This satellite image shows the dredged water ways at low tide exposing the historic water islets once known as the fishing villages of Mokuoeo, Mokauea, and Kahakaʻaulana. The latter being the home of our Late Kumu Hula, Darrell ʻIhiʻihilauākea Lupenui where he was raised with his mama Muriel  Lupenui. They lived on Kahakaʻaulana islet from 1912-1941. 

This emblem was created with its water ways giving a visual reminder of his youth and innocence as we were too, once among young men and women. It is also a stark reminder that, even through changes and differences today as to the past, we still remain here and continue to preserve our Kumuʻs story along with our own; just as the steadfast moku of Mokuoeo, Mokauea, and Kahakaʻaulana have survived through times long beyond our understanding. Back to our roots.

Dating as far back to around 1977, this motif art became the identifiable marking that lined the  malo worn by our former Men of Waimāpuna. And through generations the marking has proven to withstand the test of time. Today, it remains a significant piece of our history and the many times its marking was revealed on stages circling the globe. The stages that crumbled beneath our stomping feet. The sweat that glistened from our bold bodies. And the roar of the crowds that couldnʻt get enough of our nobility and prowess. Once were warriors. Again as warriors. Forever as warriors. It is a proud symbol! One that reigns over all others. One that defines who we are as “Waimāpuna!” 

This depiction/illustration of a male hula dancer has been known and identifiable since  the renaissance and used in many print versions of Hawaiian events, concerts, cultural  gatherings and hula celebrations. A cut-out version has been added to our official  commemorative tee as a way to connect to our downline of kāne. This very art is also  on Merrie Monarchʻs current 2026 commemorative tee shirt. Our purpose and use is to  also bridge and to compliment Merrie Monarch for this once in a lifetime opportunity. 

SOURCE:

Webber, John, 1751-1793 :A man of the Sandwich Islands dancing. J. Webber del. C.  Grignion sculp. [London, 1784]. Reference Number: C-131-062. A scene in Hawaii in  1778. A man with tattooed legs and arms is holding a circular feather-edged shield in  his right hand. Around his neck is seaweed and he has dog's teeth leggings attached  below his knees. He is dancing. In the background is part of a house, with a low stone  wall and a banana palm.