Artist: Solomon Enos
At the base of The Flats at Pu‘unui, a seven-story rental apartment building on Keawe Street, a striking black-and-white mural by local artist Solomon Enos captivates viewers. Entitled “The Return of Lono,” it features human-like figures positioned in a circle like the petals of a flower radiating from the central core. Their outstretched interlocking arms connect them to one another and to the flower. Like a bee attracted to pollen, your eyes are drawn to the heart of the blossom.
Enos is a Native Hawaiian artist who is well known for exploring themes of culture, ancestry and identity in his work. In this mural, he pays homage to Lono, the god of fertility and agriculture. He was inspired to paint this mural as he gazed at flowers, kalo, and trees thriving outside of his home in Wai‘anae Valley. The image reflects how we as humans are all part of nature, and that new generations will emerge just as new plants and trees spring forth and grow. It is a reminder of hope and the promise of new life.