Artists: Kahiau Beamer and Cory Taum
King David Kalākaua, fondly remembered as the Merrie Monarch, was the first king in Hawaiian history to tour the globe. As a tribute to the King’s momentous return from his world tour, Hawai‘i-born and -raised Kamehameha Schools alumnus Kahiau Beamer collaborated with fellow local artist Cory Kamehanaokalā Taum to paint this mural, entitled “Return of King Kalākaua,” for POW! WOW! Hawai‘i 2018. Using grey, blue, navy, and brown, this painting portrays King Kalākaua’s stately figure riding on a horse-drawn carriage.
King Kalākaua was a devout patron of the arts, and he enjoyed entertaining guests with singing and playing the ‘ukulele. He brought back the hula, which had been previously banned. During Kalākaua’s reign, offshore surfing enthusiasts rode the waves at Kou and the Kaka‘ako waterfront, while rowing and racing became favorite pastimes.
Viewers who see this stunning mural are reminded of this beloved King and his significance in Hawaiian history.