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Meet the Artist

Joseph Nohea Kalima Jr., is a beloved native Hawaiian artist who was born and raised in Keaukaha Homestead of Hilo. He is affectionately known in the community as Uncle  Joe, and his art is inspired by his own love for his Hawaiian culture as he grew up in a large family that fosters and encourages a deep appreciation of Hawaiian cultural arts, with a particular focus on mele (music), hula (dance), hoe waʻa (canoe paddling). Grounded in this value, he enthusiastically passed these values and passions on to his talented children. Joe will forever be remembered for his devotion to his homeland and rich culture reflected in his striking works of art and through a variety of other graphic mediums he leaves with us today. Enjoy his art!

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KE AHU A LAKA
This heiau hula (hula temple) is a wahi pana (legendary place) located in Kēʻē on the island of Kauaʻi. Hula people consider this place to be one of the most important sites in all of Hawaiʻi. As one of Uncle Joe’s favorite art pieces, he finished this painting in 2007 to be used as the cover art for the Humu Moʻolelo Hula Journal. Enjoy this original piece as it takes you to the island of Kauaʻi to honor hula, the language of the heart.

In celebration of Merrie Monarch, Hālau Hula Kauluola pieced together these installations to honor our physical, mental, and spiritual connection to Hula. Mahalo nui to Mokupāpapa Discovery Center for this collaboration.

To learn more about Hālau Hula Kauluola and Mokupāpapa click below.

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