A new exhibit draws attention to the pressing issue of marine debris impacting Hawaii’s coastlines and ecosystems. Hosted at ARTS at Marks Garage in Honolulu’s historic Chinatown district, the third annual science-art exhibition, “Refuse REFUSE,” runs November 1-23 and is organized by the Sea Grant College Program at the University of ‘Hawaii.

In partnership with the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project and the Hawai’i Pacific University Marine Debris Research Center, “Refuse REFUSE” features a dynamic collection of artwork by 15 local artists, seven selected students from Ka’u High School and Pahala Elementary School who participated in the youth art competition. , and two classrooms at Kīpapa Elementary School and Voyager Public Charter School. The opening evening will be an opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy refreshments and listen to live music from Sarah Woo on November 1, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“Hawai’i Sea Grant is excited 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, Hawai’i Sea Grant deputy director for diversity and community engagement who organized and curated the exhibition. “Through art, we recognize that environmental challenges are personal and relevant, inspiring viewers to reconnect with the ocean and envision a healthy, sustainable future for Hawai’i. »

The exhibition will feature a selection of artworks by Jocelyn Ng whose collaborative works deepen the connection between art, culture, science and community impact. Ng’s series of 10 mixed media portraits encapsulates the powerful intersection between cultural identity and environmental stewardship.

“This project feels like a return to the source, a way of reclaiming our relationship with the ocean by transforming what was thrown away into something sacred, something that speaks to our collective history,” Ng said. “Each portrait contains the mana of those whose lives are linked to roses, carrying their knowledge, their struggles and their love for the sea. It is an invitation to turn around with an open heart, to honor and to protect the ocean as we would our own parents, and to envisage a future in which we evolve in balance with its ebb.

Every Monday at The ARTS at Marks Garage, during the Science-Art Exhibition, the public will have the opportunity to learn from early-career scientists and local artists while sharing their unique perspectives on research science, art and understanding. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and presentations will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information, visit Hawaii Sea Grant Website.