Temari Hawaii and East-West Center present

IN THE FOLDS

"In the Folds" is presented in partnership with Temari Hawai‘i and features works demonstrating folding traditions, techniques, and practices from across the Asia Pacific region. This includes examples from American Samoa, China, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Fiji, Guåhan (Guam), Hawai‘i, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Marshall Islands, Okinawa, and the Philippines. Traditional works are displayed in juxtaposition with contemporary expressions by Hawai‘i-based artists including Arisa Terlaje Barcinas, Kamalu du Preez, Lynn Martin Graton, Vilsoni Hereniko, Marques Hanalei Marzan, Marcia Morse, and Sara Oka. The contemporary works have foundations in, or draw inspiration from traditional forms, techniques, and practices, and utilize a range of materials from natural fibers and papers to fabrics and textiles.

The act of folding in traditional practices ranges from the everyday to the ceremonial. In some practices the action and intention in folding is related to the concept of care or is elevating the aesthetic value. In customs of gift-giving a protocol of exchange is fulfilled or gratitude is expressed, and both the gifted object and the recipient are shown honor and respect. Examples of traditional and ceremonial dress, dance costumes, and props are displayed. The traditional works are highly codified, stylized, refined, and full of symbolic meaning. Therefore, they must be crafted with the utmost precision and skill, with methods oftentimes passed down from generation to generation. In some examples, the folding technique may be less apparent but is integral to the creation processes. Such examples include dyeing, kapa and paper making, weaving, and wrapping.

The inspiration for this exhibition was to explore how the act of folding draws people together, strengthens existing community connections, and creates new communities of practice. Founded in 1979, Temari Hawai‘i is an arts organization driven by a shared passion to learn, create, and connect. The organization explores Asia Pacific arts— traditional, foundational techniques and innovations in contemporary practices. This exhibition is guided by Temari’s history and vision and amplifies its message and approach. Temari’s work throughout the years promotes Asia Pacific traditions, supports local artists across generations, revitalizes art forms in collaboration with practitioners, recognizes and appreciates practices and techniques that connect across cultures, and creates community. As part of this exhibition, gallery visitors are invited to make a folded treasure and add it to a collective installation.

Special “In the Folds” Events

Sunday, April 16, 12:00–6:00 pm

Demonstrations by featured exhibition artists, and hands-on folding activities with Temari Hawai‘i and Sadako Peace Crane Project volunteers. In conjunction with East-West Fest, presented by EWC students and the EWC Education Program, with the theme Celebrating our Cultures, Sustaining our Communities, featuring cultural booths, activities, and performances on the EWC campus grounds.