"Kamakani o Waimea"

“Kamakani O Waimea” (Wind of Waimea)

  By Bill Braden

The purpose of this painting, commissioned by the Kupuna group of Oahu’s North Shore is to bring attention to the importance of this, arguably most sacred valley.  When the idea of this painting project was first discussed, the Kupuna (elders of the native Hawaiian Community) spoke about how the Kupuna who have passed on were speaking to them, saying to take care, malama the valley.  Until recently, Waimea was privately owned and was being operated as more of an amusement park than the culturally significant sacred place that it was/is.  Even during the time of Audubon’s management of the valley, there was a lack of understanding of the importance of proper cultural protocol.  The initial mandate of the Kupuna was to show in spirit the Kupuna who’ve passed on, as the work progressed Aunty Kanani specified that the actual lyrics of the song “Kamakani O Waimea” be included.  In order for the written words to blend in, the artist chose to surround the song’s lyrics with the names of the Kupuna and other Trailmarker project team members.  Upon reviewing this, the Kupuna then specified that more participants of the Trailmarker Project be included.  You might have guessed by now…  Half the proceeds from the sale of the original oil painting “Kamakani O Waimea” will benefit the Trailmarker Project.