This fourth installment of 8x8 brings together eight visual artists and eight performing artists based in Hawaiʻi to create new work inspired by their encounters with Shangri La. Sparking a generative force to this year's exhibition, the theme “source” has been interpreted by these artists to produce commentaries on topics ranging from sustainability and ancestry to rising and return.
The exhibition features eight performance artist videos, illustrating a rich tapestry of perspectives and interpretations, offering insights into the nuanced history, diverse collection, unique environment, and intricate complexities of both Shangri La and Hawaiʻi.
8x8: Source |Sean-Joseph Takeo Kahāokalani Choo | "Shangri La: A Utopia"
My first few visits to Shangri La were beautiful, filled with art, puppets, epic sunsets, conversations, and epic grinds. When I started preparing for this project, I invited my partner to join during one of my site visits. I asked what they thought of the place, and they mentioned feeling uneasy with the mish-mash of artworks from around the world, its Orientalist vibes. I hadn’t stepped into the space with a critical eye, just with an aesthete’s one, and their comments made me re-think my approach and process.
Talk story is something I love doing. Perhaps it has something to do with growing up surrounded by storytellers: not by professional filmmakers or actors or novelists, mind you, just ‘ohana sharing who we are by talking about ancestors, each other. I love to linger in places and chat with and listen to folx from all different walks of life: I have a curious personality. I also strongly believe in the discipline and art of listening, and how that simple act of listening can bring a blessing of sorts to those engaged. It shows respect. Now, I know a conversation cannot change the world overnight, but I know it can definitely soften one’s heart, and promote understanding. I believe more understanding, listening, and aloha is needed in this day and age.
All my experiences, my family, and my mixed background inform the structure of this piece as well as the content. As you watch, I hope you consider what it means for you to re-connect to those who have come before, and what it means to mālama honua wherever your travels take you.
Portuguese Voice Over
Andrea Torres
Korean Voice Over
Lee SungGwan
이선관
Japanese Voice Over
Serina Dunham
世理奈・ダンハム
Binisaya nga Hiligaynon Translation and VO:
Raffy Bun
Uchinaguchi Translation + VO
Grant Murata
Brandon Ing
‘Ōlelo Hawai’i Translation and VO:
Iāsona Kaper
Learn more about Shangri La and the 8x8: Source exhibition at: www.shangrilahawaii.org/
and @hi_shangrila
12 янв 2024
