Downtown Art Center Opens ‘Dance on the Edge of the Witches’ Cauldron’ with Five Hawai’i Masters
Five of Hawai’i’s most distinguished artists will converge at the Downtown Art Center this month for “Dance on the Edge of the Witches’ Cauldron,” a rare collective exhibition that brings together decades of island artistic mastery under one roof in Chinatown.
The show, running May 1-29, features works by Fred Roster, Pat Hickman, Allyn Bromley, Sally French and Linda Kane — artists whose individual careers span multiple generations of Hawai’i’s evolving art scene. Curated by gallery veteran Tom Klobe, the exhibition represents an uncommon opportunity to see these established voices in dialogue with one another.
“These are artists who have been creating profound work in Hawai’i for decades, but they don’t often share wall space,” Klobe explained during a recent walkthrough of the Nu’uanu Avenue gallery. “The magic happens when you put them together — their different approaches to place, memory and island life create this incredible conversation.”
The exhibition’s mystical title reflects the transformative power Klobe sees in bringing together artists whose work spans painting, sculpture, printmaking and mixed media. Each contributor brings a distinct perspective shaped by their long relationship with the islands.
Masters of Island Expression
Fred Roster, known for his abstract landscapes that capture the essence of Hawaiian light and geology, presents new works that push his signature style in unexpected directions. His pieces anchor one wall of the gallery’s main space, their earthy tones and flowing forms evoking volcanic formations and ocean currents.
Pat Hickman’s contribution includes several pieces from her ongoing exploration of indigenous plant forms, rendered in her characteristic blend of scientific observation and artistic interpretation. Her detailed botanical studies reveal the intersection of art and environmental awareness that has defined much of her career.
Allyn Bromley’s sculptures, crafted from materials sourced across the Pacific, demonstrate his decades-long commitment to exploring cultural connections between Hawai’i and the broader Oceanic region. His pieces incorporate traditional techniques with contemporary concepts, bridging ancient and modern island identities.
Sally French brings her mastery of printmaking to the exhibition, with several large-format works that layer imagery and text in ways that speak to the complex narratives of island life. Her pieces often incorporate found materials and local imagery, creating visual stories that resonate with long-time residents.
Linda Kane rounds out the group with mixed-media works that blur the boundaries between painting and collage. Her pieces draw from both personal memory and collective island history, creating layered compositions that reward close viewing.
Chinatown’s Cultural Hub
The Downtown Art Center, located at 1041 Nu’uanu Avenue, has become a cornerstone of Chinatown’s artistic renaissance over the past decade. The gallery’s commitment to showcasing both emerging and established local artists has made it a regular stop for collectors and art enthusiasts exploring the neighborhood’s cultural offerings.
The timing of the exhibition coincides with First Friday Chinatown, the monthly art walk that draws hundreds of residents and visitors to the historic district’s galleries, studios and cultural venues. The May 3 First Friday will serve as the unofficial opening celebration for “Dance on the Edge of the Witches’ Cauldron.”
“Having these five masters together during First Friday creates this perfect storm of artistic energy,” Klobe noted. “It’s exactly the kind of show that reminds people why Chinatown has become such an important cultural destination.”
The exhibition represents more than just a grouping of established artists — it’s a snapshot of Hawai’i’s artistic maturation over the past several decades. Each artist in the show has helped define what it means to create contemporary art in the islands, influencing younger generations while continuing to evolve their own practices.
Beyond the Gallery Walls
For Honolulu’s art community, the exhibition offers a rare chance to see how these individual artistic voices complement and challenge each other. The Downtown Art Center’s intimate space allows for close viewing of works that span multiple decades and artistic movements.
The show will remain on display through May 29, with gallery hours Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Special viewing hours will be available during First Friday Chinatown events.
For residents curious about Hawai’i’s artistic legacy and its continuing evolution, “Dance on the Edge of the Witches’ Cauldron” provides an essential viewing experience. These five artists have helped shape the visual culture of the islands for decades — seeing their work together offers insight into both where Hawai’i’s art scene has been and where it continues to head.
