When Hawaii island’s woodworkers gather, collectors do, too. The 29th Annual Hawaii Wood Guild Exhibit opened Jan. 17 to a festive crowd, enjoying fine wood art and each other. The essence of community was palpable as old friends reunited and visited with their patrons, many of whom flew in to attend the opening reception.

If you missed it, you’re still in luck. The exhibit runs through Feb. 21.

Koa wood takes center stage, wowing visitors with the beautiful variations of color and the various forms it takes, shaped by the Big Island’s top talent. Of course, mango, milo, hau and even jacaranda make appearances as well.

Wandering through two spacious rooms housing the exhibit, one can’t help but be struck by the diversity of work and the exquisite details. There’s something for everyone who appreciates wood art.

"There is quality design and joinery in the fine wood furniture, exquisite inlay and detail in the vases and bowls, and drama and intrigue in the sculptures," said Mollie Hustace, director of Isaacs Art Center.

Take Cliff Johns’ award-winning sculpture, "Ohana," the sixth piece in a series of works that had Johns performing some tricky offset turning, followed by detailed carving and sanding, to achieve a string of five hollow vessels, all attached and turned from one log. The piece received a first-place award in the sculpture category.

Those who favor bowls won’t find much in the way of traditional forms, but the show makes evident how wood turning has evolved.

Michael Patrick Smith received Best of Show for his elaborately turned Norfolk pine bowl "Ahi," and Scott Hare took first place in wood turning for his intricately carved milo calabash, "Let’s Play Hooky."

Looking for just the right piece of furniture? Check out Tai Lake’s award-winning vanity set, Marcus Castaing’s sideboard and David Reisland’s cabinet, to name a few. Each shows off the beauty of koa wood with his own signature style.

Hosting the guild’s exhibit for the sixth straight year, Isaacs Art Center is a venue filled with work that keeps the woodworkers in good company. On the walls are paintings by legends Herb Kane, Madge Tennent and Jean Charlot, among other masters.

"Showcasing the exceptional work of the Hawaii Wood Guild contributes to our mission of promoting fine arts education and appreciation through our school and island community," said Hustace.

The People’s Choice award is one of the show’s most coveted honors, and visitors have a chance to vote for their favorite piece through Feb. 21. See all the works online at isaacsartcenter.hpa.edu/events/hawaiʻi-wood-guild-show-2015.