2025 Vessels

Vessels: that which hold— All Media Juried Exhibit

This juried exhibition invites artists to explore the meaning and media of a vessel both literally and figuratively. Artwork may be a vessel by form or explore the theme of the word vessel. The exhibition is open to all Hawaiʻi-based 2D and 3D artists in all mediums and styles. Accepted works will be displayed along with Hawaiʻi Island pieces from the annual Hawaiʻi Handweavers Hui exhibit. The juror is Jamison Keʻa Rosehill, a Native Hawaiian kālai 'umeke (vessel carver) who draws upon ancestral knowledge to reinvigorate traditional expressions.

Submission deadline is Friday, August 8, at 5:00 PM HST. Entry fee is $20 non-refundable per submission, with a maximum of five entries per artist. Hawaii Island students receive a free first entry using code 'HIStudent'. Artists will be notified of acceptance by Monday, August 11. The exhibition runs September 5–25, 2025 at Wailoa Center in Hilo. Drop-off dates are Saturday, August 30 (Hilo) and Friday, August 29 (Kona). Off-island artwork must be received by Friday, August 29. The opening reception is Friday, September 5, 5:00–7:00 PM. Artwork pick-up is Friday, September 26. Monetary prizes will be awarded. For works sold, 75% of sales goes to the artist and 25% goes to HIAA.

Eligibility: Open to Hawaii State residents. Artwork must be in line with the theme. No reproductions or AI-generated or assisted art will be accepted. For 2D works larger than 7' tall x 9' wide or 3D works taller than 10' or wider than 6' feet, contact Wailoa Center. Submissions must include 1–5 artwork samples uploaded to a CaFÉ portfolio. Artist biography and statement are highly recommended. Off-island artists are responsible for shipping, insurance, and handling costs and must include a prepaid return shipping label and $10 handling fee per accepted artwork.