Mālama Wao Akua 2026 celebrates Maui Nui’s native species through art

Mālama Wao Akua, Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center’s annual exhibition celebrating the native species of Maui Nui, is on view through Nov. 6, 2026, at Hui No‘eau in Makawao. Presented in collaboration with the East Maui Watershed Partnership, the 22nd annual exhibition brings together artwork inspired by the plants, animals, landscapes, and watersheds that make Maui Nui unique.

The exhibition, whose name translates to “Caring for the Realm of the Gods,” was created to encourage artists and the broader community to explore Maui Nui’s native species and deepen awareness of their importance. Artists were invited to use their creative practice to share knowledge about native species and watersheds in meaningful and engaging ways.

“Mālama Wao Akua creates an opportunity for artists to look closely at the natural world around us and share what they discover through their work,” said Hui No‘eau. “The exhibition brings together art and conservation in a way that invites the community to learn, connect, and consider the importance of protecting the native species and habitats of Maui Nui.”

The 2026 exhibition was juried by Emillia Noordhoek, artist, arts administrator, and community arts advocate, and Chris Brosius, Program Manager of the Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed Partnership. Together, their backgrounds in the arts, conservation, natural resource management, and community advocacy bring both artistic and environmental perspectives to the exhibition.

Mālama Wao Akua is open to artists of all ages and abilities, with artwork accepted in a wide range of media. The exhibition focuses on native species of Maui Nui, including Maui, Lanaʻi, Molokaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe, and encourages viewers to consider the connections between native species, healthy watersheds, and the communities that depend on them.

Upcoming Talk Story

The exhibition continues with a special Talk Story Thursday on Nov. 5 from 4–5 p.m. at Hui No‘eau. Koa Plauche of The Nature Conservancy will join the community for a conversation exploring the exhibition and the importance of native species, restoration, and aloha ʻāina. The evening will also include the announcement of the People’s Choice Award, selected through votes from gallery visitors.

Mālama Wao Akua 2026 is on view at Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center, 2841 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao, through Nov. 6. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.

For more information and to explore selected works, visit malamawaoakua.org or huinoeau.com.