Collection: FLORENCE

KAMAKALAUKOA

This print, Ka-Maka-Lau-Koa, illustrates a cycle within the Hawaiian forest from the young sapling to the mature koa tree. At one hundred twenty-five years old, the koa tree would be large enough to be carved into a canoe. To hull a canoe, a thirty-five to forty-five foot length along with a diameter of forty-eight inches or more is required. Lashed and tied together, canoes allow our culture to migrate and flourish.

The native forest has a balanced ecosystem. Each species plays a part in the diurnal cycle. The koa is the tallest tree with great responsibilities. Its leaves and petioles attract the moisture in the atmosphere, directing it to the understory. Ferns, maile, and other natives are nourished by the koa tree.