ARTafterDARK: Show Me The Bunny

by Maria Kanai

courtesy rie miyoshi

DIY Chinese firecracker decorations 

Since its opening in 2004, ARTafterDARK has been an enormously successful monthly event of nighttime art, food, and drinks. Organized by young volunteers passionate for art, the parties bring an eclectic group of social networkers, hipster urbanites, and art-loving families every last Friday to the Honolulu Academy of Arts. The beautiful architecture, cultural art, and open courtyards create a sophisticated, yet chill atmosphere for young and old alike to relax, enjoy the art, and meet new people.

So what makes ARTafterDARK so popular?

"The place, architecture, and the exhibits," said a regular volunteer at ARTafterDARK. "Definitely people-watching."

"The combination of nightlife and culture," said another loyal AAD fan, "I love that the themes are different every month, and that the art is based on different cultures."

"The different kinds of people," said an older couple, "We love that you can bring kids here."

courtesy rie miyoshi

Luce Pavilion fills with people as musicians like
DJ Cottontail pump techno beats. 

This month, ARTafterDARK kicked off the new year with the theme "Show Me The Bunny", showcasing Chinese culture with art by Andy Lee and lion dancing by Au's Shaolin Arts Society. The place was decorated with Chinese lanterns and was packed with its usual diverse crowd. I ran into old friends, made new ones, and even got my picture drawn by an aspiring artist! Various booths offered free prizes in fortune cookies, create-your-own Chinese New Year decorations, and contemporary Chinese food hosted by Town and Downtown restaurants. Fantastic music was provided by DJ Roxy Cottontail, and plenty of people were grooving to the beat in the Luce Pavilion.

Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, ARTafterDARK does not fail to impress. There is always something for everyone, and that's important for the diverse mix of people living in Hawaii. Mark your calendars for the next event, "Uma Noite de Carnaval" on February 25th. For more information, go to their website: http://www.artafterdark.org. Hope to see you there!