Sacred Swells of Na Pali

The Na Pali Coast, famous for it's velvety green cliffs and cascading waterfalls which plummet thousands of feet into dark narrow valleys, has inspired countless people since the first Hawaiians settled this land.

At the Eastern end of the Na Pali Coast is a famous peak, known by most as “Bali Hai,” made famous by the movie of the same name.  Its Hawaiian name is “Mt. Makana,” and in ancient times, the Hawaiians practiced the daring art of Kekahuna, or fire-throwing there.  These primeval fire-throwing rituals were part of a graduation ceremony for those descended from chiefly blood.  According to tradition, the graduates climbed the treacherous cliffs, braving the strong winds and the steep vertical face, climbing higher and higher.  Once at the top, the initiates lit a spear of wood on fire, and threw it from the mountain peak, in a brilliant display of fire and embers rocketing through the sky.  I can only imagine what that must have looked like!

Every time I have been to this part of the island and seen Mt. Makana, there is something that stirs deep within me...I sense a sacredness, a feeling of majesty and divine spirit.  No wonder the ancient Hawaiians used it for their holy ceremonies.

I wanted to bring this feeling of sacredness to the painting, and communicate the special relationship that fire and heat has always had with this revered summit.  The electric blues of the cliffs reflected in the water vibrate spectacularly against the fiery oranges and yellows reflected from the sky. I love how the colors excite my eyes and the motion of the water reflections mesmerizes me.  Such a beautiful push and pull.  For those of you who love color, water, and the magic of Hawaii, this new painting will be a fantastic addition to your collection.  Contact us below to find out more info.