Hawai’i Sea Grant’s annual science-art exhibit opens, merging science and art: Maui Now

A new exhibit brings attention to the pressing issue of marine debris impacting Hawaii’s coastlines and ecosystems. The third annual art and science exhibition Refuse REFUSE takes place at ARTS at Marks Garage in Honolulu’s historic Chinatown district and runs from November 1st to 23rd. It is organized by the Sea Grant College program of the University of Hawaii.

In collaboration with the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project and Hawaii Pacific University’s Marine Debris Research Center, “Refuse REFUSE” features a dynamic collection of artwork by 15 local artists, seven selected students from Kau High School and Pahala Elementary School who participated in a youth art competition. and two classrooms from Kipapa Elementary School and Voyager Public Charter School. The opening night will provide an opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and listen to live music by Sarah Wu on November 1st from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

“Hawai’i Sea Grant is pleased to host our third annual exhibition, working with artists to unite the community and address the critical issue of marine debris,” said Beth Lentz, Hawai’i Sea Grant assistant director for diversity and community engagement, which organized and curated the exhibition. “Through art, we recognize that environmental issues are personal and relatable, inspiring viewers to reconnect with the ocean and imagine a healthy and sustainable future for Hawaii.”

The exhibition will feature selected works by Jocelyn Ng, whose collaborative works deepen the connections between art, culture, science and social impact. Ng’s series of 10 mixed media portraits captures the powerful intersection of cultural identity and environmental stewardship.

“This project feels like a return to the source, a way to restore our relationship with the ocean, turning something that has been discarded into something sacred, something that speaks to our collective history,” Ng said. “Each portrait contains the mana of those whose lives are intertwined with roses, carrying their knowledge, their struggle and their love for the sea. It is an invitation to return with an open heart, to honor and protect the ocean as our own, and to imagine a future in which we move in balance with its ebb.”

Each Monday at ARTS in Marks Garage during the Science Art Show, the public will have the opportunity to learn from emerging scientists and local artists who will share their unique perspectives on scientific research, art and understanding. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and presentations will take place from 6 to 7 p.m.

For more information visit Hawaii Sea Grant website.