Maui portrait exhibit appeals to eyes, mind

By Victoria Gail-White
Advertiser Art Critic

•	Schaefer Portrait Challenge 2003 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays, through Feb. 23 Schaefer International Gallery, Maui Arts & Cultural Center (808) 242-2787

Jurors Momi Cazimero, Cynthia Conrad, Tom Klobe and Shige Yamada's criteria for selection were more than simple submissions of portraits in two and three dimensions and various media. The portraits had to be created from life and include a written statement about the artist and why the portrait subject was worthy of recognition (this included self-portraits.) They also had to be completed within the year before the deadline.

Additionally, in their statement the jurors wrote, "In portraiture, the artist must add the dimension of understanding the subject — the ability to reveal the inner spirit of the sitter — and convey that essence to the viewer. The results must be unique, introspective and distinctive."

From 221 entries, the jurors selected just over 50 works of art from artists statewide (including 16 from O'ahu, 19 from Maui, 10 from the Big Island and seven from Kaua'i). Artists had to be present to claim the prize. Almost all of the selected artists and many of their sitters attended the award ceremony.

The jurors looked for "artistic merit, passion, honesty and a confidence displayed by the artist that indicates mastery of the subject, materials and technique. But these qualities had to be present in the works in a way that transcended mere representation. They had to appeal to the mind as well as the eye. The human connection was essential.

And the winner is ...

On Jan. 5, the Jurors' Choice Award of $15,000 was given to Hanae Uechi Mills for her vitreography (monoprint technique) portrait, "A Journey's Dream" of Bishop Jikyo Rose. Viewers are encouraged to continue to vote for the Marian Freeman People's Choice Award, which will be announced Feb. 13.

In her description of the sitter, Mills wrote, "Bishop Rose exemplifies all the qualities of a great teacher. For the past 22 years, she has inspired me with her extraordinary insight, humility and selflessness. Her deep respect for all life and humanity has helped countless children and adults aspire to be the best they can be."

In winning what could be considered the Oscar of local art awards, Mills said, "It is unexpected and quite and honor. I was happy and thought it was already everything just to be part of the selected works at the Maui Cultural Center. I am still surprised. It is such a humbling thing."