Culture and arts are themes of summit discussion

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts will host the inaugural International Cultural Summit May 11, 12 and 13 at the Hawai'i Convention Center.

Artists and educators will lead discussions about cultural preservation, diversity and creativity.

Of special interest to art lovers will be "Art for the Ages" (1:30 to 3 p.m. May 11) with Jun Kaneko, who will talk about his creative process as it relates to the set and costume designs of Hawaii Opera Theatre's "Madame Butterfly."

Film buffs might want to attend "Of Light, Sound and Celluloid" (11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 12) to hear filmmaker Edgy Lee, David Ulrich of the University of Hawaii and the Hawaii International Film Festival's Chuck Boller share ideas about how media and technology can advance culture and art.

Dance and music demonstrations, including taiko, reggae and lefolasa drumming, will highlight the conference.

A juried art competition, open to students from kindergarten through sixth grade, will be on display in a courtyard at the convention center.

Several sessions are geared specifically to teachers, particularly on May 13. These include "Curriculum Setting for Integration" and "Improving Writing Through Image Making."

In Saturday's keynote address, "The Art of Engaged Learning: Creativity, Connections, Partnerships," Eric Booth will help teachers use art to engage students in more active learning.

The public is invited to attend all three days ($125) or any one day ($50). Prices go up to $150 and $60, respectively, for same-day registration.

Details and registration information are available at the Web site www.hawaii.gov/sfca.