The public is invited to the State Capitol on Friday, April 5 for the 11th annual Art at the Capitol event. As part of this free public event, the governor, lieutenant governor, and legislators will open their doors to share the diverse collection of public artwork that adorn their offices.
This year's theme, “The Capitol is Art,” celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Capitol building and the unique architectural aspects reflected in its design and construction.
“This is a highlight of the year for many of us at the State Capitol,” said Senator Brian Taniguchi (Senate District 11, Makiki, Manoa, Punchbowl, Papakolea), one of the event’s originators. “Our Capitol is unique in that it never closes, but on this night, the public gets a chance to see areas they can’t always visit, and experience the great artworks throughout the building. And this year, as they wander from floor to floor, I hope people will also take a moment to appreciate the great architecture and details that make this building very special.”
Again this year, an exhibit in Room 329 will feature artwork created by state legislators. Their collages will be assessed by the public, who will vote for their favorite work for a “People’s Choice” award.
"Art reminds us all to stop and think about the beauty and joys, struggles and tragedies that swirl around us each day,” said Representative Della Au Belatti (House District 24, Makiki, Tantalus, Papakolea, McCully, Pawaa, Manoa). “Hawaii artists are doing great things to tell the stories of our times, and hundreds of their art works are on display in the offices of the historic State Capitol. Please join us at the Capitol to see these thought-provoking pieces and meet your Representatives and their staff during this uplifting and free event."
Art at the Capitol begins with an opening program at 4:30 p.m. in room 329 that includes an introduction of artists and special guests. Self-guided tours start at 5 p.m., along with a 50th Anniversary Commemoration documentary in the Senate Chamber, and an Art at the Capitol documentary in the House Chamber.
Music will be performed during the event by members of the Hawai‘i Youth Symphony. The program ends at 7 p.m., when the public is invited to continue the celebration of local art and music across Richards Street at the Hawai‘i State Art Museum (HiSAM), which will be open until 9 p.m.
Art at the Capitol is sponsored by the Hawai‘i State Legislature and the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts.
www.facebook.com/artatthecapitolhawaii
WHO: Hawai‘i State Senators and Representatives,
Offices of the Governor and Lt. Governor
WHAT: 11th Annual Art at the Capitol
WHEN: Friday, April 5, 2019
4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Hawai‘i State Capitol
415 South Beretania Street Honolulu, Hawai'i 96813