An exhibit of new work by acclaimed wildlife artist John Dawson opens at the Gallery on Saturday, January 10 with a reception from 5-7pm.. This exhibition of paintings reflects his fresh observations of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The exhibit will continue through February 15.

Many will recognize Dawson’s art work from the Nature in America stamp series created for the United States Postal Service. The final installment of this series issued on September 1, 2010 – a depiction of The Hawaiian Rainforest – is a reflection of the island beauty Dawson and his wife Kathleen have enjoyed as residents of Hilo for the past 20 years.

Dawson is no stranger to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. His artwork and illustrations accompany park maps and interpretive signs, along with a stunning collection of art on display inside the renovated Kilauea Visitor Center.

Regarding the upcoming exhibit Dawson states, “I love being in the field so we kept going out and taking in whatever was interesting and inspiring. From all that effort the new show developed and opened up on its own. As an artist, it is always exciting to still be discovering and learning. That curiosity seemed to propel this new art. I’m happy that this new work is helping to expand my vision and to look further under the sea and into the clouds and beyond.”

Meet Dawson personally on January 17 from 1-3pm. Enjoy a rare look into the artist’s personal sketchbooks. On February 7, from 1-3pm, Dawson and Interpretive Park Ranger Jay Robinson will discuss the exhibition subject matter, the history of Volcanoes National Park as well as their working relationship together over many years.