Na Pahu

This piece was commissioned for a hula show "Hula Pahu- The Sacred Dances" featuring my halau, "Halau 'O Keiki Ali'i" led by Kumu Kawika Keikiali'i Alfiche. It showcased traditional pahu dances- the shark skinned drum; usually only used for Hawaiian ceremonies beginning in the 16th Century. This show was a showcase of traditional and new pahu dances. Kumu Kawika's hula lineage stems from George Lanakilakeikiahiali'i Na'ope and Rae Kahikilaulani Fonseca from Hilo, Hawai'i.

This piece is a tribute to all three kumu hula, with Uncle George's pahu in the back, Kumu Rae's on the left and Kumu Kawika's on the left. I took the pahu designs from photographs of each of their pahu's. Each pahu drum has been made or given to each individual kumu and holds special meaning to them. The flower lei on each side are made up of lehua flowers representing Hilo, Hawai'i. The yellow lehua was said to be a favorite of Kumu Rae. This piece demonstrates the history and culture of our halau, and as a hula dancer of Halau 'O Keikiali'i, it is always a priviledge to create art that reflects such cultural and historical significance.