I’ve always been into technology, and I’ve always been into painting and the visual arts. Those two subjects are usually very far apart from each other. But my independent research project and the Energy Lab resources allowed me the freedom to integrate my ideas and to see them exactly the way I want them.”
—Michael Ho ’15; B.A., fine arts, UCLA; professional mixed-media artist and painter
If you’ve always wanted to explore the arts, HPA has a wealth of experiences for you to try. The Art Department invites students to explore creativity across visual arts, music, theater, performance, and digital media. Through hands-on studio work, performance, and production experiences, students build skills, develop their artistic voice, and gain confidence as creators. Courses offer opportunities to work with a wide range of materials and formats, from drawing, painting, and mixed media to art history, digital media, film, music, theater, and dance. Students learn through practice, reflection, and feedback, gaining experience with long-term projects, collaboration, and performance — skills that support both personal growth and future academic pathways.
If you’ve loved the arts for as long as you can remember, you’ll feel immediately at home with our faculty, all of whom are practicing, professional artists in their own right. We’ve got the expertise and facilities to support your long-term ambitions, whatever your favorite form of expression may be. Surrounded by the beauty of Hawai‘i Island, an array of island cultures, and a campus full of 400 friends, you’ll surely find inspiration nearby.
Visual Arts (2-D and 3-D)
Build your skills in drawing, painting, and mixed media toward completion (if you wish) of an AP Studio Art portfolio.
Digital Media
Explore everything from content creation and aerial drone footage to photojournalism and fine art photography.
Theatre
Join the excitement of cast and crew on opening night, or take advantage of classes in acting, comedy writing, stagecraft, and more.
Music
Find your voice (or instrument) through classes that cover musicianship, music technology, chorus, and pops and jazz ensemble.
Art History
Study with an experienced curator, who is the director of our Isaacs Art Center, and prepare (if you wish) for the AP Art History exam.
Have questions? Contact our Registrar, Monica Hattoon-Green at mhattoon-green@hpa.edu.
