TOMA Wahine Edition: Terrace of Modern Art is Back with a new Quarterly Showcase
Steps from famed Waikiki Beach, craft hotel Waikiki Beachcomber is the place to be for all things local art and culture, from murals to music to supercool events. And now, the celebrated Terrace of Modern Art (TOMA) series—a free pop-up show—is back.
Brought to life in partnership with the Instagram-famous Hawaiian Aroma Caffe, TOMA is a quarterly platform that showcases local artwork. The latest installation: A celebration of wahine (women in Hawaiian) artists in honor of International Women's Month.
The latest event, TOMA Wahine Edition, kicked off with guests and locals enjoying the night of art and culture.
"Hawaii's art scene contributes so much to the vibrancy of life in the islands. We're honored to provide a space to showcase and honor our wahine artists during International Women's Month in this next installment of TOMA," said Jonathan Rotmensch, Hawaiian Aroma Caffe owner and TOMA founder.
Al Fresco Art
The hotel's poolside terrace is transformed into a beautiful al fresco gallery for each TOMA. The latest quarterly showcase brought back the vibe in wahine style with art from six female artists against the summer-vibes backdrop of a live set of Tropical House and Chillwave from DJ Jem and live 'ukelele music from award-winning Tai-mane Gardner.
Poolside Pop-ups
There were also pop-up shops and food and drink booths from wahine-run businesses: a bikini boutique hosted by Pohakupuna Beach Club, local food favorites from Luna Events Hawaii, farm-to-cup mixology from Drink Gazoz, a hair extension station from JXN&CO., pop-up from travel bag star Aloha Collection, and more. The first 100 guests got to sample goodies from the event inside totes designed by Shar Tuiasoa (a.k.a. Punky Aloha).
Wahine World
TOMA's fifth exhibit brought to life the art and designs of Hawaii-based female artists, all celebrating the beauty of the islands they call home. Paintings from Lauren Roth and Christie Chinn showcased Hawaii's colorful and everyday beauty, and bold-color paintings from Kate Wadsworth incorporated subtle symbolism.
Polynesian graphical elements pop against traditional Hawaiian scenes in works by Summer Colmus, and bold illustrations from commercial designer and artist Kat Reeder depicted the best of island life. Our own Hawaiian Aroma Caffe's creative director and artist, Barby Casagrande, combined abstract and fine art elements (check out her intricate latte art drawings at the cafe!).
Giving Back
Waikiki Beachcomber's motto: Celebrating with a good cause.
Continuing this mission, TOMA partnered with Hawaii nonprofit Women Speaking Out (WSO). Founded by former Miss Hawaii Juliet Lighter, WSO is committed to giving a voice to Hawaii youth via innovative action, education, and opportunities to take a stand against dating violence.
The art continues round-the-clock at Waikiki Beachcomber, so if you like your vacays with a bit of culture and perfect-for-summer aloha vibes, this is your place. Stay posted on the next TOMA event, and book your stay now!
