Aloha,
Auwahi is a very important and successful Upcountry native forest restoration and stewardship project. Auwahi dry forest sanctuary is located 4,000 feet up the south western slope of Haleakala. Many native species, formerly on the brink of extinction are now healthy and thriving on Ulupalakua Ranch land. For the last 18 years, more than 130,000 native trees have been planted by many volunteers. It's a rewarding experience to work with other Volunteers, many of them dedicated Maui Youth.
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Engaging our community artists in environmental preservation brings the outdoors inside in an artful and educational way. The Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center sponsored a show honoring the Auwahi Dry Land Forest. Renowned graphic artist and printmaker, Mazalt from Mexico City, worked in collaboration on a stunning large mural depicting Auwahi destruction and restoration. Mazalt's mural requires time spent to take it all in as it fills the entire small gallery space.
The Hui celebrated Family Day opening the show with Hula presentations in one of Maui's most beautiful upcountry locations. Children were invited to explore the art studios of the Hui with the print studio being a big hit for the curious keiki.
The photo above is an intaglio etching hand colored collage of the lovely orange colored Ohia Lehua blossom that is hanging in the show. The format was 10x10 and the the juried smaller pieces were hung along side dramatic large pieces from invited artists making this a very dynamic show.
It's an honor to be selected for a show and I especially like contributing to environmental preservation efforts. Being able to contribute in any way, large or small is an important part of Hawaii's restoration awareness and efforts.
With Aloha,
Cherie