Written by Hawaiian musician Dennis Kamakahi, "Pua Hone" is a song he wrote in prison and sang to his girlfriend as a proposal. In Kamakahi's words, this song speaks of "love that's slowly nurtured in the heart." I imagine my Palila thinking of his love as the sunsets. Sitting next to the delicately sweet Pikake flowers, I am positive he is trying his hardest to be patient:) Lust may be a burst of flame, all crazy and hot... but a good love is a slow burn that keeps you toasty and warm, no matter what happens in this insanity that is life.
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I've been cataloging my artwork for the end of the year and Happy Summer Day was tucked away in my studio. There was something holding me back from sending it off to a gallery, and I decided to adjust it. Initially I had the left bird off to the side and my right bird looking forward. Left Bird looked so aloof, so I moved him in closer to Right Bird. Now the pair feel much happier:) I've said it before, I'm a snuggler. So naturally my birds are going to show the love! Hawaiian birds, the state flower and a golden pineapple to boot? Yessir, I done did it all! I currently live on the Big Island, but I have lived on a few islands and my dad is from Maui. My grandparents had so many siblings that I know I haven't met them all. I love each island for different reasons, but my favorite right now is Big Island Hawaii. The only reason I say "right now" is the same reason I resided on different islands over the years. Big Island suits who I am now. Maui is the island of my childhood with the faint smell of white pineapple in the air and so many options of beaches that our family literally decided which beach as we drove towards the Lahaina/Kihei fork in the road. Oahu is the land of opportunity with the city atmosphere of Honolulu and party-central nightlife of Waikiki. I don't remember half the craziness of those years, but (whew!) Oahu in my early twenties was a good time. And now we arrive on the Big Island. As soon as I walked off the plane, I felt the mana: the power of the island and the true Hawaiian spirit. Hawaii is the largest island, larger than all the other islands combined. Yet everything is spread out and buildings are kept under four levels along the Kohala Coast. It's an oasis hidden within ominous black lava. If you are looking to party hearty, look elsewhere. But if you want to connect with the island, be free from the insanity of five-story enclosed shopping malls and check yourself out of the rat race, you just may fit in on the Big Island. Lucky I live Hawaii:) Happy New Year! This year has already started off strong. I went on my early morning walk and my little 10lb dog Uggi went right up to 100+lb Akita Cody today and gave him a kiss on the lips. For some dogs that wouldn't be a big deal, but every day for over a year, Uggi has shied away from any contact with big dogs... Specifically Cody, who is ten times his size. But today he not only accepted a face sniff, he initiated it! Proud Mama, I am:) ... back to the painting... The New Year has become synonymous with a fresh start. We have resolutions. We buy workout gear that gets used aggressively for the first two weeks and then quickly transforms into an awkward clothes hanger. We eat really healthy until the firework smoke clears and we see the latest Taco Bell ad featuring a new taco-wrapped-in-a-burrito-smothered-with-nacho-cheese-stacked-between-two-quesadillas... Mmm that sounds awful. Awful good;) But I'll play my part. This painting is a celebration of the Mamo. A bird that became extinct awhile back, but they live on in my mind. They are an example of the fragility of life. One day here, the next day gone forever. And they are a reminder that there are other species with dangerously low numbers that now need our help to survive. So I will continue to paint our native Hawaiian birds and with every sale, my profits will go towards the conservation of our remaining beloved species. My resolution is one I can keep. I resolve to enjoy every day for the true gift that is life. And strive towards doing what I love and loving those around me:) |
AuthorKaren Obuhanych (kto ART) is a Hawaii-based artist who relishes in the simple, happy moments of everyday life. Archives
May 2019
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