by Kim LaPat, Travel Editor, Emma Spencer Living
With its diverse landscapes, gorgeous natural scenery, and rich cultural history, it’s no wonder the Big Island of Hawaii has such a plentiful and diverse variety of local art. You’ll find art galleries and museums throughout the island, all with unique touches inspired by the area’s surroundings.
Volcano Village
Volcano Village has what is perhaps the state’s highest ratio of artists—and it’s no wonder, with the lush rainforest as its backdrop and its proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. At Volcano Art Center, located within the national park, the works of hundreds of local artists are on exhibit and available for purchase. As one might imagine, volcanoes and lava feature prominently in many of the works. There are also Hawaiian dance and music classes, plus a variety of demonstrations and special events showcasing local talent and encouraging creativity. Be sure to stop in at Volcano Art Center when you’re staying with us at Volcano Village Lodge—there’s something for everyone, whether you’re buying or just browsing.
Hilo
Another place where local artisans are celebrated is in nearby Hilo, where many of the art galleries themselves are in historic buildings steeped in Hawaiian history. Paintings, glass work, sculpture, and more can be found in the quaint and eclectic shops. Also in Hilo is the East Hawaii Cultural Center, a former police station that is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Two art galleries and a performance space are housed here along with the Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art, which features several permanent displays along with rotating exhibits that highlight local artists. This artistic hub also celebrates the performing arts, including theater and dance.
Kona Coast
(Photo of Holualoa Gallery by IIona Open View Photography) On the Kona Coast, coffee is king, naturally—but so too is art. In Holualoa, art galleries are abundant and spectacular, especially with the striking background of the coffee plantations in the mountains. The town’s annual event, the Coffee and Art Stroll, merges the area’s two most celebrated commodities. When you’re on the Kona coast, you’ll not only be able to sip the finest locally-grown coffee in the world, but also take in an array of local art that will impress and inspire. (Photo of Holualoa Gallery by IIona Open View Photography) Throughout the island of Hawaii, you’ll find charming local art galleries and shops that showcase unique works in a variety of mediums. With so much history, culture, and beautiful organic scenery, the Big Island is the perfect location for some of the world’s best art.
Volcano Village has what is perhaps the state’s highest ratio of artists—and it’s no wonder, with the lush rainforest as its backdrop and its proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. At Volcano Art Center, located within the national park, the works of hundreds of local artists are on exhibit and available for purchase. As one might imagine, volcanoes and lava feature prominently in many of the works. There are also Hawaiian dance and music classes, plus a variety of demonstrations and special events showcasing local talent and encouraging creativity. Be sure to stop in at Volcano Art Center when you’re staying with us at Volcano Village Lodge—there’s something for everyone, whether you’re buying or just browsing.
Volcano Village has what is perhaps the state’s highest ratio of artists—and it’s no wonder, with the lush rainforest as its backdrop and its proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. At Volcano Art Center, located within the national park, the works of hundreds of local artists are on exhibit and available for purchase. As one might imagine, volcanoes and lava feature prominently in many of the works. There are also Hawaiian dance and music classes, plus a variety of demonstrations and special events showcasing local talent and encouraging creativity. Be sure to stop in at Volcano Art Center when you’re staying with us at Volcano Village Lodge—there’s something for everyone, whether you’re buying or just browsing.
Another place where local artisans are celebrated is in nearby Hilo, where many of the art galleries themselves are in historic buildings steeped in Hawaiian history. Paintings, glass work, sculpture, and more can be found in the quaint and eclectic shops. Also in Hilo is the East Hawaii Cultural Center, a former police station that is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Two art galleries and a performance space are housed here along with the Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art, which features several permanent displays along with rotating exhibits that highlight local artists. This artistic hub also celebrates the performing arts, including theater and dance.