PRESS RELEASE NO. 10-2022
Leeroy New’s art installation “Taklobo” at the Foster Botanical Garden
20 February 2022, Honolulu - Filipino artists Leeroy New and the duo, Isabel Sicat and Aiala Rickard of TOQA, were among 43 artists and collectives from different countries participating in the Hawai'i Triennial 2022 (HT22) happening from February 18 to May 8, 2022 in Honolulu. The city-wide exhibition is taking place in several venues throughout the city. This year's event is centered around the theme: "E Hoomau no Moananuiakea" - the fluid concept of Pacific Century. According to the organizers, the exhibited works explore the interweaving themes of history, idea of space, environmental consciousness, indigenous knowledge, and identity within the context of Hawaii's unique position, at the middle of Asia-Pacific and Oceania.
Visitors flock Filipino artist Leeroy New’s art installation after the opening ceremony of the Hawaii Triennial at the Foster Botanical Garden.
Leeroy New, one of the renowned multi-media installation artists from the Philippines, is showcasing an installation made of bamboo, found plastics, and upcycled surfboards at the Foster Botanical Garden. His main work for HT22 features an alien floral structure (Kabibe) constructed out of discarded surfboards, which visitors can step inside to explore. The piece is attached to an existing nearby trellis using a string of discarded water bottles. The installation has the appearance of a mysterious vessel from outer space which transplanted itself in the lawn of Foster, perhaps alluding to the place's history and more generally, to human exploration which saw the introduction of foreign species to newly found lands.
(Left photo) Aiala Rickard and Isabel Sicat of TOQA (Right photos) Viewing of the short film showcasing TOQA’s Midnight Smoothie collection
Photo credit: Bernice Parsons
TOQA, a slow fashion brand from the Philippines, is showcasing their collection, Midnight Smoothie, which was developed specifically for HT22 as part of their larger Extreme Resort project. TOQA's 'Sport Resort' aesthetic “breaks down the restrictive notion of tropical wear, striking a balance between active and resort wear, while minimizing environmental impact, fostering conversations, and promoting alternative methods of cultural production.” The fashion collection is available for viewing at the gift shop of the Foster Botanical Garden and is featured in an immersive audiovisual production played within Foster's orchid conservatory. The short film was directed by Paco Raterta while the installation experience was crafted by Renko Floral, Patrick Parsons, and Hiraya.
The artists called on Consul General Emil Fernandez at the Philippine Consulate in Honolulu last February 2, who commended the trio for further highlighting Filipinos’ creative talents. Their participation in the Hawaii Triennial is also being supported by Vice Consul Andrea Christina Caymo.
Both Leeroy and TOQA's work will be available for public viewing until May 8, 2022. For more information about the Hawai'i Triennial 2022, visit https://hawaiicontemporary.org/ END.
