“Middle of Now and Here,” the theme of the 2017 Honolulu Biennial, is the celebration of Hawaii’s unique culture through contemporary art. The biennial, which takes place in various locations across Oahu from March 8^th to May 8^th, features 30-35 local and international artists expressing their creativity through visual, culinary and performing arts. This event puts highlights on Pacific works, especially Hawaii’s commentary on environmental issues and traditions.

The director and co-founder of the Honolulu Biennial, Isabella Hughes, has given artists in Hawaii the opportunity to expose their culture to other countries around the world. Hughes also encourages students to get involved in the Biennial so they can learn about contemporary artwork in the pacific through events like the Kusama Coloring Contest and the Zine program.

Geographically, Hawaii is isolated. Hughes believes that art in Hawai’i has more to it than stereotypes generated from the outside. “Contemporary and visual art aren’t the first thing people think of,” says Hughes “in Hawaii we’re quite remote, were removed, so by bringing in this international arts festival, we’re able to be produced to different ideas and really foster and engage culture diplomacy and exchange for hopefully more and ultimately peaceful world.”

The Honolulu Biennial has encouraged people to discuss art culture in Hawaii. “When you mention local art people are lost,” says UH Manoa grad student, Evon Lee.

With the sharing of cultures during the Biennial, future generations in Hawaii have a chance to connect through contemporary art.