Organized by the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program, the third annual sci-art exhibition titled “Refuse REFUSE” focuses on the profoundly negative impact of marine debris on Hawaii coastlines and ecosystems.

What You Need To Know

  • A collection of art by 15 local artists, seven students from Kaʻu High and Pahala Elementary School who participated in the Youth Art Competition, and two classrooms from Kipapa Elementary and Voyager Public Charter School is featured

  • The exhibit will be on display at The ARTS at Marks Garage in Chinatown through November 23

The exhibit is in partnership with the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project and Hawaii Pacific University’s Center for Marine Debris Research and is on display at The ARTS at Marks Garage in Chinatown through November 23.

A collection of art by 15 local artists, seven students from Kaʻu High and Pahala Elementary School who participated in the Youth Art Competition, and two classrooms from Kipapa Elementary and Voyager Public Charter School is featured in the exhibit.

“Hawaii Sea Grant is delighted to host our third annual exhibit, working with artists to bring the community together and confront the critical issue of marine debris,” said Beth Lenz in a news release. Lenz is Hawaii Sea Grant’s assistant director for diversity and community engagement who organized and curated the exhibit.

“Through art, we acknowledge that environmental challenges are personal and relatable, inspiring viewers to reconnect with the ocean and envision a healthy sustainable future for Hawaii,” Lenz said.

Artist Jocelyn Ng's mixed-media portraits focus on the intersection between cultural identity and environmental stewardship. (Image courtesy of the University of Hawaii at Manoa)

A featured artist of the exhibit, Jocelyn Ng, offers works that delve into the connection between art, culture, science and community impact. Her series of 10 mixed-media portraits illustrates the powerful intersection between cultural identity and environmental stewardship.

“This project feels like a return to the source, a way to reclaim our relationship with the ocean by transforming what’s been discarded into something sacred, something that speaks of our collective story,” said Ng.

“Each portrait holds the mana of those whose lives are intertwined with the roses, carrying their knowledge, their struggles, and their love for the sea. It’s an invitation to turn back with open hearts, to honor and protect the ocean as we would our own kin, and to envision a future where we move in balance with its ebb," Ng said.

During the month-long exhibit, The ARTS at Marks Garage will offer the public an opportunity to hear the unique views on scientific research, art and understanding from early career scientists and local artists, 6 to 7 p.m. every Monday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.