Hawaii Forest Industry Association's 2010 Wood Show opens to the public tomorrow at the Honolulu Academy of Art Center at Linekona Gallery.

The 18th annual statewide juried show is a chance to see Hawaii's diverse range of woods crafted into remarkable works — from utilitarian furniture to fine-art sculptures — made only from Hawaii-grown hardwoods such as koa, mango, kamani, milo, and kiawe.

Competing for the Award of Excellence will be seven artists — Joel Bright, R.W. Butts, Bob Holden, Tai Lake, Frank McClure, R.W. Scheurenbrand, and Alan Wilkinson.

At the opening reception tonight, the Hawai'i Department of Agriculture will present the show's first Koa: Standing the Test of Time award. The winner will be selected from nominations received over the past several months.

“Hawaii’s Woodshow is the preeminent Woodshow for anyone who may appreciate the beauty and versatility of Hawaii’s woods,” said Heather Gallo, executive director, Hawai’i Forest Industry Association.

“This show features Hawaii’s most talented wood artists while giving us an opportunity to promote Hawaii-grown wood art and educate the public on sustainable forestry practices.”

Many of the beautifully crafted pieces will be available for purchase throughout the show.

Hawaii Wood Show 2010 will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays, March 27 through April 11, 2010.

Admission is free; a $5 donation at the door is suggested to help HFIA in its efforts to promote and protect healthy and productive forests in Hawaii.

hawaiiforest.org/woodshow/woodshow.html