Say Hello to Capitol Modern
(Partner Content) A reintroduction to the people’s modern art museum.
At first glance the 1920’s-era No. 1 Capitol District Building, nestled under verdant monkeypod trees adjacent to the State Capitol, appears to simply be another set of downtown offices. Yet since 2002 this historic location and former YMCA has been the quiet and often undiscovered home of the Hawai‘i State Art Museum. This month, the museum formerly called by the acronym HiSAM is reintroducing its contemporary art galleries to the public with a new name—Capitol Modern.
“Our new name better reflects not only our location, but also the dynamic modern art experience here that people have grown to know and love,” says Karen Ewald, Executive Director. “Capitol Modern remains a museum for the people of Hawai‘i today, the artists of Hawai‘i tomorrow, and everyone interested in exploring diverse voices through art.”
Capitol Modern is a small gallery with a big responsibility, and admission to its galleries, outdoor sculpture garden, and lively monthly events are always free. Part of the Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts Art in Public Places program, the museum serves all of Hawai‘i by exhibiting the largest and finest collection of works by contemporary Hawai‘i artists, all owned by the State.
As the museum enters its third decade, it’s even better poised to connect young and old to art experiences that reflect today while offering creative gathering spaces that inspire connection and creativity. Capitol Modern’s biggest little art collection, featured artists, and upcoming events can be explored on its new website.
