I call this piece "Traces", because I see it as the traces of our people left behind on the surface of our ‘āina as well as in the depth of it. There are still traces of our ancient people in the lava fields of the Big Island, as well as remaining in the hearts and minds of so many of us. The trace that were left behind, are the seeds or roots that are now growing stronger and stronger within the lāhui.
This piece is a collection of experiments with Kapa. Some pieces have been cast to create a bubbling surface texture. Each piece has been dyed with various stages of Kukui Bark dye, from freshly made to aged for several months. Each panel is wrapped around hand made cast panels of recycled paper.
9 Panels of Kapa with Kukui Bark Dye
Black Ink, Kapala Print
36x36 inches
Individual panels are approximately 12x12 inches each
Kapa is first and foremost a sustainable textile made from natural materials and colored with natural dyes. Taking care of it will ensure longevity, but with time and exposure to light the colors will eventually begin to fade.