This print was inspired by the kupukupu of Puna, which are especially striking: longer, fuller, and incredibly vibrant, stretching confidently across the forest floor. They are like a reflection of the strength of the land itself.
The setting for this inspiration is Wao Kele o Puna, the native lowland rainforest that is both culturally and ecologically significant in Puna. It is a place where native plants continue to thrive in abundance, representing the richness and vitality of that region.
In hula traditions, the more delicate pala‘a and palapalai ferns are often celebrated and widely used for adornment. The kupukupu, however, offers a different kind of beauty. Its fronds are strong, sturdy, and resilient, growing easily across the lava landscapes of Puna where other plants might struggle. In many ways, it mirrors the character of Puna itself—formed by Pele, yet constantly renewing and flourishing.
Through this print, I wanted to celebrate the forests of Wao Kele, the resilience of the kupukupu fern, and the place I come from—Puna. It is a tribute to the land and the plants that continue to inspire our cultural practices, including hula.
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