Christmas Mouse House returns

Subscribe Now Choose a package that suits your preferences.
Start Free Account Get access to 7 premium stories every month for FREE!
Already a Subscriber? Current print subscriber? Activate your complimentary Digital account.

WAIMEA — Martha Greenwell’s one-of-a kind Christmas Mouse House returns to the Isaacs Art Center at Hawaii Preparatory Academy this holiday season.

Through the generosity of her family, Greenwell’s intricate handcrafted village will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday until Jan. 11. Admission is free.

The gifted artistry and spirit of the late artist is reflected in this Christmas village wonderland, affectionately known as “The Mouse House.”

“As they enter, children and families ask us, ‘Where is the Mouse House? We can’t wait to see it!’” said Mollie Hustace, director of the Isaacs Art Center.

All of the artifacts featured in the display are from the attic and tool shed of Greenwell’s in-laws, Frank and Violet Greenwell of Palani Ranch. It took Greenwell eight years to assemble the village.

The Mouse House made its first Big Island appearance in December 2005 at the Kona Historical Society when the village returned to the artist’s home from Oahu after more than 20 years of being part of an annual holiday tradition at the Queen’s Hospital Auxiliary’s “Festival of Trees.”

“With the recent arrival of Martha Greenwell’s magical fantasyland of miniature mice, we celebrate 10 years of joy and appreciation on the faces of all who visit the gallery,” Hustace said.

The Isaacs Art Center at Hawaii Preparatory Academy is located adjacent to the Village Campus at 65-1268 Kawaihae Road. The Center will be closed Dec. 25 through Jan. 3.

Info: 885-5884.

Tops among them, the classes of eager students.

They come from around the island to draw art inspired by the infinitely creative Mouse Village.

“In gratitude to the Greenwell ohana, we are honored to continue this remarkable tradition!” Hustace said.

The Isaacs Art Center at Hawaii Preparatory Academy is located adjacent to the Village Campus at 65-1268 Kawaihae Road. The Center will be closed Dec. 25 through Jan. 3.

Info: 885-5884.