Posted on: Monday, January 13, 2003

EDITORIAL
Our Academy of Arts: 75 years and growing

One of the true cultural treasures of our state, the Honolulu Academy of Arts, has just celebrated its 75th anniversary looking younger and better than ever.

Founded by Anna Rice Cooke with a donation of land, $25,000 and 4,500 pieces of artwork, the Academy has grown into a multimillion-dollar institution with a collection of more than 38,000 objects.

Under Director George Ellis, who retires Feb. 1 after 21 years of service, the Academy has undergone an ambitious program of expansion and renovation. The phase began with the renovation of the old Linekona School.

Other major improvements during Ellis' tenure included the reinstallation of the Asian wing and the opening of the Luce Pavilion Complex.

While most of us think of the Academy as a place to visit, it is also an active participant in the state's economy through its promotion of cultural tourism to the Islands

The graceful, Island-style facility is a tremendous community resource in art education, exhibitions and preservation. Congratulations to the Academy on its 75th anniversary and to George Ellis for his determined leadership.