Isaacs Art Center

The Isaacs Art Center is an art museum in Waimea that displays contemporary works by local artists alongside two centuries of Hawaiian art. The building spans about 5,580 square feet and provides space for paintings, drawings, and watercolors from different periods and styles.

The building was constructed in 1915 as Waimea Elementary School and later served as a field hospital during World War II. In 2002, it was relocated and renovated to become the art center it is today.

The center displays works by local artists and holds one of the largest collections of paintings and watercolors by Madge Tennent in existence. Pieces by Jean Charlot and D. Howard Hitchcock add depth to what visitors encounter, showing the artistic voices that shaped the region.

The center is accessible on weekdays, and the space is easy to navigate for most visitors. Hours are scheduled around the school week, so it is wise to check ahead before planning your visit.

The building was physically moved to a new location, a rare undertaking for a school structure of its size and age. This relocation made it possible to preserve the historic structure while giving it a new purpose.

Location: Hawaiʻi County

Operator: Hawaii Preparatory Academy

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-16:00

Website: https://isaacsartcenter.hpa.edu

GPS coordinates: 20.02240,-155.67329

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:26