Hawaii students challenged to interpret compassion and aloha for hungry, homeless in art competition

Submissions are now being accepted for the fifth annual Compassion in Arts competition hosted by Aloha Harvest.

This contest is open to middle and high school students statewide who are challenged to interpret “compassion and aloha for the hungry and less fortunate,” which is the theme for this year, in their artwork.

There are a variety of categories available, including drawing, painting, sculpture, poetry, video and dance., among others. Deadline for submissions is Oct. 7. For guidelines and to download the submission visit www.alohaharvest.org or call the office 537-6945.

Compassion in Arts was created with the hopes to instill compassion in the younger generations today for those who are in need and less fortunate. Last year’s competition attracted more than 200 students statewide and Aloha Harvest honored 29 finalists from Oahu, Maui and the Big Island at the opening exhibit. All entries were on display at the Honolulu Museum of Art School for about two weeks.

This year’s opening exhibit ceremony will be held Oct. 21 at the Honolulu Museum of Art School at 6 pm. Admission is free and open to the public. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided. The exhibit will be on display until Nov. 5.

Aloha Harvest is the only nonprofit organization in Hawaii’s that rescues food to help feed Hawaii’s hungry. Excess, quality foods is picked up from restaurants, hotels, food distributors, caterers and grocery stores and delivered free of charge to social service agencies that serve the low income and homeless population. Since inception in November 1999, Aloha Harvest has rescued more than 17 million pounds of food and beverages and has helped to provide meals to 52,000 individuals monthly with the help of 183 social service agencies.

Info: 537-6945 or www.alohaharvest.org.