Gallery ‘Iolani’s current exhibit showcases the clay and bronze works of Kaua‘i native David Kuraoka, professor emeritus of art and former ceramics department head at San Francisco State University.
Kuraoka is known for his large ceramic pieces and his use of pit firing, a technique that results in rich, soft colors that evoke natural landscapes.
“The pit firing, a lot of times it’s almost like painting with fire,” Kuraoka said on the KQED program Spark in 2003. “So you pretty much can capture the pattern of the flame. And it looks spontaneous and serendipity, but there’s a lot of control. Sometimes I make a piece that’s really tight or really formal, so that the informality of the fire will balance it.”
Kuraoka was named a Living Treasure of Hawai‘i by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission, which honors those who have made outstanding contributions to Hawai‘i.
The exhibit runs through Feb. 29 and is open to the public. The gallery is located adjacent to Palikū Theatre in the Hale Pālanakila complex. Gallery hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and Sunday (closed Saturdays).
For more information, go to gallery.windward.hawaii.edu or call 236-9155.
by Ka ‘Ohana, News Staff
