Artist Statement

My work is rooted in the exploration of color as both a visual and cultural

language. Growing up in Jordan and now living in Honolulu, Hawai'i, my artistic

journey bridges the landscapes and traditions of two distinct regions. I focus on

conceptual fashion, and portrait photography, but my current project delves

deeper into the natural world, specifically Hawaii's plants.

Through photography, I seek to capture the beauty, ecological importance, and

cultural significance of these plants, transforming them into symbols that speak to

Hawaii’s rich history. I manipulate colors to connect my subjects to traditional

Hawaiian color symbolism, which has historically represented power, life,

spirituality, and the natural cycles.

My process blends documentation with a conceptual approach, allowing each

image to evoke a sense of time, place, and narrative. By reinterpreting colors and

shifting their context, I hope to engage viewers in a conversation about the role of

nature, tradition, and symbolism in the modern world. Each photograph I create

is a reimagining of the natural world as a living canvas, where cultural memory

and ecological beauty intertwine.

SHEIKA ALGHEZAWI CV

Education

• Academy of Arts University, San Francisco, CA: Master of Arts, Photography - Present

• Yarmouk University, Jordan:  Bachelor of Arts, Graphic Design

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

John Young Museum of Art and University Galleries at UH Mānoa

Educational Specialist (Associate Gallery Director)

Sep 2022 - Present

As the Educational Specialist and Associate Gallery Director at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, I play a key role in the institution's largest gallery and museum. My responsibilities span exhibition development and planning, where I ensure high-quality thematic content, and comprehensive administrative support for gallery, museum, and exhibition operations. I manage the permanent collection with precise documentation, condition reports, and loan agreements, and oversee the safe transportation of exhibit items. Additionally, I contribute to grant application preparation, facilitate scholarly access to study collections, and coordinate digitization efforts. Proficient in exhibition management software, I also direct marketing and communication strategies, cultivate partnerships with corporate sponsors and community stakeholders, and lead public relations campaigns that secure local and national media coverage.

Bishop Museum

Advancement Operations Manager

Jan 2019 – Aug 2022

As the Advancement Operations Manager at Bishop Museum, the largest museum in the state renowned for its cultural collections, research, and public education programs, I played a critical role in driving institutional growth and community engagement. My responsibilities included coordinating committee meetings, managing comprehensive budget processes, and overseeing corporate partnerships through contract management and social media campaigns. I also planned and executed large-scale events, facilitated donor relations, and organized museum tours and public programs to strengthen engagement. Additionally, I managed databases and handled the museum's bulk postage account, while acting as the lead photographer for donor events and curating content for the Annual E Ulu A Pa’a online auction. My contributions significantly enhanced the museum’s visibility, fostered partnerships, and improved operational efficiency in support of its mission to preserve and promote cultural heritage.

Honolulu Museum of Art

Visitor Services Manager

May 2013 – Jan 2019

As the primary point of contact for over 330,000 annual visitors at Hawaii's largest art museum, I was responsible for ensuring a world-class visitor experience through collaboration with multiple departments. I managed and trained a team of over 75 volunteers and 6 Visitor Services Associates across three entry points, while also developing training materials to enhance staff performance. I led internal and external communications, keeping the public informed about museum events, exhibitions, and performances. Utilizing the museum’s CRM system, Tessitura, I handled admissions, memberships, and event ticketing. Additionally, I took on leadership roles, including Acting Director of Visitor Services during the museum’s Art After Dark fundraiser, which I successfully managed, hosting 1,270 attendees and raising $16,140. I also oversaw the transition of 34 volunteers and associates from Raiser’s Edge to Tessitura, ensuring smooth system integration and team productivity.

Exhibitions

CCQL: David Salle x UHM

February 8 – March 2, 2023

https://hawaii.edu/art/david-salle-x-uhm/

Portrait photographer for (Re)Generations:

Challenging Scientific Racism in Hawaii

February 20 – October 24, 2021

https://www.bishopmuseum.org/regenerations/

Videographer, The Healer Stone of Kapaemahu

June 18 – October 16, 2022

CONTACT 2016: FOREIGN AND FAMILIAR

HONOLULU MUSEUM OF ART SCHOOL

March 24 – April 17, 2016

http://www.contacthawaii.com/contact-2016