Picture this: Digital photography and computer imaging as keys to unlock unknown creativity. The premise is the launching point for three established artists at Viewpoints Gallery in Makawao: Betty Hay Freeland, Dewitt Jones and Joelle C. Perz. The artists recently attended a Molokai workshop on the subject and left the island with a vow to use the media as a catalyst for creativity. "Here, There and Beyond" is the result of their explorations, a multimedia show that is open only until Tuesday.
With their backgrounds in fine art, the three discovered new options for creating work by employing the technological tools. The artists take viewers on a journey through slices of life scenes; their depictions illuminate familiar local settings as well as giving glimpses into national and international travels.
Touring Freeland's paintings provides a vibrant look at the surging seas of a Hookipa afternoon, a Makena sunset frozen in time, the lush greenery of Waikamoi Preserve and a sunrise at Molokai's Mo'omomi Preserve.
Article Photos
“Ikaika ‘ohi‘a-lehua”
oil on linen, 24 x 40, by Betty Hay Freeland
Jones' digital imaging on metal print is accompanied by snippets of insight from the perspective of the fine artist and photographer himself. His street photography images and writing elicit reflection and laughter, while consistently piquing curiosity about whether life imitates art or art imitates life.
Perz's mixed-media work combines photography on metal with wood carving, a new dimension in her artistic voyage. Her pieces are coupled with poetry, adding an element of story that spurs whimsy and wisdom. And the luminosity of the metal print brings out the vivid detail of each work.
Rather than shunning fast-moving technological tools of today, digital photography and computer imaging are embraced and used to feed a fresh creative journey in the not-to-miss exhibition.
Viewpoints Gallery, located at 3620 Baldwin Ave., Suite 101, Makawao, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. For more information, visit www.viewpointsgallerymaui or call 572-5979.
- Kehaulani Cerizo
