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Art After Dark
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Art Galleries Shopping Art Galleries Local Flavour Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Art Galleries, Local Flavour, Music Venues [Edit]
Honolulu Academy of Arts - Last Friday Of Each Month900 S Beretania St
Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 532-8700
- Hours:
Fri 6 pm - 9 pm
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
32 reviews for Art After Dark
32 reviews in English
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Review from Blake M.
Aiea, HI
1/28/2012
Moneyball: It's fun and a great fundraiser for the Art Academy.
Makes: Think of it as a donation, not an entrance fee ($10). Sign up to become a member ($55), especially if you are a student ($20). I didn't read the benefits you receive but for the rest of the year your $10 is waived for subsequent Art After Dark events. It's fun for many - art enthusiasts, relax after a long week of work, see old friends, sit back and enjoy the sights or venture out and meet new beautiful people, dress up according to the month's theme...it's what you make of it.
Misses: Parking. I search for street parking, too cheap to pay. It can get pretty crowded so you may find yourself wasting a lot of time in the drink lines. And c'mon bartenders...do not count your tips in front of all the customers...do your job, serve drinks, count and divide your tips later. If I was I charge would have fired that bartender right there in front of everyone and served drinks in his spot...I wouldn't have needed any bartending experience to serve one of two types of beer or wine.
Food/drinks: Food is expensive so I haven't eaten there yet. They have more affordable food booths around, nothing that looks good so eat before or after. Drinks: cocktails, wine, beer. They typically feature two types of one brand of beer/wine. For example, a dark and a light beer from Kona Brewing, or Aloha Brewery.
I look forward to the last Friday of the month to head to Art After Dark. It's just a bummer I work on Saturday otherwise I could continue a fun night with friends! -
Review from Pie C.
12/20/2011 14 Check-ins Here
I was introduced to this place by my old neighbor that always goes to every art after dark event, and I have to say the place is pretty cool. I love art and I appreciate the art that the local people made.
I definitely recommend this place for people that loves art.Listed in: Getaway!
-
Review from Sean M.
Honolulu, HI
5/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
First time here and I must say, I will be back. Hero and Villains was the theme. Cool people and good music. A nice change from the same o same night club bull$h#t.
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Review from aldora k.
Honolulu, HI
4/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
If you like Art, wine and being in a social environment... I recommend going to Art after Dark at least to check it out if you haven't gone before. Idk what other people were thinking, but I really enjoy attending Art After Dark because there are different sections in the Art Academy that makes you stop and stare while having good conversations with people you love being around and sipping wine or some alcoholic beverage. The last time I attended, I was amazed how one section in the court yard had a pow wow show. I am not a member of the Art Academy, but I am going to be a member soon so I can get into the event which is held once a month for free. I think it is worth it.
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Review from NIKKI F.
Honolulu, HI
10/29/2011
Art After Dark - my first experience of you on Halloween absolutely won't be my last.
You welcomed me into your cavernous beauty, to explore the delights that await in your hidden courtyards which can only be found with a keen sense of adventure. I set forth not knowing what awaited me!
Between my forays onto your fun filled, packed dance floors and you offered many respite stops so I could enjoy your delicious libations that quenched my thirst.
I followed your corridors into a world of aesthetic loveliness. Every corner delivered a new surprise and unveiled an unknown possibility. Time in your lofty halls left me feeling like I'd traveled a million miles and yet I'd only come a few blocks. -
Review from Emiko T.
8/30/2011
Seeing as there are only really two big nights of dolled-up, dapper-dressed, somewhat elitist nights on the island, Art After Dark is a perfect way to wrap up your month while feeling the excitement of more debauchery to come in just another week with the First Friday of the following month. Note to the stylish: dress up and even get into the month's theme; you'll feel foolish walking in with board shorts.
If you're a student you get a SWEET member deal of paying $20 one time but every time after that is free for a whole year. I love when they actually acknowledge that we're literally a starving group sometimes. Also when you're a member you get to skip the long line that I always hear about (but have yet to see) and go straight in.
Once you go in the options to explore are endless. The courtyards all have different DJs and even live bands. There are always small bars with a few choices of generic wine and beer and also a specialty drink of the month. There are even some colored spotlights illuminating the yards to really set the mood. You're sure to run into people that you may or may not want to see, but that's Oahu for you. But even more than First Friday, Art After Dark tends to draw all walks of life, not just the young "hip" crowd, which is a nice change of pace.
Exploring the museum is so much more fun (and somehow more mischievous) at night so take full advantage of that and go have fun. (But just don't take pictures inside the galleries, you'll get in trouble). I'm even surprised they allow tipsy people inside the same rooms with ancient Roman statues and a Monet--it seems like quite the liability if you ask me.
Yelp challenge: #26/365 -
Review from Diane Y.
5/6/2011
You know how cynics say that church is where people go to compare outfits once a week? Well, think of Art After Dark as church for hipsters and, for lack of a cleverer term, people who need hip replacements. There is usually a sprinkling of college kids, but it's mostly the 60+ crowd. The place is overrun with frightening, skeletal, tanned-to-beef-jerky old women who dress as if they think they're 20-something prostitutes. Ghastly.
The food is overpriced, and will probably be cold by the time you get any, so snack first.
The art isn't on a frequent rotation, so even though this event occurs only once a month, it's unlikely that you'll see much new art month to month. Every month has a different theme, and once there was a Beatles cover band and dancing. Another time there were monks making sand art (mandalas, not that stuff you find at Target). Check out the website to see if the theme/activities interest you. It's always too crowded though, so avoid at all costs if you're claustrophobic. -
Review from Krissy K.
7/3/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Does enjoying AAD make me a wannabe hipster? Yes, it can get uncomfortably crowded, but I always love places and events that draw a diverse mix of people. The zip tours are a nice way to check out the exhibits, and each courtyard has something going on.
One of my complaints is the food service. Granted, I am apparently the only person on this island who's unimpressed by the food at Town, but I'm not talking about the quality. What I can't stand is how quickly they run out of food. I don't understand how they do this event month after month and fail to properly plan for the crowds.
Bring lots of cash, come early if you can, and wear comfortable shoes. -
Review from Kyle C.
Pearl City, HI
1/24/2012 3 Check-ins Here
This event is a nice change from the club and bar scene. There's art to be seen, music to be heard and dance too, and food and drinks to enjoy while in this great atmosphere.
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Review from Kai B.
9/5/2011
ART + MUSIC + FOOD & DRINKS
-- need to kno yo --
- charge $10 cover
- need to pay for parking
- only on the last friday of each month
- should always look up what the theme will be
-- oooouu yeeeah --
there is a range in people and ages (there are a few kids, but not many). it's a good reason to dress up! good date night idea...or just something different to do after a long week/month. i think they typically serve catered food (that you need to pay for).
there is interactive media :D
-- ugh --
not really a place to "hangout", but people go more for the atmosphere. there isn't a lot of places to sit. there is a limited selection of drinks/food.
-- little insights --
i look forward to going, mainly because it's something different each time, and it's relatively mellow. the themes really make a difference, so sometimes it's best to see what the theme is before deciding whether to go (if in case it's a theme that doesn't exactly float your boat). -
Review from Brian B.
Honolulu, HI
5/5/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Art After Dark is one of the more interesting social venues on our wonderful island. It happens on the last friday of every month(except for December & January?) and runs from 6pm~9pm at the Honolulu Academy of Arts... That's right, at the Honolulu Academy of Arts!
But don't be surprised, because overall this is probably one of the better ideas for getting people around the college graduate/young professionals age to come out and get partially exposed to culture and the arts. Now, I'm not gonna come out and say that every theme they have for their events is all that great BUT when you find one that suits your taste it's well worth going and dealing with the crowd.
The most recent Art After Dark that I went to featured Hip Hop as its exhibit. I know you're probably thinking of some stupid & lame ass crappy rapper that you hear on the radio, hearing "hip hop" but this wasn't the type they were showcasing. At this event they had some break dancers and a live band that plays hip hop as well as I believe a DJ. Unfortunately, I don't recall seeing a freestyle battle(where 2 MCs come up with a freestyle flow and have essentially a "rap debate" against each other to a beat) or a DJ competition/exhibition. I also didn't really get a chance to see any of the exhibits in the galleries that they designate for the Art After Dark events but I'm sure they were decent.
At these events, the most prominent thing you'll notice is that it kinda feels like a bar atmosphere which can be a good & bad thing. The good thing is that you can tell it's a social event meant for people to have a good time. The bad thing is that it would seem like there's less emphasis on people coming together for a common theme and more because of the scene and being seen. In most cases though, the food fits the same theme as the theme for the night too, so at least you get to try something different.
My honest recommendation is to check out the website for this venue and see what the theme is before deciding whether or not to go and check it out. Find something that you're interested in, and go absorb everything about it with friends if possible. If not, it may not be worth it to go to this as it's just gonna feel like another night at the bar but with a more "artsy fartsy" slant. -
Review from Gemma R.
5/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Tips: $10.00 entry, come early cuz parking is ridiculous, cash bars, items for purchase (food, drinks, trinkets etc...)
Four bars total: one w/beer & wine only, and the others were full bar. $5.00 well drinks, $7.00 drink special (Marrakech Express - sloe berry vodka, lime, soda) and these bars were spread through the buildings. *cute bartender or worker... Had a town shirt lol
Food for purchase/provided by: Town (Wai'alae) I happened to meet the son (adorable little kid & great walking advertisement) of the restaurant owner, who raved about how good the food was... I didn't understand why they had full plated meals instead of pupus considering the lack of eating areas. Imagine having to eat standing and balancing your drink!
Vibe: mix crowd. I still don't get why this is an all age event. I wouldn't want my kids (if I had any) watching a bunch of drunk inappropriately dressed cougars getting down or have any old men hit on these underage girls.
Art: spread throughout the building, one exhibit was closed off tonight, drinks & food are not allowed in the exhibits - which makes people have to decide whats more important, the art or your drink? Drinks obviously win and the exhibits seemed pretty empty.
Overall review: could be better planned, Drinks should be allowed in the exhibits, there should be an age limitation, I loved the art & the building/courtyard so I give it 4 stars. -
Review from Scott K.
2/26/2011
Personally I thought this was a fantastic group or date idea! $10 for live music and artists galore! It's not something a teenager might appreciate, but for those of you who like to go out and feel a little like an adult every now and then without breaking the bank... this is it!
Dress up, drink some wine, watch some musicians and haunt a museum and it's green courtyards by starlight! It's a spectacular roaming venue with strong concentration on some really fantastic Asian and Middle Eastern art. And I for one, loved it!
I could have sat in the grass people watching all night!
Well done! -
Review from Fawn L.
Honolulu, HI
7/28/2011
The only reason I'm giving AAD 4 instead of 5 stars is because sometimes their themes flat out suck while others (like Halloween) are 10 star nights.
I LOVE AAD. I've been coming here off & on for the last year on a student membership ($20 per year - super reasonable considering their $10 cover).
What most people won't tell you is that they don't go to look at the art (it rarely changes). People (myself included) go to drink in a groovy, kickin' atmosphere surrounded by beautiful people. The themes are wonderful. I've met the most wonderful people here. Some reviews say that the crowd is 60+. I've never seen that. The crowd is mostly 30-40 somethings, with some college kids and some older. People are usually very friendly.
CONS: pricey food & drinks. Parking is a bitch. Food is good, but not worth the wait or price. Eat beforehand. Their specialty cocktails are pricey, usually $7-10. Go with beer or wine around $4-5.
Go on a 3 day weekend or Halloween weekend. You'll have a blast. -
Review from Emi H.
8/24/2010
I just had to write this review in response to the multiple negative reviews which have been written so far about ArtAfterDark. I'm not sure if anyone remembers what the Academy of Arts was like before ArtAfterDark, but I'm sure that's because no one ever went there. Except in the 5th grade for a field trip. Oh and that one time with Grandma. But seriously, you may have your complaints about ArtAfterDark (the club atmosphere, the lack of people actually there to enjoy art, the horrid food served in different phases, the bad entertainment, the overpriced drinks which take forever to get) but at least it is getting a younger demographic of people to come out to the Academy and make it cool again. I'd rather be at ArtAfterDark than a club anyday!
You can complain that people don't understand the exhibits or that things aren't perfectly themed but have you ever tried to plan an event for a few thousand people on a very limited budget? I have, and its freakin' hard to do it month after month. Considering the event is put together almost solely by volunteers (who really aren't event planners at all) I am amazed at what they're able to put out month after month like clockwork! In a down economy where the arts are hurting, I'd like to hope that ArtAfterDark is providing the Academy with much needed funding and visibility in the community.
In the end the whole point of a museum is for works of art to be shown to people. Ideally lots and lots of people, who are not just your Grandma. And ArtAfterDark gets those people in there with promises of liquor, hook-ups and entertainment. Is that so wrong? Perhaps, but I went to the Academy for free Family Sunday with my kiddies a few months back and trust me...art with cocktails is waaaay more fun. -
Review from mark m.
1/29/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Now this is something cool and new to keep us occupied once a month. I had heard about Art After Dark for some time but I never thought to go. Now that my gf is an aspiring art major I decided to bring in the new year with an event that did her major proud.
There were a lot of people there when we showed up at 630. We picked up a glass of wine and off we went looking at the exhibits. We unfortunately didn't see the main exhibit where the "rabbit" art was supposed to be, but we did see almost everything else. We even saw the lion dance. That was pretty cool.
As people have stated before, the crowd here is so much different than that of say Oceans, Pearl, or any bar I've been to. And that's a great thing. Sure some people just go to drink and don't really care about art but the ratio of those people versus actual art loving people seemed very low.
We agreed to make this a monthly outing for us. Maybe next time we can actually find the main art exhibit.
Or maybe we'll just go to drink. -
Review from Crystal L.
Aiea, HI
9/1/2010
I'm not saying I'm old but I'm not that young either. Hitting the clubs on the weekends have become a little tiring for me...same people out, chicks with the newest LV, boys trying to prove themselves, fights, vomit, loud non-conversational music, drunken people stepping on my feet... Of course it's not all like that but you know what I mean. Thank you thank you for alternative events such as Art After Dark. AAD happens on every last friday of the month. I went to my first event in July and we came there at 7pm...no parking!! We had to park far away and catch a cab so for the August Wonder years event, we arrived at 6 :) The line may seem long but it moves quickly.
The event is only 3 hours but that's enough time to see the exhibits, make friends, talk, stand in the long liquor/food line, play games, etc. Only one exhibit gets changed so if you go monthly, it will take you less time to see the art unless you want to see the same exhibits again. Once you go through the front, the academy splits into two. You can go left and right and there are separate things to see in both wings. There were two DJs who spun awesome music!
The crowd is a little older like mid-20s and up and so CLASSY! What a great idea to get people to come see art! The academy of arts must finally be making money! haha I love how everyone is in club/party wear looking at art!! I LOVE art!! This event is my dream come true. No staggering guy with eyes rolled into his head bothering me, no stilettos stabbing the top of my feet, and no doggie paddling through the crowd - just beautiful art, sophisticated people and good music! And what? I can actually talk to and hear my friends?? ^_^ For the wonder years event, they even had video games :)
The only negative is that the food/liquor is a little expensive and takes forever to get but you can always pre-game and eat dinner after. The food is not that great but I'm surprised they can even provide food cause they don't have a restaurant - i think...
And everyone is pretty much there with their friends so its cliquey and not conducive to making friends. But I'm sure if you wanted to, you can make a friend there. I mean I'll be at the next event so just come say hi to me!
TIP: Become a member if you plan on going to AAD a lot because it's totally worth it! AAD cost $10/event but membership is only $55 or $20 for students for the WHOLE year! And like a VIP, you will get to walk straight in! -
Review from Janice U.
8/24/2010
If you took Ocean's 808 (the former "Ocean Club" at Restaurant Row), stuck it inside of an art gallery or museum, and removed the majority of the Asian townies and stuck in more haoles and wannabe "art snobs," then you'd have ArtAfterDark.
When these monthly themed events came into creation more than five years ago, I thought it'd finally attract a youthful, thoughtful, and intelligent crowd of people who'd go there to truly appreciate the artwork. Was thinking this'd also make the art world more accessible to local folks since art tends to be associated with those in the upper echelon of things (a.k.a. "rich folks").
Drink, dance, mingle, blah, blah, blah, but the art would be the belle of the ball. The forefront of this event. The Big Kahuna.
Me thinks not.
Imagine my disappointment afterwards once a few of these events have taken place. I rave about the event to my bf and friends, we go & discover only a handful of people walking through the galleries, admiring the sculptures, reading the history of these artists, etc.
The majority of the folks are out in the courtyard dancing, flirting and imbibing. 90% of the people would much rather get their freaky deaky on, their eat on, or their alcohol on than get their art on.
Sad, sad, sad for this former UH art major, artist & art appreciator.
People could care less about the art --- the attraction of this event: people are mingling/socializing/clubbing in a unique venue that's not a bar, restaurant, or a club. Plain & simple.
Food & drinks are expensive, portions are manini (seriously, even a supermodel would throw a tantrum at the piddly portions you get), and people that come here probably figure that they're becoming "art appreciators" through osmosis.
I've stopped coming to these events, stopped recommending them to others & don't even bother reading the advertisements anymore. Go to First Friday cuz at least you no need pay one cover charge.Listed in: Overhyped, Overhyped,…
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Review from Murray B.
10/4/2010
I have always enjoyed Art After Dark. You visit one of the better museums in Honolulu (aka the Honolulu Academy of Arts) on the last Friday night of most months. Why go than? Because the museum volunteers have put together a fun party for your enjoyment! The last one I attended was themed around "running with the bulls", therefore spanish food, cocktails and beers were all being sold. They even projected previous footage from the actual event in Spain onto one of the courtyard walls. They also offered other interesting activities like sketch artists willing to do portraits of people or the opportunity to participate in a gallery hunt to win museum passes, food and drink.
The beauty of this event is you and your friends can make it what you want. You are interested in lots of time in the galleries but don't want to go far for a snack and a drink? How about just walking out into the adjacent courtyard and getting some refreshments there? You're completely worn out from work and you're not really in the mood to analyze sculptures, paintings or anything else? That's fine. Grab a cocktail, kick back at one of the tables, listen to the dj and catch up with friends. No matter what your approach, pat yourself on the back because by attending you are supporting the arts.
A couple of tips:
1)If you don't get there early, sometimes the line to get in can be long. You can skip the line entirely if you are a museum member. You can even become a member the same night as the party
2)There's enough different courtyards that you can wander around until you find the one that suits you (more chill, buzzing with energy, etc.) -
Review from Jessie D.
1/30/2011
So, what's one to do on a Friday night in Chinatown that's not First Friday?
STARE AT MORE ART!
The Academy of Art holds a special event on the LAST Friday of the month (BIG difference) where the usual art found in the Academy is countered by special events going around in the various courtyards of the premises.
I've frequented more of these things that I could possibly remember, so I figure I'd write up a review.
FIRST MAJOR TIP: GET THERE EARLY.
This is one of those events that gets full quickly. Also, you have to factor in the parking situation, which is spread between a set of designated lots and street parking. I'd tell you where I park, but... there's just some things you don't divulge in public.
SECOND MAJOR TIP: PLAN OUT YOUR BAR/FOOD TRIPS
I know it might sound weird, but navigate around the various courtyards first before heading into the exhibits. The exhibits aren't going anywhere. This will save you time later on, as yo don't have to be stumbling around in the dark (and/or drunk) trying to look for the food area (hint: most times, it's in the BIG courtyard in the back, next to the fountain. You're welcome.)
Also, the second reason to know this is because this year, for 2011, they've decided to open a "Members-Only" bar in the middle. Don't waste time there unless you're a member. Meanwhile, the auxiliary bars in the side courtyards have different offerings (most times), so take some time to figure out what's good at both.
THIRD MAJOR TIP: NO DRINKS IN THE EXHIBITS
Let's just say... no one likes shotgunning wine. Ever.
FOURTH MAJOR TIP: ROTATING SCHEDULE OF THEMES
The hella fun part of ArtAfterDark has always been the innovative themes. This year celebrated Chinese New Year, and featured Lion Dancing, paper firecrackers, Jai, and fortune cookies. Looking forward to what they got planned for the rest of the year.
As an aside, I'm highly debating just signing up for a membership to the Academy. An individual membership is $55 and includes free admission into ArtAfterDark + access to the Members-Only Bar. Non-members pay $10 at the door to get in. I think that if the trend of great events continue, I might consider just getting a membership & saving money on entrance. -
Review from Seleena H.
Honolulu, HI
12/12/2009
Roam the dreamy and beautifully lit courtyards and hidden crevices of Honolulu Academy of Arts at night! With sexy cocktail attire and live music that usually makes you want to dance, Art After Dark is always a classy party where those interested in art and music gather once a month.
The food is usually catered by one or two of Honolulu's hottest restaurants. The last few times I went, I munched on some pupus from Indigo. The downside? The food and drinks are over-priced and far from generous.
The upside is the fact that you get to roam the galleries and the various courtyards in between bar drinks and dance sessions. What isn't there to like about that? -
Review from Satoru Y.
7/18/2007
Wow, what a disaster.
The atmosphere is quite confused. Mystical Sounds does the music for this thing. Their taste of music for an art event is clashing to say the least. I guess nothing says art and its appreciation like booty and 80's music. People are getting down all over the place. Usually I think that's great, but this is an art gallery. I don't wanna see people grinding on one another at an museum. It plays out more like a school dance than anything else. Classy.
The patrons seemed more intent on getting a drink than looking at the art. People kept pushing their way to desperately line up for a drink. I somehow question the wisdom of keeping allowing the sometimes visibly drunken patrons to freely roam the exhibits.
I saw a many of guys blantantly scoping for girls. It almost seems like a niteclub than an art event. I kept seeing guys eyes scanning across the way, and it sure wasn't to look at the art.
Is there something I'm missing? Is the Academy of Art that in need of money?
Maybe somewhere in this is a statement being made? A statement against the bourgeois stagnation of art? A statement of the disconnect of art with the people? A statement that even an art museum could be made into a bar?
You take your pick.
A better experience would be found at First Friday Art Walk than here; the difference is like comparing New Orlean's Jazz Festival to Mardi Gras. -
Review from Lisa K.
Honolulu, HI
8/24/2010 2 Check-ins Here
For a mom who cares about giving her preschooler something fun and educational we can do together, Art After Dark hits the spot.
Unlike First Friday, which often becomes a beligerent mess of drunken masses, Art After Dark is slower, sleeker and sexier, yet still family-friendly.
They invest the time to give a holistically themed event - from music, to food, to entertainment - and it makes for a great time with learning opportunities for all. Whether it's Salsa night or a Bali celebration, my daughter and I rock out in the courtyard and tour the galleries, checking out new exhibits or the hands-on activities they have every now and then (I wish they had more). It's just plain fun.
What makes it even better - being able to grab a drink and food and make it a night out, without the typical clubiness that gets so mundane.
If you're looking for snob appeal, visit during the day with your art school friends. This is not the venue for you. But if you're looking for something fun, different and relatively low-cost, this is the place to be. -
Review from Ka'ili H.
8/28/2010
Got my Art After Dark cherry popped last night and it felt oh so good!!!
The theme for the night was "The Wonder Years," taking you back to old school days when you/we were younger. Music by the DJ started off with early 90's going back into the 80's, the dance floor was popping towards the end of the night!
I went with one of my friends I haven't seen in awhile and since it was our first time we wanted to jump on the "free parking" they had listed on their website. We got to the Academy of Arts at around 6:15pm, which we soon learned a GREAT IDEA. We walked around a bit then headed to the food area, entitled: The Cafeteria.
FOOD: We were served a pasta with marinara sauce, mushrooms, and some kind of meat, sliced fresh pineapple, green beans with grape tomatoes, and a caramel chocolate brownie. It was pretty good, the pineapples were aweseomely sweet but the brownie was WAY too sweet & sugary for us. I loved the veggie side, it had a garlic taste to it.
We small talk with the guys who sat down next to us and soon learned that though it was a different crowd we were used to, most people were friendly and there to socialize. We walked around a bit trying to get oriented and noticed it got crowded pretty fast. We went to the front table and learned that there would be a "Field Trip" tour by Maleko in five minutes so we partook in an old school field trip.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Field Trip: this was great because he talked about the areas of the museum that they set up, where the bars were, dance floor, went around to this HUGE POSTER board for anyone and everyone to contribute their own kind of art, (great idea), showed us the "middle school dance area (super cute), pointed out the bathrooms and also talked about the exhibits too. And the whole time he was talking it was just like going on a field trip, not JUST a tour.
There was an old school spelling bee they put on for those who wanted to try and win an annual membership.
PEOPLE: There is such a diversity of people that come here. Those who dress up and dress casual. I bumped into several people I haven't seen in ages which was great!! I even saw a girl wearing a "bump it," asian snooky maybe???? perhaps.
Exhibits: Going to Art After Dark was a great decision for me. It's also a smart way to get this age group out and into the museum to see what they have there. It's hard for many busy people to make it out to the museum during their regular hours, so to entice us with themes, food, drinks, dancing, whatever it is that hooks us to get us in there, I give major props to these guys that host this event.
EVEN if we just stumble on an exhibit it's HOT and sticky outside, and we just want to cool down, you can end up actually learning something valuable. Also, the docents in the exhibits are super friendly and WANT to tell you about what is being showcased. My friend and I learned about snuff bottles, history, process, the TALENT & mediums used. Just amazing.
All in all this was a GREAT experience! These volunteers are creative, an imaginative. I know I will go back for another taste of this awesome event. I'm looking forward to their: 7 deadly sins event. -
Review from war k.
Honolulu, HI
9/4/2009
It was cool to roam the place and check out the art since I do enjoy good art. Though you can't bring your drinks into the galleries, you need to pound them outside. The music was cool and the crowd was mostly non-local which was when we went. But it was cool.
Some people brought their kids, which was nice to see families, but I think it was inappropriate, especially when people were freaking on each other. The crowd is mellow and very controlled. It was crowded and we did stand in line for a drink.
Overall it was pretty good, mostly because of the galleries. We parked across the street. -
Review from Sheryl S.
Honolulu, HI
3/1/2009
I already can't wait for next month's Art After Dark!!!
I'll be honest, I love staring at art while I'm basically buzzed. Somehow, almost to the point of being on shrooms, the art starts speaking?!?
Other info:
- Come early. It's done at 9pm.
- Parking is a bitch, especially when the Blaisdell has functions going on at the same time.
- pretty much the yuppie crowd. -
Review from bryan d.
Honolulu, HI
8/24/2010
I am going to have to join Emi and fight the negative response trend on here.
If you soley want to look at art then this is not going to be the spot for you. Yes there will be an area for dancing, many people will be there that are there for more of the social aspect but it is all about what you are looking for.
If you want a place to look at art be in social environment with some music and have an early spot this is a great choice. The crowd is also very different from most of the crowd you see at the clubs which is also nice.
Because there is so many different areas to go you can choose if you want quiet, loud, medium, dancing or whatever you are in the mood for.
I never miss art after dark anymore and I recommend to try it.
WARNING: If you want just a very quiet place for art only then this is not the spot.
Hope this helps some of you out ;) -
Review from Esteban W.
Honolulu, HI
1/21/2010
You probably seen me at AAD, I was probably one of the guys strappin an un-rip-able paper tag on your arm. I love workin the AAD events, and it allowed me, a newbie to Oahu to make some decent friends and meet new people. The event happens early in the night, and if you're a hater, its because you're supposed to party it up downtown afterwards. If you got issues with buying drinks, pre-game prior to going and enjoy some culture - be decent and presentable, and for Hawaii thats as easy as not throwing up all over your aloha shirt. AAD is an enjoyable event, so leave your drunk-college-girl attitude at home. This event is not really for kids either with the booze and loud music, and if you're THAT kind of person, I'm going to call CPS next time I see you.
Listed in: Night Rider, 2011 Best Of Honolulu Magazine
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Review from Marisa O.
11/18/2009
I was between two and three stars here. I mean, it's truer to its name than first friday, but it's still full of pretentious people who come simply to get drunk in a gallery. Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem with drinking, but I do have a problem with events that are supposed to be one thing, but come off as something completely different. There is an entrance fee, which did bring it down that extra half a star (after all First Friday is free). But the art is can be very interesting and it can be fun depending on the exhibits.
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Review from Nani S.
Kailua, HI
4/28/2009
After hearing about Art After Dark for a long time, we finally made it to last Friday's event. We have been looking for an alternative to the stagnant club-hopping scene and this venue served as a lively and cultured substitute. There was a guest DJ by the name of DJ Rekha from London, via New York who infused hip-hop with an Indian vibe. Many guests turned out in India-inspired attire.
Each little courtyard featured a bar...all the help you need to zone out on the fabulous art displays. A woman sang seductively in one of the courtyards that seriously reminded me of a Shakespeare In Love type of movie. It was complete with a large, beautiful tree in the center adorned with flowing ribbons.
Yes, everyone was checking everyone else out. But aside from that, there were people truly enjoying themselves and having a great time.
The only drawback was having to pay $7 for a thimble of food from E & O Trading Co. Although the cost was only $10 for non-Academy members, I'd price it at moderate once you pay for food and drinks. -
Review from Darrell S.
Waianae, HI
6/7/2009
It's been awhile since I last went to the Academy of Arts so this event did create an extra incentive to revisit.
The band rocked, "Dead Beats" (didn't match their name) surprisingly sophisticated musicians with a unique sound brought life to the usually quiet atmosphere. Really enjoyed looking at most of the art after a glass of wine and some appetizers. The contemporary Hawaii artists was quite inspiring and the overall museum has change since I last went. Francisco Goya's prints were also on display, morbid scenes of war made my stomach turn, so maybe some art should be seen before wine and food.
It's sort of like an outdoor/ indoor bar scene, has a dance floor but refreshing with fresh air and kids and adults dancing together.
My friends have been making this a monthly must do and I can see why. Count me in, still have to finish my gallery tour of the art and nice people of Honolulu. -
Review from Roya K.
Fairfield, CA
3/27/2010
*sigh* I write this with a very heavy heart.
I cannot tell you all how stoked I was when I saw that Art After Dark was holding a Noruz celebration. For those of you who aren't familiar, Noruz is the Persian (Iranian) new years. For the past two years that I have lived here in HI, I have missed spending Noruz with my Iranian father. So when I saw that something was going on in Hawaii, I was very happy to attend. I even called up my good ol' Dad and told him that I was going to a Noruz activity.
Alright, so I walk in, and let me tell you I was instantly won over. Right as you enter was a BEAUTIFULLY set up Haft Sin, which is a spread containing symbols that are to represent good things/wishes for the upcoming year. Whoever put it together did a fantastic job. Seeing that in combination with the Persian music being piped in was enough to make me feel choked up- which is not an easy thing to do.
I made my straight into it to watch the Puppets show. That too was done pretty well, though they probably should have found a bigger room to hold it in. The actors in the play were clearly into what they were doing, and they should be proud of themselves for entertaining that packed, sweltering hot room. Kudos to them. Thank you for a cute little show.
So, you're probably saying "Roya, it sounds like you had a fantastic time! What's with a TWO star review?" Well, to start I just got the feeling that aside from the Haft Sin and the play, not much else was there to represent the holiday. No Baba Noruz walking around? Couldn't they at least have had something up explaining a bit more about the holiday? I think what really broke my heart though, was (as someone else has mentioned) that people seem to use this as an excuse to drink. Now please- don't get me wrong, as you can see from my reviews, I am NOT opposed to drinking. I do however think that there is a time and a place, and this was not it. The more I walked around, the more I had drunk, obnoxious people bumping into me, clearly not appreciating what Noruz is, or that in Iranian culture you're not really supposed to drink. (Hypocrite! you say!- again folks, time and a place!) Maybe I am being overly sensitive because this was something meaningful to me, but I found it disrespectful to the culture: to my culture. Another thing I was excited for: PERSIAN FOOD. Oh! To my knowledge there aren't any Persian restaurants in HI (if I am wrong, someone let me know), so many of you may not know the JOY that is this cuisine! If ever you have the opportunity, try it! Back to my story: I go to the khoresht (stew) line, and order myself up some khoresht bademjahn. The girl looked at me like I was speaking Farsi.... OK, but only two words! She was only in charge of scooping up one of two dishes (khoresht bademjan or khoresht gheymeh). She finally grabbed the little sign, looked at it, pointed to what I had ordered and said "uh this one?" That kinda made me smile, but come on! "Oh,and we're out of rice!" WHAT???? OUT OF RICE?! *biggest sigh ever* I paid $6 for one scoop of khoresht with no rice. I don't care though, the khoresht still like soul food for me.
Well, like I said before, I write this with a heavy heart. I think this had some potential to be very nice, but just strayed off into the wrong direction. Let me say this: One star goes to the Puppets crew- I enjoyed their show. The second star goes to the beautiful Haft Sin. Thank you to the person or persons who put it together. Other than those two things, the night was a bust for me. So sad.
