Exhibit by wildlife artist John D. Dawson opens Saturday

Hawaii Island wildlife artist John D. Dawson will be featured in an upcoming exhibit titled “Live Long and Prosper Mighty Ohia” at Volcano Art Center Gallery.

This exhibition features illustrations and paintings depicting the naturally occurring diversity of ohia trees found within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The free exhibition will open to the public on Saturday and continues through Oct. 8. A special opening reception with Dawson is slated 5-7 p.m. on Saturday.

“Dawson’s depictions of one of Hawaii’s most beloved trees is surely an exhibit not to miss,” said gallery manager Emily C. Weiss. “The fact that each tree is an actual depiction of one present in our park lands provides a concise visual of the variations found within the species. We also hope the exhibit will bring awareness and understanding to the threat of the fungal disease, Ceratocystis fimbriata, more commonly known Rapid Ohia Death or ROD, which is currently attacking and killing the most abundant native tree on our island,” continues Weiss.

This exhibit is free and open to the public. The gallery is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

In conjunction with the exhibit, Dawson will be sharing his art as well as personal stories and inspiration during this evening’s event. The exhibit will also celebrate Dawson’s 80th birthday.

Dawson’s past artwork is included within the maps provided to all visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as well as the educational display inside the Kilauea Visitor Center. One of Dawson’s proudest accomplishments is the Nature in America stamp series, which includes a lively depiction of The Hawaiian Rainforest created for the United States Postal Service.

Dawson’s resume includes many major assignments and has appeared in national publications for the National Geographic Society, National Wildlife Federation, Audubon Society, United Nations and the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, among others.

The presentation is part of a once-a-month Thursday evening series at the Volcano Art Center, focusing on art, Hawaiian culture and our environment. The series is intended to inspire, enhance our art and life experience and foster community connections. It is free, but a $5 donation is suggested. ■