“Helen and the AOK Board have taken Arts of Kona from a spark of their imagination to concept to actually happening in one year! Kona has desperately needed a group of caring people to take this ball and run with it for a long time. Our community is long overdue for an Art Center! Thanks Helen and All, for your dedication to seeing this project happen! Bravo!”
Barbara Garcia Bowman, Ke`Ola Magazine
December 2009

Comments regarding our first Young Artists’ Showcase on October 24, 2009:
“The fact that you drew so many more participants than you projected is an indication of how much pent up demand there is for what you are doing. What a ringing endorsement of what you are working to create!”
Paul Scarbrough, Akustiks, LLC

“This is most impressive! Congratulations!”
Christopher Blair, Akustiks, LLC

“Just wanted to send a note to let you know how much we enjoyed the "Young Artist Showcase" held October 24th at the Sheraton Keauhou Beach Resort. The event was extremely well organized and professionally done.  Both my parents and I were "blown away" by the level of talent in that room.  We especially enjoyed interacting and talking with the students (artists) about their work. Prior to this event, I was unaware of my son’s talent in art.  Rightfully so, he was very proud of his oil painting.  We now have a passionate artist living amongst us!” Thanks again!
Scott P. Unger, parent

“… it was a first class showcase and I’m extremely proud to have been a part of it.”
Lynette Lisez, artist & teacher

“ … great job yesterday!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! What a wonderful and special day!!!
Shannon Wooching, parent

Some Makua Lani School students’ comments who participated:
"I had a good time - it was fun to see other people do their talents on stage. I was happy I went and to see some of my art work on the table. I also liked seeing other people's art work."
Student

"I liked how they set up the room and brought in all different kinds of art made by other kids. It was good for me to see other people's work, because I can see where I'm at in my ability."
Student

"I liked how everyone's ages were displayed with their art. We could see what kind of drawing/painting and what age they were."
Student

"I'm not interested in competition, so the show was comfortable, to experience other's work. Overall, a good first experience."
Student

"I did appreciate the positive comments that I was given. It made me feel better for my art."
Student

"The Arts of Kona Art Show was a different experience for me personally. I had never been in an art show before, and even though what I had shown wasn't my personal favorite, but I hoped other people enjoyed it. "
Student

"For me the Arts of Kona was a great experience. It gave young artists like me a chance to display our work as well as compare and contrast it to other peoples work. Something like this could really open up a lot of opportunities for people who are trying to get their work seen. Even for people who just want to display - it gives them a chance to see other peoples work as well as entertainment."
Student

“As you can see The Arts of Kona really was a great experience for all students - they had never seen their work displayed in a public venue and had not realized the extent of their talent.”
Cathy Sugiyama, teacher