The song, Eia Makou by Keola Kaʻahanui is a call to the young seeds of these islands. The line “Nā Pua O Hawaiʻi” directly translates to the “flowers and fruits of Hawaiʻi”, bringing light to our future. Growing up in these green peaking mountains, the children of Hawai’i have all the right roots needed to be “the leaders of tomorrow”.
Nā Pua will be Riley Nakamura’s debut solo show at Harbors Vintage. There will be ‘ono grinds, music, and cherreh art work. Come hang out, cruise, and pau hana.
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Opening Day
July 6th, 2024
Gallery Hours: 12-6pm
Opening Event: 6-10pm
Show up until July 31st, 2024
Harbors Vintage Beretania
1269 S. Beretania St. Honolulu, HI 96814.
What Else Get?
Starting the night off there will be food from Pili Group, and soundscapes from Aloha Got Soul. Performances from 3 Prong, Steven Kou, and hot new indie pop sensation from the outskirts of Kaimukī, Royce Fisherman.
Mahalo to everyone who stay making this possible.
Stay tuned for more announcements of the show, details, and merch!
#CHEEPONO #ALOHA #HOUMARY #HEWKANANI #YESSAHMARISSA #FODAKEEDS
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My Story:
For me, the most influential cultures are Japanese and Hawaiian, with a touch of Chinese heritage. In Hawaiʻi, Japanese and Hawaiian cultures are deeply woven into the fabric of society, which is evident in my artwork—from small symbols to bold gestures. My father's side of the family is purely Japanese, while my mother’s side is Okinawan. These two closely related cultures of mine, both with 4 - 6 generations deeply embedded in Hawaiʻi’s atmosphere, have not forgotten their roots.
For the past five to six years, I’ve been consciously and unconsciously exploring questions of identity and belonging. Though they may seem cheesy or trivial, these questions ground us as humans. Where do I belong in this world, on this ʻāina?
In my artwork, I incorporate literal shapes and symbols—hibiscus flowers, breezes blocks, chain link fences, jewelry, slippers, lauhala/coconut papale—all representing different aspects of Hawaiʻi's cultures. These symbols tell the story of the many cultures that have found their way to Hawaiʻi.
The figures and children in my work embody the people of the islands. It’s about the community. Hawaiʻi wouldn't be the most loving place in the world without its people. Perhaps my pieces are a love letter to my community. The people of Hawaiʻi, of all races and cultures, exude a unique kindness. "Nā Pua O Hawaiʻi" embodies the beauty of Hawaiʻi's people, its past, and its future. Hawai’i, itself constantly questions and ponders who we are. How do we honor and uplift our native structures while embracing what we already have? Hawaiʻi is built on generations of unity, and it is this togetherness that defines us and propels us into the future.
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Chords to the song Eia Makou: