The Volcano Art Center (VAC) proudly announces an expansion of sculptural works titled Gathering Light at the Niaulani Sculpture Garden, located at VAC’s Niaulani Campus (19-4074 Old Volcano Rd.) in Volcano Village. The new works open on Sunday, June 7th. Artists with works selected for this juried exhibition include Emsy, Ingrid Fregeau, Renate Jaworska, and Patrick Sarsfield. The collection also features a community sculpture coordinated by Elizabeth Miller. The Niaulani Sculpture Garden provides a space for Hawai`i’s talented sculptors to share their works. The dynamic interplay of sunlight, mist, and rain that is Volcano’s variable weather, against a backdrop of old-growth ‘ōhiʻa – koa rainforest, provides the ideal setting for outdoor sculptures. Inspired by the unique nature of Kīlauea, the sculptural works are enhanced with with a sense of place by the thoughtful design of landscape architect David Tamura.
The Gathering Light outdoor exhibition works were selected by sculptor Randall Shiroma and ceramist Emsy. The five new sculptures explore the dynamic play of light and shadow with other environmental elements, while also exploring the garden’s role in “gathering light” for growth and life. VAC continues to honor the life giving light of the Hawaiian sun and rain forest with this collection of outdoor sculptures. The public is invited to attend the opening reception on June 7th, from 4-6pm. Kumu Keala Ching will open the event with a blessing followed by hula performed by members of hālau Ke ‘Olu Makani o Mauna Loa. Light snacks and refreshments will be served.