Shops At Wailuku – Wild Banana Gallery opening – David Whitney

Shops At Wailuku – Wild Banana Gallery opening – David Whitney and his small and courageous brave souls putting downtown Wailuku, Maui on the avant- grade map; unique and fun perspectives for the world to enjoy! 2001

Summary & Transcript Below…

• [00:02 → 02:39]
  Introduction & Cultural Context: Maui Stylin by Lono.
• The video opens with a vibrant, rhythmic chant or song emphasizing the phrase “Maui stylin”, portraying it as a lifestyle or attitude distinct to Maui islanders.
• Key messages include:
  • “If you ain’t Maui stylin, you just living on an island” — implying Maui styling is an essential, spirited way of life.
  • Sunshine in your heart and encouragement to lift your head and look to the heavens suggest a positive, uplifting mindset tied to this Maui identity.
• The chant repeats various Maui-related localities or styles, e.g., Makena style, Upcountry style, Kaupo style, Kahana stylin, Hana stylin— showcasing the diversity within Maui culture.
• The mood is celebratory, emphasizing community and family love, resilience (“pick yourself up and get on your feet”), and a connection to place.

• [03:03 → 04:39]
  Artist Interview: David and His Artwork
• David introduces one of his art pieces titled “Memories”, which is one-third of a larger triptych.
• The artwork:
  • Medium: Acrylic on paper, framed uniquely with copper wires instead of traditional framing, reflecting David’s desire to break from convention.
  • David identifies as one of the more abstract artists represented at the gallery known as Wild Banana.
• Discussion highlights:
  • David has exhibited before at the venue, with a full room of his work.
  • He shows another piece nearby, reinforcing the abstract and unconventional style that characterizes his creations.
• The interviewer refers to him as part of the “Wild Banana” collective, a group known for their distinctive art styles.

• [04:39 → 05:36]
  Artist Interview: Deborah DuBois and Her Found Object Sculptures
• Deborah DuBois introduces herself, revealing she has been creating art since October 1999 and is extremely prolific.
• Her medium largely involves found objects, scavenged from dumps, roadsides, and other discarded places, reflecting an environmentally conscious and resourceful approach.
• She comments on the local art market:
  • Initially, locals on the island were reluctant to buy art, but this has changed as the community has grown more engaged and social (“now they buy it because they’re partying and they’re great”).
• Deborah’s art incorporates unusual materials, including:
  • Burnt PVC pipe, glass shards, scrap metal, and old vehicle parts (e.g., from an old Chevy truck).
• She emphasizes the creative transformation of “trash” into artistic objects, highlighting how dumping and waste have long been a problem in Maui, which her art helps address by repurposing discarded materials.

• [06:44 → 08:50]
  Community & Environmental Themes in Deborah’s Work
• Visitors admire Deborah’s work and acknowledge the environmental impact of her artistic process, noting that she effectively cleans up the island’s roadside debris and construction waste by repurposing it.
• Deborah confirms she has thousands of pounds of found materials stored at her home, ready to be turned into more art, underscoring her dedication and prolific output despite time constraints imposed by her regular job.
• She highlights the challenge of time management, balancing art-making with employment, a common reality for many working artists.
• This segment illustrates a strong theme of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and creative reuse embedded in Deborah’s artistic philosophy.

• [09:29 → 11:45]
  Artistic Expression & Social Interaction
• The video captures moments of interaction during the art event or gallery showing, with expressions of admiration for the artists and their work.
• A piece titled “Parade of Lost Souls” is introduced, made from cow bones, which surprises some viewers who initially thought they were dog bones. This adds to the sense of unconventional, thought-provoking materials used in the art.
• Deborah expresses joy in sharing her work and the opportunity to sell pieces, which helps her manage her inventory and continue creating.
• The dialogue acknowledges the importance of community support for local artists and the cultural vibrancy of Maui’s art scene.
• The interviewer, Jason, recognizes Deborah’s presence in the local media and TV, indicating her prominence in the community.
• The artists and interviewer exchange aloha greetings, reinforcing the warmth and friendliness characteristic of Maui culture.

• [12:56 → 14:35]
  Closing Remarks and Final Observations
• The video briefly revisits the theme of found object sculpture, focusing on Deborah’s practice of scouring roadsides and beaches for materials.
• It is noted that this activity contributes to environmental cleanup while fueling creative production.
• The presence of other participants (e.g., Adrian) and the mention of Wild Banana as a hub for these artists reinforce the collective nature of this art community.
• The video ends on a note highlighting the interconnectedness of art, environment, and community in Maui.

Key Insights

• Maui styling represents a cultural identity blending lifestyle, optimism, and local pride.
• David’s abstract art challenges traditional framing and visual norms, reflecting a modern, experimental approach.
• Deborah DuBois exemplifies found object art grounded in environmental consciousness and prolific creativity.
• The art scene in Maui is evolving, with increasing local support and integration of community and environmental themes.
• Use of unusual materials such as bones, scrap metal, and burnt PVC pipe underscores innovation and a connection to place.
• Artists balance creative passion with practical realities such as time constraints and market challenges.
• The collective Wild Banana serves as a cultural and artistic hub fostering diverse, unconventional art forms.

Timeline Table of Major Events/Segments

Definitions and Terms

Summary

This video showcases the vibrant cultural identity known as Maui stylin, a celebration of island life, community strength, and positive spirit. It features two prominent Maui artists: David, an abstract painter who frames his works innovatively with copper wire, and Deborah DuBois, a prolific found object sculptor who transforms discarded materials into compelling art pieces. Deborah’s work highlights the environmental challenges of Maui — especially waste and dumping — and creatively addresses them through art, turning roadside debris and construction waste into visually engaging sculptures. The video captures the lively social atmosphere of a local gallery event, illustrating the growing appreciation for local art and the important role artists play in community and environmental stewardship. The Wild Banana collective emerges as a focal point for these artists, fostering creative freedom and cultural expression. Overall, the content emphasizes the interplay between art, environment, and community within the unique cultural framework of Maui.

Transcript..