WHAAM! AT WAINAKU, presented by HIAA and Ola Brew Co.

WHAAM! at Wainaku

Presented by Hawai‘i Island Art Alliance (HIAA) and Ola Brew Co. 

Inspired by the bold color and cultural impact of the Pop Art era, WHAAM! at Wainaku is an immersive fundraiser transforming Ola’s ‘Ōkolehao Distillery into a vibrant, high-energy creative experience. 

On Saturday, May 30, step into a night where culinary artistry, live music, and visual expression intersect – set within a dynamic space at the former Wainaku Executive Center. 

Come dressed to the theme – think bold colors, geometric patterns, innovative costumes, comic-influenced couture. Show up, stand out, and be part of the art.

Every ticket directly supports Hawai‘i Island Art Alliance, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and its work to expand access to arts and cultural programming across Hawai’i Island. 

THE EXPERIENCE

WHAAM! brings together an exceptional lineup of chefs, performances, and artists for a fully immersive evening to engage the senses.

CULINARY ARTISTS 

Ernie Gray (Poke Market) • Brian Hirata (Naʻau) • Mark Pomaski (Moon & Turtle) • Sheldon Simeon (Tin Roof / Tiffany’s) • Jeremy Van Kralingen (Ola Brew Co.)

MUSICAL GUESTS

Hilo Honeys • DJ Thunder Bunny • Yellow Streetlights

VISUAL ARTISTS

Featuring Kristie Fujiyama Kosmides & Danhieux, who will create original works in real time, with opportunities for guests to engage in the creative process. All artworks will be available via silent auction.

OPEN BAR 

A unique cocktail experience curated by Soni Pomaski & Tyson Takiue, in partnership with Ola Brew Co. and Kadota Liquors. Ages 21+ only.

SILENT AUCTION

A thoughtfully curated auction featuring original artworks and unique experiences – offering another way to support the arts while taking home something meaningful. 

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE

VIP Experience – $375 

Early access: 5 to 6 PM 

• Private VIP hour - 1st course with featured chefs, specialty cocktails and entertainment

• Access to the Ola Brew Speakeasy and lounge throughout the evening 

• Special VIP swag items

• First access to the full event experience & silent auction

General Admission – $195

Event: 6 to 9PM

• Entry to full event experience 

• Culinary tastings from featured chefs

• Live music, art, and open bar

The Beacon Sponsorship - $7,500

These sponsors light the way for HIAA's cause, allowing us the capacity to activate spaces and places in Hilo, because we believe art can be an engine for economic vitality, rural resilience, and human connection. This sponsorship includes:

• Reserved Table with 6 VIP Experiences;

• Company logo on WHAAM! recap video, event lanyard, printed assets, and prominently displayed at event

• 6 Custom Personalized WHAAM! Art Prints, in addition to VIP swag bags

• Professional Group Photo - On canvas or framed

• Verbal Acknowledgement at WHAAM!

• Social Media Mentions as Sponsor

• Access to Media Package for Promotional Use

All guests enjoy full access to food, beverages, live art, and performances, along with swag items. Tickets are extremely limited and expected to sell out. 

DRESS CODE

Pop art, interpreted your way. 

Channel Andy Warhol’s repetition and vibrant colors, Roy Lichtenstein’s bold graphics and primary colors, Yayoi Kusama's iconic polka dots, or create your own personal statement. Indulge in the endless inspiration from this era - at WHAAM!, you’re the canvas.

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

This is more than a night out; it’s a party with a purpose. WHAAM! is inspired by the Pop Art era of the 50’s and 60’s, which broke down barriers between everyday culture and fine art, making creative expression feel accessible rather than exclusive. By drawing inspiration from advertising, comics, and mass media, Pop Artists showed that art can come from familiar, shared experiences—an idea that aligns directly with HIAA’s efforts to broaden community engagement. For HIAA, this legacy reinforces the value of meeting audiences where they are, using recognizable imagery and contemporary themes to invite participation, spark dialogue, and ensure the arts feel relevant and welcoming to diverse communities across Hawai’i Island.

HIAA is rooted in the belief that the arts belong to everyone. Proceeds from WHAAM! support: 

• Expanding access to arts and cultural programming 

• Creating economic opportunities for local artists 

• Sustaining the team that makes this work possible 

The arts provide connection, healing, and economic opportunity. Your presence and support helps ensure this continues across the island.