Is there a perspective that's specifically local, whether in relation to isle issues or global ones? How do place, history and identity figure into perspective?

These are the ideas being tossed around in “;Local Motives,”; the latest exhibit at Koa Gallery, featuring the works of Russell Sunabe, Maile Yawata, Chuck Souza and Kazu Kauinana.

Sunabe says the title befits the show because “;it's ambiguous enough that people can read different things into that. We throw it upon the viewer to try to sift it out through the work and ask, 'What is local about this?' That way, there's discussion. ... We hope the dialogue continues beyond the life of the show.”;

The artists like the idea of inspiring discussion, especially among art students, because all but Yawata are art instructors.

“;Many of our students come from the same community as we do, the same local culture,”; says Sunabe, who conceived the concept of the show. “;We are examples for them—we are artists modeling for them. So I thought it would be great if we had a show, so they could see what we do outside of class.”;

Sunabe hopes seeing their teachers' work will inspire student confidence so that, collectively, local artists will come to “;develop ... a kind of local sensibility defining our work that doesn't have to talk about local issues. It can reflect our views on global issues. It's a perspective that comes from the nurturing we had here that shapes our views.

“;Then, maybe, we will have art that's of Hawaii, that reflects the native culture and pidgin, all those kinds of things.”;

“;Local Motives”; continues through Nov. 14 at Koa Gallery on the Kapiolani Community College campus. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Call 734-9374 or visit koagallery.kcc.hawaii.edu.