Public invited to celebrate new public artwork at Keōpūolani Park with Maui artist Jillian Ikehara

Maui Public Art Corps hosts a gathering at Keōpūolani Regional Park on Saturday and Sunday, June 14 and 15 for a unique chance to meet Maui artist Jillian Ikehara as she brings the third artwork in the Maui Utility Box Art Project to life.

This innovative public art initiative turns everyday infrastructure into vibrant, community-rooted art, each piece grounded in authentic local storytelling. Jillian was selected through a public call and panel review process to design this latest installation, inspired by a recorded Hui Mo‘olelo talk-story between Carol Ball and Erin Wade.

“In their conversation, Carol and Erin explore the past, present, and future of Maui, from Wailuku’s role as a historic hub to Kahului’s vision as ‘Dream City,’” Ikehara said. “My design reimagines what a ‘Dream City 2.0’ could look like—one where we’ve learned from our history and created a walkable, sustainable community rooted in Native Hawaiian values. Each panel reflects this evolution, from the plantation era to future possibilities.”

The public is invited to stop by the installation site—located near the dog park and YMCA parking lot off Kanaloa Avenue—to share words of encouragement, offer a cold drink, ask a thoughtful question, or simply bear witness.

“Public art helps us listen more closely to the places we call home. By honoring local stories and inviting public participation, it becomes a living thread between past, present, and future.” says Kelly White, Chair of Maui Public Art Corps and Manager of the County of Maui’s public art program. “When created through a public process and grounded in authentic storytelling, it preserves our island’s unique identity, inspires intergenerational learning, and invites everyone to see their surroundings—and each other—with renewed respect and aloha.”

In April 2025, two Maui-based artists completed the first in the three-box pilot:

Christopher Carraway (Kīhei) honored the story of Reverend Gensho Hara, his daughter Yayoi, and the Lahaina Jodo Mission with a design that speaks to resilience and connection for those displaced by the Lahaina wildfires.

“I know I am just a spoke in the wheel. This is for the community—and with their blessing, I hope to bring this beautiful story to light.”

Sarah DeYoung (Haʻikū) drew from the legacy of Kealoha Lake and the Hawaiian Canoe Club in Kahului to create a design rooted in generational wisdom and aloha.

“So many wonderful conversations, so many cute dogs! This feels like the beginning of something really special, and I’m so grateful.”

“By inviting artists and community members to co-create public art rooted in place, the Maui Utility Box Art Project helps preserve stories that matter—and inspires us all to keep learning from the past as we shape our future,” according to the Maui Public Art Corps.

“Whether you’re walking your dog, playing ball, skating, or just enjoying a weekend stroll, take a moment to connect with Jillian and become a public art ambassador. Learn the story behind the art—and share it forward.”