Co-Founder of HBF emphasizes importance of art

Honolulu Biennial Foundation

Isabella+Hughes%2C+co-founder+of+HBF.

Eileen Wang

Isabella Hughes, co-founder of HBF.

Hughes gives a presentation on an upcoming event.
Anela Chavez
Hughes gives a presentation on an upcoming event.

“Being born and raised here, I have a natural affinity… and deep deep interest in promoting our artist but also sharing our culture and the ideas that contemporary artists are talking about…” said Co-founder of the Honolulu Biennial, Isabella Ellaheh Hughes.

On September 10, Hughes gave information on the Honolulu Biennial that will occur from March to May of 2017. With about 30-35 artists participating in this contemporary art event, such as Keith Tallett, Brett Graham, Yuki Kihara, Charlton Kupa’a Hee and for the first time in Hawaii, Yayoi Kusama. The HBF expects about 42,500 out-of-state visitors and 49.7 million in economical increase. This event will offer STEAM programs to the youth. “…creativity and being able to have a visual vocabulary…really really important…” said Hughes.

Hughes began her interest in art when she was young. She attended Punahou High School and went to many museums with her parents. She also considers herself to be a food and beverage entrepreneur since she is the co-founder of Shaka Tea and Lezzetli Ice Cream.

“I do believe that we are really the center for creativity and also where east meets west, it’s a perfect location for artistic talents…” said Hughes with a smile.

Hughes passion for art and the HBF were obvious.