Ai Pōhaku, Stone Eaters: A Must-See Exhibition for Fans of Native Hawaiian Art

Explore the Resilience of Kanaka ʻŌiwi Culture Through Art

Ai Pōhaku, Stone Eaters is a multi-site exhibition of contemporary Kanaka ʻŌiwi art that explores the concepts of perseverance and resistance through creative expression. The exhibition features works by nearly 40 Native Hawaiian artists from across the Islands, working in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, film, and music.

The exhibition is organized by Drew Kahua’āina Broderick, Josh Tengan, and Noelle M.K.Y. Kahanu, and is curated in collaboration with the Pu’uhonua Society, a non-profit organization that works to restore and preserve Native Hawaiian culture.

The exhibition is divided into six thematic sections:

• Ho’oulu: Emergence explores the ways in which Kanaka ʻŌiwi artists have used their work to revitalize and sustain their culture.
• Pōhaku: Stone examines the significance of stone in Kanaka ʻŌiwi culture, and how it has been used in art to represent strength, resilience, and permanence.
• ‘Ōlelo: Language explores the power of language in Kanaka ʻŌiwi culture, and how it has been used in art to express identity, history, and values.
• Mālama: Caretaking looks at the ways in which Kanaka ʻŌiwi artists have used their work to raise awareness of environmental issues and advocate for the protection of the land and sea.
• Ho’okipa: Hospitality celebrates the spirit of aloha and the importance of welcoming visitors.
• Kū: Standing affirms the resilience of Kanaka ʻŌiwi culture and the strength of the Native Hawaiian community.

‘Ai Pōhaku, Stone Eaters is a powerful and moving exhibition that offers a unique perspective on the contemporary Kanaka ʻŌiwi art movement. The exhibition is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Native Hawaiian community, and its message of hope and perseverance is one that is sure to resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.

The exhibition is on view at the following venues:

• Art Gallery at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
• Koa Gallery, Kapiʻolani Community College
• Gallery ʻIolani, Windward Community College
• East-West Center Gallery
• Hōʻikeākea Gallery, Leeward Community College

The exhibition is open to the public and admission is free.

by Honolulu Vibes