Creation Story: Papahānaumoku and Wākea

Art prints are locally printed in Hawai'i on bamboo paper, a more environmentally friendly option, packaged in clear biodegradable plastic made of cornstarch. 

This print was made to bring awareness to our North Western Hawaiian islands. Papahānaumokuākea is currently at risk from Elon Musks rocket debris. Papahānaumokuākea is a Marine Protected Monument, and living ancestor for Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians). It is the origin of our creation story, where sky father Wākea and Earth mother Papahānaumoku give birth to the Hawaiian islands. It is also home to over 7,000 species, several of which are endangered and found no where else in the world.

Sky-father Wākea and earth-mother Papahānaumoku gave birth to the Hawaiian Islands. Most people think we only have eight islands; however, we actually have 137. This art piece showcases the creation of our origin story. Wākea and Papahānaumoku gave birth to a beautiful girl named Ho‘ohōkūkalani, which means “to generate stars in the sky.” Wākea and Ho‘ohōkūkalani then gave birth to two children. The first child was stillborn and was named Hāloanakalaukapalili, meaning “the long stalk that trembles in the wind.” Ho‘ohōkūkalani buried her child in the ground and wept over him. Soon, a new plant began to grow, this plant was known as kalo, or taro. Their second child was named Hāloa after his brother. He grew up to be the first ali‘i nui (high-ranking chief) and took care of his younger brother by feeding the Hawaiian people with the kalo that sprouted. The kalo connects us as a people and is a focal point in this art piece, showcasing that all Hawaiians are descendants of this creation. 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/4465137295/creation-story-papahnaumoku-and-wkea