The Waimea Arts Council invites the island community to a special reception at the Firehouse Gallery in Waimea on Sunday, July 31 from noon until 3 p.m., 2022. The reception will honor artists chosen for Huaka’i, The Hawaii Island Juried Art Competition and Exhibition. This show features art that espresses the meaning of Huaka’i, as a journey, a voyage, or path taken, often with a purpose to gain a deeper understanding of oneself, culture, ancestors, or one’s soul.

At 1 p.m. judges Stephen Freedman and Philippe F. Nault will talk story about their own personal journeys, discussing what they look for when judging a show as well as impressions of the Huaka’i Show. They will respond to questions from the audience.
Many of the artists will be available to talk about their works and their vision for Huaka’i.
“The goal of Huaka’i is to showcase fine art works by artists on the Big Island,” said Amaury Saint-Gilles, WAC board member. “Of the 74 works entered into the competition, 41 were selected. Cash prizes were awarded to 1st,2nd & 3rd place. The judges spent hours making their decision.”
Potter, sculptor Stephen Freedman has been working out of his Big Island studio since 1991. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout the United States and in Japan, China, and Australia as well as numerous pieces he’s produced over the past five decades hanging in public and private collections.
Philippe F. Nault came to Hawai’i in 1992 and is well-known for his abstract paintings. His work has been shaped by the primeval forces of nature and his exploration of Hawaiian indigenous ontology. They address a perception of the world in general, a Landscape of the Self as a core concept of his artistic career.