Breathtaking narratives illuminate Oʻahu through the contemporary art project “Wahi Pana,” meaning sacred places. This engaging initiative, which began in Honolulu, seeks to deepen community connections to the land by celebrating the historical and cultural narratives of Native Hawaiians. The first installation debuted at Fort Street Mall, featuring works from local Kānaka Maoli artists Carl F.K. Pao and ‘Īmaikalani Kalāhele, blending visual artistry and poignant poetry.
Pao’s enchanting tile mural, “Ke Kānāwai Māmalahoe,” narrates a powerful tale of justice linked to King Kamehameha I’s decree from 1797, using ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i as its vehicle. Meanwhile, Kalāhele’s poetic installation, crafted from banners, resonates with his childhood memories of the 1950s, capturing a sense of place and personal attachment. This immersive experience not only decorates the urban landscape but also invites introspection and cultural appreciation.
The project continues with Rocky KaʻiouliokahihikoloʻEhu Jensen’s installation at Fort DeRussy, followed by Brandy Nālani McDougall’s unveiling at Operation Red Wings Medal of Honor Park. Coordinated by the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts with a significant $1 million backing from Bloomberg Philanthropies, these temporal art expressions engage residents and visitors in meaningful dialogue about Oʻahu’s vibrant heritage.
“Wahi Pana is about connecting our communities to the places that shape our identity as a people,” proclaimed Mayor Rick Blangiardi. This initiative seeks to preserve cultural legacies and encourage reflections on shared histories, enriched by contributions from various collaborators like Aupuni Space and Hawai‘i Contemporary. With phases two and three scheduled for unveiling in significant locations across Oʻahu in May and September 2025, the project’s narrative of identity and heritage is set to continue its journey.
The ‘Wahi Pana’ art project illuminates Oʻahu by celebrating Native Hawaiian heritage through multimedia installations. Brought to life by artists like Carl F.K. Pao and ‘Īmaikalani Kalāhele, the project commences in Honolulu and aims to deepen community ties with cultural narratives. Funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, it features multiple phases of art that will unfold until 2025.
The ‘Wahi Pana’ project serves as a vital conduit for connecting contemporary art with the rich tapestry of Oʻahu’s cultural history. Through various installations by local artists, the initiative fosters a deeper appreciation and dialogue about the importance of heritage in shaping community identity. As it unfolds through its upcoming phases, this artistic endeavour promises to illuminate the significance of sacred places and collective memories in Hawaii’s narrative landscape.
Original Source: www.hawaiipublicradio.org
