Seven renowned artists recently completed six large-scale, sustainability and Hawaii Island-themed murals throughout Downtown Hilo.
Seven renowned artists recently completed six large-scale, sustainability and Hawaii Island-themed murals throughout Downtown Hilo.
Artists painted — through rain and shine — Oct. 17-24.
The murals were driven by Temple Children, a local arts and sustainability organization that coordinates projects to strengthen communities, promote social and environmental innovation and incite positive global change.
The October mural series is the third public art activation by Temple Children aimed at beautifying and revitalizing the Downtown Hilo community.
During the visiting artists’ stay, all were immersed in Hawaii Island culture, educated on local food sustainability and fed nearly 100 percent locally sourced on-island fare. In addition to painting, artists participated in a lo‘i restoration workday in Waipio Valley organized by local nonprofit Pohaha I Ka Lani. Kilauea EcoGuides led an educational hike to the lava flow before the artists’ departure.
Completed murals can be viewed at:
• Hilo Backpacker’s Hostel, Waianuenue Avenue, artists Rick Hayward and Emily Devers.
• Agasa Furniture Store, Ponahawai Street, artist Yoskay Yamamoto.
• Downtown KTA Super Stores, Keawe Street, artist Kai Kaulukukui.
• Former Ebesugawa Flower Shop, Furneaux Lane, artist Jet Martinez.
• Hana Hou Hilo, Bayfront, artist Brandy Serikaku.
• Nikisa Properties Building, Ponahawai and Kinoole streets, artist Sam Yong.