As a student of hula for the past eight years, it occurred to me to approach this project
from a perspective based partly on traditional Hawaiian beliefs. These vandalized books
had suffered such dramatic insult. An equally creative and passionate response was
necessary in order to neutralize the negative energy left as residual from this violent act.
I decided to make a traditional feather lei, in the wili poepoe style. This involves a tying
technique inherited from the ancient Hawaiians. While tying the feathers, one thinks of
the beloved for whom the lei is made. It is a peaceful, meditative craft. The deep yellow
of ilima feathers signify a golden future; the vivid red feathers refer to blood shed in the
past. Before I began, I asked my Kumu Hula, Shawna Ke’alameleku’uleialoha Ngum, for
help in addressing the book from a spiritual standpoint. With three long strips of the
kapa, we braided and bound the book securely, closing and healing its vulnerability. The
book now journeys into the future as a new entity; protected and whole, embraced,
adorned, honored and celebrated. Ua ola loko i ke aloha. Love gives life within.
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