Community Projects
Public Art
A large mural on the side of our building (above) was completed by the students at Kanu O’Ka Aina school and their teacher Scott Plunkett, along with additional assistance from Tom Mehau, well-known local artist and founder of the Waimea Artists’ Guild.
Murals on display on other outside walls were donated to the council in the 90s and painted by students of St. Joseph’s School in Hilo.
In July of 2017, our newest mural was added on the west outside wall, featuring a horse looking out of his stall. This mural was painted by Terry Bensch, a long time member of the Waimea Arts Council, and honors the paniolo tradition of the Waimea area.
Community Collaborative Projects
First Saturday Free Art Class at Thelma Parker Memorial Public Library
Held on the first Saturday of the month starting April 1, 2023. WAC provides a member artist and all materials for a fun filled and free monthly class hosted by the Thelma Parker Memorial Library. For information on upcoming classes and to register, contact the library at 808-887-6067.
Free Keiki Art Club at Big Island Art Fair
Held on Saturdays alongside the Big Island Art Fair in Waimea, WAC supplies materials and an instructor who can adjust the complexity of the art project based on the individual abilities of the participants. Both children and parents can view professional, visit with artists, and then engage in an art project. This program has been ongoing since 2022.
Cherry Blossom Festival
Held in February each year, Waimea celebrates the blooming of the cherry trees and WAC features art related to cherry blossoms during that month, as well as participating on the day of the celebration.
Healthy Keiki Fest
Held in April each year at the Parker Ranch Shopping Center and WAC has had a booth there for many years, stirring up an interest in art with a project for the kids.
Special Projects
Humane Society
In July of 2016, WAC featured artwork of pets of all kinds and donated a percentage of all sales for that month to the Hawaii Island Humane Society. There was a reception that featured sketches done onsite of any pets brought it and adoptable animals brought by the Hawaiian Island Humane Society, Waimea branch.
Aunt Betty Sunglass Project
In March 0f 2015, WAC opened their doors for 8 days to anyone in Waimea who would like to come in and have their photo taken wearing a pair of Aunt Betty Webster’s sunglasses to assist her in documenting her collection for the Guinness Book of Records. It was very successful, and her collection of over 1500 sunglasses was certified as a Guinness record. WAC took all the photos and helped her submit them to Guinness, as well as throwing a big party to celebrate when it was all official.
