The first ever Mele and Art in Our Kaka‘ako was held on Saturday, August 19, brought to the community by the Kaiāulu o Kaka‘ako Association (KOKA). Kaloko‘eli Courtyard was full of color and inspiration as artists and makers shared their craft with the community to the backdrop of Hawaiian mele. Residents and passersby floated in savoring the sights and sounds, and indulging in ʻono treats from Dipped by Dee, Makanai by Sushi King, 1-2 Buy, and My Sweet World 808!
Keeping our Maui ‘Ohana and all those impacted by the recent wildfires top of mind and close to our heart, Carlos Acevedo from Ceiba House, created an interactive chalk art installation, Roots of Resilience, sharing the iconic Lahaina Maui Banyan Tree. Event attendees had the opportunity to co-create the piece by adding their names or the name of a loved one in leaves in a symbolic show of support.
Event goers also had the chance to participate in a kapa stamping activity and talk story sessions with Kamalu du Preez, an Oʻahu-based Kanaka ʻŌiwi cultural practitioner and Cultural Resource Specialist at Bishop Museum.
‘Akahi Productions curated a very special lineup of local entertainment, which featured:
David Asing, member of the musical Asing ‘Ohana
Mel Amina, acclaimed Hawaiian musician and original member of The Makaha Sons of Ni‘ihau
The ‘Akahi Productions Hula Show
Special shoutout to all of our participating artists and makers!
Mahalo to our sponsors and partners!
Big mahalo to our sponsors and partners, who came together to help make this event possible. Your kōkua is greatly appreciated.