Join us for another Talk Story: Monday Moments with the Daughters–a virtual gathering typically held on the last Monday of every month. It’s a time to catch up with one another, explore an interesting topic, and learn more about what makes our organization special and unique!
ʻOhe Kapala: Understanding the Cultural Significance of Hawaiian Bamboo Stamps with Nalu Andrade
Nalu Andrade will guide us through a journey to understand how this ancient art form, once used for designing kapa, is reemerging in contemporary Hawaiʻi. From harvesting bamboo, to hand-carving unique designs, to the many uses of ʻohe kapala. This talk story session offers us the opportunity to learn about and explore the intricacies that go into crafting ʻohe kapala, while providing a better understanding of its cultural significance and its role in preserving Hawaiian traditions.
About Our Guest Speaker
Nalu’s journey into the world of carving began at the age of six, inspired by the 1978 voyage of Hōkūleʻa. Witnessing the cultural significance of this iconic journey, he dove into carving and voyaging books borrowed from his school library. With a new passion and determination, Nalu started crafting his own canoe using household items. While still in high school, he contributed to the lashing work on Hōkūleʻa at Pier 40, where he had the opportunity to connect with numerous artists and carvers involved in the Hawaiian Renaissance.
Inspired by the Hawaiian Renaissance, he founded Na Maka Kahiko and started blending traditional and contemporary art forms. One popular item of Nalu’s is his hand-carved ʻohe kapala earrings. Inspired by designs from the Bishop Museum, Nalu’s earrings reflect his deep connection to the cultural resurgence he witnessed during his childhood.
Nalu’s products can be found in the gift shops at Hānaiakamalama and at Huliheʻe Palace.