PILINA Spotlight on Art 189: Introduction to Hawaiian Art

Students:

Taewoong Cho, Julia Dizy, Cecelia Holland, Sanoe Kelly, Ava Normandin, Malia Ohira, Finn O’Sullivan, Ku’uleihiwahiwa Po’opa’a, Nao Shimoyama, Sheldon Vanderford. and Juyoung Yoo

THE COMMONS GALLERY, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

This course introduces students to Hawaiian perspectives on art, place, and knowledge. Through research, observation, discussion, and creative practice, students explore relationships with ʻāina, kai, one another, and their own moʻokūʻauhau, while engaging origin stories such as the Kumulipo and considering our connection and responsibility to the depths of the ocean.

The Assignment

Students were invited to explore three interconnected areas of inquiry: their own moʻokūʻauhau (genealogy), the expansive genealogical framework described in the Kumulipo, and contemporary concerns surrounding deep-sea nodule mining and its potential impacts on fragile ocean ecosystems. These themes encouraged students to reflect on how identity, responsibility, and environmental stewardship are intertwined.

Throughout the semester, students were also introduced to the practice of kilo, the intentional act of careful observation and awareness of the natural and cultural environments around them. By slowing down to observe land, water, weather, and living systems, students were encouraged to recognize the relationships that connect people to place.

The Method

Students engaged these ideas through research, discussion, and artistic experimentation. Several guest speakers generously shared their ʻike and experiences with the class. In accordance with Hawaiian practice, students created lei specifically for each individual speaker, offering them as gestures of gratitude, respect, and reciprocity for the knowledge shared.

The works presented in this exhibition reflect the students’ responses to these teachings and experiences. Through sculpture and other visual forms, they explore questions of genealogy, relationship, environmental responsibility, and care for the living world.

Together, these works represent the students’ early steps in understanding art as a practice grounded not only in creativity, but in observation, connection, and kuleana.

We extend our sincere mahalo to the following individuals for their generosity in sharing their time, expertise, and perspectives with our students: 

Kamuela Chun, Kumu Hula

Luke Henderson, Artist and BFA Student, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Dr. Jeffrey Drazen, Professor in the Department of Oceanography at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa;

Virginia Tattersall-McGuire, Artist and Graduate Student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa;

Paul Galang, Master Printer, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Kekahi Wahi (Drew K. Broderick and Sancia Miala Shiba Nash).

 

THE COMMONS GALLERY is located on the ground floor of The Art Building. From Dole Street, take East-West Road, turn left to Correa Road, and then turn right for the Art Building.

Hours & Admission

Tuesday–Friday, & Sunday, 12–4 p.m.

Closed Saturdays, Mondays, spring break (March 18-22), and state holidays.

Free admission. Donations are appreciated.

Parking is free on Sundays. Parking fees may apply during weekdays.

For more information, please contact 808.956.6888 and gallery@hawaii.edu