The following questions are the theme of the East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center’s new exhibit Kilo I Ka Mo’o, curated by Kanani Daley, which opens April 2.  How can Native Hawaiians reconcile the contradictions between the traditions of their subjugated culture and the contemporary ideals of a monetized society? Is it possible to express one’s native heritage, reclaim lost identity, and at the same time accept new ways?

Four artists including Ian Kuali’i, Kala’i Blakemore, Laura Dunn, and Nainoa Rosehill examine these questions through mixed media, photography, printmaking, and hand-cut paper. Their work is accompanied by audio of oli performed by Kumu Ulupuamahinamaikalani Peleiholani Blankenfeld-Kaheiki, with sound design by Ezri Weiss.

Kilo I Ka Mo’o will be on view from April 2 to May 27. Admission to the gallery is free.  The East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center is located at 141 Kalakaua Street in Hilo.  The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  For more information, visit EHCC online at ehcc.org

Photo credit: East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center