31st annual ‘Trash Show’ kicks off this week

Courtesy photo Ira Ono, founder of “The Trash Show: Hawaii Artists Recycle,” returns to jury this year’s show at the East Hawaii Cultural Center.
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Ira Ono, founder of “The Trash Show: Hawaii Artists Recycle,” returns to jury the 31st edition of one of East Hawaii’s longest-running annual arts events.

The show runs today through Oct. 25 at East Hawaii Cultural Center in downtown Hilo, beginning with a gala opening from 5:30-7 p.m. today, Oct. 4, followed by a multimedia presentation by Ken Goodrich starting at 7:30 p.m. in EHCC’s upstairs Kahua ‘Elua Theatre.

Ono’s roots in recycled art go back to his childhood in New York, when he used to scrounge “treasures” for his mom’s antique shop. He was already known for his own recycled art collages and “trash art” jewelry before he moved to the Big Island. He started The Trash Show in 1988 to give other island artists a way to showcase original works made from recycled materials.

The show, Ono says, “reminds people that we’re living on an island with limited resources.”

The exhibit proved so popular that Ono was invited to create similar shows on Maui and Oahu.

The opening reception is free and open to the public. The exhibit can be viewed during regular gallery hours from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday until Oct. 25.

“An Exploration of Light, Sound and Spirit” is a presentation of seven videos synthesizing music and projected imagery by Goodrich of Hawaii Photo Retreat.

Walking into a sunlit forest, gazing upon a turquoise sea or hearing the strains of a haunting melody or the wind in the trees can transport people other realms, out of the bounds of time and place. Using music from many cultures and images ranging from luminescent landscapes to microscopic crystal formations, Goodrich’s multimedia explorations are the celebration of the spirit that animates all beings.

Goodrich also will speak about the inspirations of his work that give form to his unique style of non-narrative light and sound experiences.

Cost to attend the multimedia presentation is $15 general admission, $12 for seniors and children. Tickets will be sold at the door only.

Goodrich’s career has included the design and implementation of large-scale scenic projection, audio and lighting systems for live events and televised broadcast, including work throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America.

East Hawaii Cultural Center is located at 141 Kalakaua St. in Hilo. For more information, call 961-5711, visit www.ehcc.org or email to admin@ehcc.org.