Capitol Modern: the Hawaii State Art Museum — Attraction in Honolulu

A museum truly for the general public. Visiting felt like entering a mini-Smithsonian (free admission) that’s emerging and under development. Of the people and for the people.

During last summer’s visit we noticed that there was no gift shop, and no floor staff, other than at main desk. Only security guards. However, the guards don’t “hover” among visitors.

Uncrowded, lots of time to read descriptions and view works up close. Features major artists living in or connected to Hawaii as well as student works of all ages.

Well known and highly regarded local artisans in painting, sculpture, ceramics and textile design were featured. A separate room showcased Native Hawaiian artists and their works. Special exhibits such as Children’s Day flying carp “koi nobori” are also featured.

Cleanliness of exhibition areas were uneven, especially in unused spaces.

Great value. Casual, relaxing atmosphere. Photo (non-flash) encouraged. Attendants not hovering around you.

On-street or municipal metered parking available nearby. Some public parking stalls available behind ʻIolani Palace. Easily accessible by...

Hawaii State Art Museum

When it comes to visual art, I am not the person who should give critiques. I’m the guy who likes those paintings of dogs playing poker. So, as a person who explores a different form of art, I had to look around with an open mind and open heart.

What stands out to me is the art that is directly relevant to the islands. So many pieces and so many different mediums, this non-visual art guy could only look and see stories. As I looked at a piece, I created a story on my head. Then I would read the actual story written about it I find that I’m close about half the time.

But that’s what art is about. It’s not about coming to the same interpretation as the artist, but about find your story through their art. I’m in conflict about this post, so I’ll say this...

If you want to get out of Waikiki, and see something that isn’t corporate generated, come downtown Honolulu at noon. Visit HiSAM then do a walkabout and see how Honolulu runs. Yes, we have the chronics and idiots, but we also have some great places to see in the middle of a work day! It will the best day you could have...

Albeit smaller than many metropolitan art musems, there is no deny the turn-of-the-century ambiance to this public space. The place itself has a lot of history and had several uses before becoming a state museum. Although the main exhibits are more long-term than temporary, there are smaller niches within the 2nd floor wings that allow for temporary exhibits like the recent one I really wanted to see on kapa - "Ho'omau: The Perpetuation of Kapa."

The is an interesting dining place inside on the first floor as well as a cultural and artsy gift shop.

The museum offers monthly guest artist discussions/presentations that are open to the public and also hands-on workshops.

GREAT for families! Every 2nd Saturday is family day where they have complimentary children's activities (games, workshops, arts and crafts, etc.) On the 2nd floor in the wing on the right (when facing the security desk) there is a cool kids play room with lots of tactile tinker/thinker toys and other creative pursuits available to kids like reading, building, drawing,...