learn about the art of jewelry making. “This child has been through so much,” says Darby Gill, “when her oncology nurse told me that she was particularly interested in bead making, I saw the Hui as a natural fit to help identify supplies and resources to get her started. I was so happily surprised by the level of involvement they took on by donating materials, time and staff; it did so much to help brighten (the girl’s) life, which is exactly what we aim to do during such crises. They really exceeded expectations.” With workshops lead at the girl’s home by Hui event coordinator and jewelry artist Keri Meyer, longtime Hui teaching artists Jaisy Hanlon & Julie Matheis and open studio users of the new Ginny & Art McCoy Jewelry Studio Mary Grandy & Kira Ferrer, the outreach program served as a defining example of artists coming together to support a community member in need. The Hui offered all supplies in-kind and organized the artists’ time- beyond that, it was a completely volunteer-driven process. “When I was asked to participate in this program there was no hesitation, neither on my part nor that of the other jewelers; it felt like exactly the right thing to do and (the student) knew just what she wanted, which is great from a teaching standpoint. She was terrific to work with, her family was grateful for the service and it felt great to be asked to participate on behalf of the Hui,” said Keri Meyer. May 5, 2009 - Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center Names Killhour E.D. MAKAWAO—Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center’s new executive director is a familiar face to the Maui arts community. On Friday, May 1, Caroline Killhour was elected by the Board of Directors as the new leader of the Hui, having previously served as managing director since 2007. “I’m truly honored by this opportunity,” says Killhour. “Hui No`eau has a tremendously talented and devoted board of directors who are incredibly skilled and committed to the community. The staff is very professional, hard-working, and creative.” Killhour brings to the post a firm business background, experienced educational leadership and a passion for the arts. She earned her BFA—cum laude—from the Tyler School of Art, and an associate degree in design—again cum laude—from the Fashion Institute of Technology. As a post-graduate, she studied at both the Maine College of Art, and in the executive development program of the University of Chicago’s Graduate School of Business. She spent more than ten years as a senior leader at L.L. Bean, directing various areas of the billion-dollar clothing company’s technical design, product research and development; and overseeing a $20 million increase in annual net sales. After she and her husband moved to Maui, she spent a year as executive director of the Art School at Kapalua directing a visiting artist program, galleries, studios, classes and all development and community engagement efforts. An active painter, printmaker and regular contributor to local exhibitions and galleries, Caroline is also an avid artist-practitioner. “I love working with creative people,” she says. “They all have very different points of reference; you have to listen to them, hear what’s really important to them—and also show them how, for example, time spent developing their own engagement efforts can add value to the lives of others and to the overall Maui community.” Since Caroline’s arrival at the Hui, the center has adopted a new strategic plan, added a new jewelry and ceramics studio, expanded its children’s programs—including sending Hui teachers into Kihei public schools—and is developing a master plan for the 25-acre Upcountry property, one that will keep the nonprofit organization funded while increasing community involvement in the arts. “Not only does Caroline have the education and experience in the fine arts, she has a strong business background and solid financial experience. With the current economic situation, it’s even more important to have such a person as the face of the Hui in the community,” says Board President John Hoxie, “Caroline has done such a good job of running the Hui; she has hired some effective new talent and secured a great team of community leaders.” April 20, 2009 - Hui presents 2009 King K High School Arts Showcase Groov’n with Arts & Communication was the motif of the fourth annual King Kekaulike High School arts showcase, held on Friday, April 17th at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center. More than 200 students, friends, family and staff attended this exciting, dynamic event celebrating youth arts. Featuring the music, sculpture, graphic arts, digital media, ceramics, drawing & painting, mixed media, and drama performances of students in the Arts and Communication Career Pathway Program, this year’s subject was the drama programs’ spring play, Groovy, celebrating the 1960’s. The students’ creative work reflected expression of their conceptions of an earlier time period, felt to be a dynamic era of American history that brought forth a new popular aesthetic which continues to inspire current generations through retro-culture. “When I think of the time, expense, dedication, and services provided in-kind by the Hui, including their premier gallery space, a stage with electricity and lighting, paint and hanging supplies, supervisory personnel, scheduled time that might have been lent elsewhere, but instead donated completely free of charge just and only for our school, I realize that words can hardly express what all of this has meant to us over the years,” remarks Robert O’Connor, fine arts teacher at King Kekaulike High School, “Thank you so very much for your time and effort, the levels of which I may never know as you seem to manage everything so effortlessly, but excellently. I know that you feel as rewarded as we do here at school.” Hui No`eau was honored to display the work in a professional venue for the public and families to view throughout the weekend. “It really is exciting to see the work that is being created by these very talented kids under the guidance of these faculty”, says Marcy Lynn, Exhibitions Coordinator at the Hui. “This is my third year of helping set this up and it just keeps growing in scope as well as talent.” April 8, 2009 - 2nd Annual Jewelry As Fashion Luncheon Scheduled On Wednesday, May 6, 2009, Maui’s most prominent jewelry artists will gather at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center to showcase their latest work, talk about their process and inspiration, and collaborate with expert choreographer André Morisette as families, collectors, enthusiasts and others enjoy the chic ambiance, music and fashion show that is Jewelry as Fashion. “We are delighted to continue this program offering Hui jewelers a unique opportunity to exhibit their work in a dynamic, chic environment while integrating an educational component through which they can talk about their latest pieces. Last year we welcomed parents looking for something special for their new graduates, families browsing for Mother’s Day, collectors looking to expand, and faces new & old to the Hui. Jewelry as Fashion truly offers something for everyone,” says Caroline Killhour, Director of Hui No`eau. The intimately chic luncheon consists of a fully choreographed, emceed fashion show, music, delectable gourmet lunch, and gallery exhibition exclusively featuring jewelry created by Hui artists in the Hui’s newly renovated Ginny and Art McCoy Jewelry Studio. The event takes place on Wednesday, May 6th from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center in Makawao. Seating is very limited for this event; reserve your place today by calling (808) 572-6560 or visit www.huinoeau.com to learn more! March 1, 2009 - Hui Artwork Graces the Cover of Sports Illustrated The Hui would like to congratulate 16-year old Talia Gangini for her achievement as youngest individual to have work featured in the fashionable Sports Illustrated Magazine Swimsuit Edition. “After learning how to wire wrap at age 12, my family encouraged me to sell my work at local shops like Nuage Bleu and Maui Bead Shack. I made some small sales and felt encouraged to take my craft to the next level, so I enrolled In Julie Matheis’ Beginning Jewelry class for teens during my Freshman year in High School. Julie taught me everything I know; the skills and techniques I learned from her helped take my work to a whole new level. Since then, I have participated in the Hui’s open studio program every session, working closely with both Julie & JB (Raye). Each has significantly impacted my work, giving me the skills and confidence to submit my work to Sports Illustrated and being featured on the cover as the youngest-ever artist/ jewelry-designer.” Talia now runs her own business, Pashey Designz, featuring pieces created at the Hui’s newly renovated Ginny and Art McCoy Jewelry Studio. Her work combines an array of delicate seashells found on the beaches of Maui with hammered silver and gold. Congratulations Talia! For more information, visit www.taliagangini.com. February 25, 2009 - Hui Celebrates “Bollywood: An Evening in India" On the evening of Saturday, February 21, nearly 300 artists, collectors, arts enthusiasts and supporters gathered at Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center to celebrate the 2009 Art Affair gala & benefit auction: Bollywood: An Evening in India to “Raise their Paddles” in support of Maui's young artists. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Hui Youth Programs, including youth-at-risk and special needs programs enabling access to high-quality arts education, foundation arts workshops, free portfolio development programs, collaborations with local schools to integrate arts into the curriculum, and scholarship programs for families unable to afford tuition. These and other youth programs offer a safe and nurturing, rural environment for all to explore, discover, express and create. Transformed into a vibrant world of colorful saris, decadent Indian cuisine by Bev Gannon, music by Manju Chattopattaya and Tania Lounge, Bollywood Dance presented by Darshan Dance Project’s Sarala Dandekar and troupe, a live and silent auction of fine art and service packages led by expert auctioneer Kip Toner, and the joyful company of the Maui arts community, this lively evening delivered quite a memorable experience for all involved. “We were overjoyed by the level of support exhibited at this year’s Art Affair”, remarks Caroline Killhour, Managing Director of Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center, “From the artists that so generously donated their work for auction, the countless volunteers that pitched in, the passion and dedication of our staff and board and the many donors that contributed to our cause, we continue to feel a strong sense of community here at the Hui.” January 1, 2009 - Dowling Company to Sponsor Renewable Energy System Phase I of Hui No'eau Alternative Energy and Efficiency Program to be complete by January 2009 (December 2008, MAUI, HI) The Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center has received a grant of $65,250 from Dowling Community Improvement Foundation for the purchase and installation of a photovoltaic array and energy monitoring system at its new Ginny and Art McCoy Jewelry Studio. Environmentally friendly solar electric panels to be located on the roof of the studio, will meet superior industry ratings and boast a high solar to electrical energy conversion efficiency of up to 22%. These panels will allow Hui No'eau to decrease consumption of polluting fossil fuels and will likely save the center over $300 per month in electricity costs. The visible panels will also serve as a reminder to the Maui community of the precious value of natural resources. JB Guard of Pacific Energy Management has worked closely with Hui No'eau to develop the design plan, which includes thirty-six 200W Sanyo panels and a monitoring system to measure the usage of energy throughout the studio and electricity production by the photovoltaic system. The monitoring system will serve as an educational centerpiece of Hui No`eau’s efforts on sustainability. Guard remarks, “ We appreciate working with the Hui No`eau on this exciting project. This organization touches a large number of students, craftspersons and art enthusiasts on Maui. People will see firsthand how locally-owned entities and non-profit groups can work together to create a long lasting energy system that will allow the Hui to move forward with an increase in programs in the future.“ “Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center is deeply honored by Dowling Foundation’s gift and is grateful for the opportunity to demonstrate respect for the island that has provided the creative influence for countless works of art,” stated Caroline Killhour, managing director of Hui No`eau. Everett Dowling, president of Dowling Company, said, “Dowling Community Improvement Foundation is dedicated to four cornerstones: the environment, education, youth sports programs and native Hawaiian cultural programs. The installation of photovoltaic panels at Hui No`eau represents an achievement that is highly commendable and an inspiration to other non-profit organizations. We are very pleased to have made this project possible.” December 1, 2008 - Art & Soul Benefit Supports Hui No`eau On Saturday, November 29, 2008 nearly 380 guests gathered at Hali‘imaile General Store to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the restaurant owned by Maui's celebrity chef, Beverly Gannon. In addition to commemorating the restaurant's opening in 1988, the evening raised funds for Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center and the Maui Food Bank. The "Art & Soul" benefit featured delicious food by several prominent chefs, music by Fulton Tashombe, Kelley Covington and Kenny Rankin, and a diverse silent auction. While maintaining its friendly and intimate charm, the restaurant became the perfect setting for the gathering of Gannon's and the Hui's many supporters. The substantial donation of $25,000 to the Hui demonstrates the success of the event and signifies the great time had by all. On January 13, 2009, the Hui's Managing Director, Caroline Killhour, was honored to accept the check from Gannon. Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center is grateful for this generous donation, which will continue to nourish the creativity of Maui's artists for many years to come. November 25, 2008 - Art Affair 2009 Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center Presents, “Art Affair 2009”, Saturday, February 21st 2009 at the Hui’s historic Kaluanui location in Makawao. The annual fundraising event’s theme this year is Bollywood, and it is sure to delight the senses. The evening offers a live and silent auction of original art created by some of Maui’s most celebrated artists, sit down dinner, entertainment and full host bar. Tickets are available by calling 572-6560 ext. 33 or online at our website www.huinoeau.com. October 27, 2008 - Announcing Annual Juried Exhibition January 10 – February 10, 2009 Following last year’s successful exhibition held in winter, we are excited to announce the first Hui exhibition of 2009. The annual Juried Exhibition will open January 10 and extend through February 10, 2009. This multi-media exhibition is a great opportunity for all artists, featuring the latest work by members of the Hui No‘eau. Work will include, but isn’t limited to, painting, ceramics, printmaking, sculpture, photography, jewelry, digital imagery, fiber, and wood. For more information, prospectus and entry forms, please visit www.huinoeau.com or contact Marcy at the Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center, 808-572-6560 ext.26. The Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center unlocks creativity through exceptional visual arts education. June 29, 2008 - Kite Culture Takes off at The Hui The sky is not the limit for kite makers at the Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center. It's actually where it all starts. Hawaii artists have teamed up with masters in the kite-making world for "Kites! Kites! And More Kites!" - an exhibition that takes the art form to new heights. In celebrating both the fun and the educational sides of kites, the Hui makes it hard to keep your head out of the clouds. "Kites are a wonderful hook to teach about art, history, science and culture," said master kite maker Scott Skinner. Skinner, a founder of the Seattle-based kite educational nonprofit center, the Drachen Foundation, is visiting the Hui to instruct in the events, along with Nobuhiko Yoshizumi, a world-renowned master kite maker from Kyoto, Japan. For weeks, they've been teaching students what goes into making the kites, the diversity of art found in kites and cultural contexts behind the art form. And the best part: Visitors can participate, too, by making their own or getting one at the Hui during a one-day kite-flying celebration Saturday to kick off the show's start. "This will be a great chance to capture visually stimulating pictures and stories," said Hui Artistic Director Paul Mullowney. "We are excited about the events which are designed to reach a broader segment of the community, drawing people to the Hui and Makawao - hopefully the first in an annual series of events around kites and kite culture." The exhibition, which then continues through July 24, features more than 30 artists from around Hawaii and beyond who have contributed their own handmade kites created just for this event. Artist in residence Susan Robb of Seattle, for example, will explore traditional shapes and themes of Pacific Island fishing cultures and will bring Hawaiian flora into her designs. Yoshizumi, who has been making kites for more than 30 years and teaches the traditional Japanese craft, often creates them using washi, a Japanese paper from the mulberry plant, and spars made from bamboo. On Wednesday, Yoshizumi was instructing children at the tail-end of a kite workshop. "It's awesome," said student Ani Duni, 10. "He's a great teacher." While kites appeal to children of all ages, as well as adults, it's in the teaching that the passion for kites really takes off. "In Japan, kites (are) not just a toy - it's art," Yoshizumi said. Skinner agreed. "You can make an artistic statement between the kite and the sky, the kite and the clouds," he said. "You have a connection to the environment; you have to have an awareness of your surroundings." "In about every human culture there is some kind of kite tradition," Skinner said. In Guatemala, for example, kites become a direct communication with the spirits of ancestors; in New Zealand, they are a way to send messages to the gods. Even in the Hawaiian Island chain, Skinner said, hieroglyphs hold drawings of kites that are several hundred years old. Abstract from The Maui News, June 29, 2008 June 2, 2008 - The Artist and The Kitemaker June 2, 2008 The Artist and The Kitemaker Exhibition opens June 6th and runs through June 29 Artist Nancy Kiefter and Kite maker Greg Kono. On loan from Drachen Foundation, kite maker Greg Kono teamed up with portrait artist Nancy Kiefter to create exciting and contemporary sculptural kites. Join us at the Hui to view these amazing kites on display for the month of June. This is a pre-curser to Kites! Kites! And More Kites! An exhibition which features invited artists and their work on kites to be displayed during the month of July. July 5th is family day at the Hui. Come fly a kite, enjoy a day of activities from 10-2:00 and buy a kite to fly with us. Please check out the Summer Class schedule online or pick up a newsletter at the Hui. The Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center is open10:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Saturday. Admission is free. For exhibition and workshop information call Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center at 572-6560 ext. 26. May 28, 2008 - Ginny and Art McCoy Jewelry Studio Blessing May 28, 2008 Ginny and Art McCoy Jewelry Studio Blessing Public Blessing – Friday May 30, 2008 4:00 – 6:00 This studio has been in the making for over four years with the groundbreaking ceremonies and original blessing having taken place on March 4th, 2004. Generously funded by lead gifts from the McCoy Foundation, Carolyn Schaefer Gray, and Gage Schubert, as well as donations from private donors. The realization of this building marks the beginning of a new era for the Hui The grand daughter of the later Ginny and Art McCoy, Barbara Gartner, will be on hand for the blessing ceremony. The blessing itself will be performed by Rici Conger with a reception to follow. All are welcome, come help us celebrate! We are excited to begin using the studio with classes for summer camp as well as all future jewelry classes. Please visit our website to see what classes are being offered. www.huinoeau.com. The Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center is open10:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Saturday. Admission is free. For exhibition and workshop information call Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center at 572-6560 ext. 33. May 28, 2008 - Ka Lima O Maui partners with the Hui Ricky Sugimoto forms a ceramic piece at Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center last month, part of a program between the Hui and Ka Lima O Maui. Ten people with disabilities in the federally supported Ka Lima Waiver Program spent four weeks working with clay under the direction of Sarah Teed, ceramics instructor for adults and children at Hui. The participants “were able to express their emotions” through the clay, said Anne-Marie Forsythe, Hui programs manager. “They loved it,” added Cassie Bailey, program coordinator and personal assistant at Ka Lima O Maui. “Everybody made something they could take home.” She said that some clients, who tend to be quiet, were creative with their hands. “It was a success” and something they would like to try again in the future, Bailey said. The program was the culmination of support from Ka Lima, the Hui and an anonymous donor. article from Maui News, June 25, 2008 April 29, 2008 - 2008 Jewelry As Fashion Luncheon 1st Annual Hui No’eau Jewelry As Fashion Luncheon This is a limited availability event featuring the breath-taking collection of metal masterpieces from Ethel Baldwin, Ginny McCoy, Claire Sanford, JB Rea and more, showcased in a fun-filled afternoon illustrating the functionality of metal/works. Proceeds will be used to purchase new tools, equipment and supplies for the new Ginny & Art McCoy Jewelry Studio, opening May 30th. Luncheon provided by Paul Lamperelli of Dr. Fedwell’s Catering. Fashion Show to be choreographed by Andre Morissette. For tickets or the opportunity to sponsor this event, please call Steffani Leuteneker in the Development Office at 572-6560 Ext. 33. April 21, 2008 - Hui's New Look Wins Design Award Sae designs won two Pele Awards at the annual Addy Awards of the Hawaii district of the American Advertising Association; and Agape Design, Infographic Design and Gilbert & Associates got one each. The Pele is the top award; 52 were given this year, out of 850 entrants — 251 made the cut to become finalists. Saedene Yee-Ota’s clients for her winners were Roselani Ice Cream in Package Design for “Roselani Tropics”; and Maui Thing in Specialty Advertising for “Maui Thing T-shirt.” She also got two Excellence awards on behalf of Bin 69 in Menu Design and Hui No`eau Visual Arts Center in Advertising for the Arts. Abstract from Maui News, April 21, 2008 April 18, 2008 - Summer Classes, Workshops & Art Camp Summer classes, workshops & art camps are open for registration now. Don't miss your chance at the first picks of a fantastic line up of camps, as well as visiting artist workshops and our tried and true core classes. Contact the registrar at 572-6560 ext. 21 or register online at www.huinoeau.com April 4, 2008 - Spring Classes Starting Spring classes are starting this week and next. Spots are still available so register online!