North Shore NewsThe Good Tidings Foundation opened a new underwater themed art studio at Waialua High & Intermediate School alongside US National Spearfishing Champion Kimi Werner. Donated by Good Tidings Foundation and inspired by Kimi Werner and Hawaii’s great photographers, the renovations of the new art studio, designed by international architect firm MBH Arcitects, include six color ombre wall paint, a custom Albizia wood table, new stools and chairs, magnetic blue boards, artist desks with task lighting, art supplies, nearly 20 images of Hawaiian sea life and much more that provide a unique and state of the art environment for Waialua’s students to create for years to come.
Widely and safely attended by community leaders and the Waialua Bulldog family, the re-opening event included a special blessing from local minister Kahu Kordell Kekoa and remarks from Waialua High and Intermediate School leadership as well as Good Tidings Foundation founder, Larry Harper, and US National Spearfishing Champion, award-winning artist, chef, and thought leader, Kimi Werner.
“The ocean, and her life giving and saving nature, has been at the core of my life since I was young. Seeing this incredible, underwater ocean themed, art studio has filled my heart with immense pride and joy.” said US National Spearfishing Champion Kimi Werner, “I know personally, and now as a mother, the importance of encouraging and providing our young people with diverse enrichment tools that enable them to reach their greatest heights. I am thrilled to have partnered with Good Tidings to make this project successful for the Waialua community.”
“Good Tidings has committed itself to providing opportunities and spaces for children to play, create, and dream since 1995” said Good Tidings Foundation founder Larry Harper. “Completing our 211th project here in Waialua, a place so special to my family, has been a wonderful chance to give back to a community that has been a such foundation in our lives. I hope this studio provides the next generation of creators with the tools and inspiration to create without limits.”
Also in attendance was the Waialua High & Intermediate School Principal, Christine Alexander, and Assistant Principal, Neal Okamoto. Donors to the new art studio include: Ruff Cut Hawaii, Rust & Root, Justin Turkowski, Perrin James, Christa Funk, John Johnson, and Quillopo Painting.
Good Tidings believes that every child should have access to explore and excel in the activities they are passionate about. Good Tidings Foundation has built 200+ athletic facilities, art studios, music studios, teen rooms, makers space, and more for marginalized children, and has awarded over $1,716,000 in scholarships for children in under-served communities in partnership with professional sports teams and industry icons.