Masks • Puppets • Recycled theater arts
Art elevates the entire ʻohana in Hawaiʻi. Join us in creating stories.

kozmomimzi@gmail.com

  • Location: Hawaiʻi Island

  • Service Area: all islands

  • Grade Level: pre-K to 12

  • Category: Theatre Arts / Media Arts

Artist Statement

Teaching art is a journey—a welcoming space where freedom, balance, and connection invite us to heal, express, and truly understand our shared humanity. It is deeply rooted in the fabric of our culture: the vibrant colors, the styles we wear, the flavors we savor, and the languages we speak. For me, art comes alive through mime, masks, puppetry, and animation. These creative tools are at the heart of my everyday practice, inspiring me to draw, dance, and mimic the world around me. Even a lone dance in nature—a quiet moment among rainforests, lava fields, and ancient trees—can ripple beautiful energy into the world, bringing peace or soothing the soul. Art is never meant to be a solitary pursuit. It creates a stage for storytelling and connection, transforming and healing while reminding us of our common human spirit. Working with Hawaii’s youth feels especially meaningful. They are like blank canvases, full of curiosity and possibility. Together, we explore an ever-changing creative space, overcoming challenges and celebrating every spark of inspiration.

Artist Biography

Qualifications:

  • 35+ years of professional achievements in the

  • MFA, UCLA; MP, TV, Theatre . Graduate of the Animation Workshop (1989).

  • Multidisciplinary and multicultural experiences across the S., Europe, and Hawai‘i.

  • Expertise in arts education, theatre, puppetry, mask making, mime, and cinema.

Current Roles:

  • Independent Artist & Owner – Walczuk Productions, LLC

  • Art Enrichment Coach – Laupāhoehoe Community Public Charter School (2016–present)

  • Theatre Arts Coach & Substitute Teacher – Volcano School of the Arts and Sciences (2022–25)

  • Public Access Producer – Na Leo Public TV (2025)

Film & Theatre Production:

  • Producer: Subjective Expressions (2010), Kozmo Mimzi (docu-drama, 2022–25)

  • Founder & Director: Animation Theatre, Kozmo Mimzi Ohana Arts (1976–present)

Selected Achievements:

  • UCLA Basketball Team Member – 1969 National Champions

  • Graduate – London Mime Centre (1979)

  • Associate Professor – University of Opole, Poland (1981–1985)

  • Graduate – International Sartori Mask Institute, Padua, Italy (1989)

  • Actor, Director, Maskmaker – Cleveland Children’s Theater, Ohio (1993–1999)

  • Artist-in-Residence – Maui Academy of Performing Arts (2001–2003)

Cultural & Educational Contributions:

  • Creator of performances for Ocean Day, World Bee Day, Día de Los Muertos, UHH Earth Day, Lunar New Year Fiesta and

  • Director of original productions including Taradiddle Travels, Phantom Masks, Wild Trails + Tails, and The Tempest.

  • Leader of mask-making and puppet workshops across Hawai‘i and internationally.

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