‘Wings and Woodlands’ exhibit takes flight for its 3rd year in November

“Wings and Woodlands: A Tribute to Native Birds and Forests” — a free exhibit celebrating Hawaiʻi’s native wildlife and the vibrant ecosystems they call home — takes flight for a third year Nov. 7.

The experience showcases paintings and photographs by artists from Hawai‘i and beyond alongside student artwork inspired by the beauty and fragility of Kaua‘i’s natural heritage.

Community members are invited to the exhibit opening at 6 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Kaua‘i Society of Artists Gallery at Kukui Grove Center in Līhuʻe.

The exhibit will be on display Nov. 8-14.

This year features a special partnership with the Kauaʻi Endangered Seabird Recovery Project, expanding the focus beyond forest birds to include Kauaʻi’s rare and imperiled seabirds.

Visitors will also find images and information about two recently rediscovered native snail species found only on Kaua‘i, reminders that conservation extends through all Hawaiʻi’s unique species.

Guests can explore the exhibit throughout the week, learning from conservation experts and taking part in workshops and film screenings focused on native birds, plants and culture.

“Our hope is that people come not only to enjoy the incredible artwork but also to connect with the stories of these species — whether forest birds, seabirds or snails — that make Kauaʻi unlike anywhere else on Earth,” said Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project Planner Julia Diegmann in an an announcement for the upcoming exhibit.

Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project and Kauaʻi Endangered Seabird Recovery Project, along with partners Birds Not Mosquitoes and Trees for Honolulu’s Future, continue urgent efforts to protect endangered species threatened by avian malaria, predators and habitat loss.

“Art has the power to inspire people to care for our native species,” added Hazel Cashman with Kauaʻi Endangered Seabird Recovery Project in the announcement. “Seeing their beauty through paintings and photographs helps us connect emotionally and motivates action to protect them and their fragile habitats.”

“Wings and Woodlands” honors the resilience of Kauaʻi’s wildlife and inspires hope for their future — simply by celebrating art and science together.

Find more information and a schedule for exhibit workshops and more at the Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project website.

Images courtesy of Hawai’i Department of Land and Natural Resources