The 2025 Trash Show: Hawaiʻi Island Recycles

Hawaiʻi Island artists are invited to create art from trash and disrupt the refuse cycle. All artworks must be made from post-consumer recycled materials, discards, throwaways, accrual, etc. Large 3-D pieces can be accommodated and are encouraged; artists must be available for installation of large or difficult works. The exhibition is sponsored by Hawaiʻi Island Art Alliance (HIAA) and the Hawai'i State Parks. First entry is free for Hawaii Island students.

Eligibility is open to Hawaii Island residents. Artwork must have been created in the past four years and cannot have been previously exhibited at Wailoa Center. Artwork with sensitive subject matter (nudity, offensive religious or political statements, violence) may be juried out due to the State Parks facility. Accepted artwork must be gallery quality and installation ready. For large artworks (2D works larger than 7' tall x 9' wide or 3D works taller than 10' or wider than 6'), contact Wailoa Center to discuss accommodation. Artwork must be less than 40" x 40" with packaging to be eligible for Kona drop-off.

Entry fee is $20 per submission (non-refundable), with a maximum of five entries per artist. Work samples should include 1-5 images (minimum 1, maximum 5), with optional audio or video files. High quality images with the longest edge at 1200 pixels, sRGB, jpeg format are recommended. For 3D works, submit a collage of multiple photographs or a short video showing the work from various angles. Artist biography and statement (200 word limit) are highly recommended for exhibit documentation. Exhibition dates are October 3-30, 2025 at Wailoa Center in Hilo. Submission deadline is Friday, September 19 at 5:00 PM HST. Artist notification is Monday, September 22. Artwork drop-off in Hilo is Saturday, September 27 between 10:00am-1:00pm; in Kona, Friday, September 26 at 10:00am. Opening reception is Friday, October 3, 5:00-7:00pm. Artwork pick-up is Friday, October 31 (Hilo 10:00am-1:00pm, Kona 10:00am). For work sold, 75% goes to the artist and 25% to HIAA. Monetary prizes will be awarded. Jurors are Ira Ono and Ashley Lehualani Kierkiewicz.