Umeke Ulana by Kainoa Makua
“This piece ‘Umeke Ulana is done in a traditional ‘Umeke shape and is a tribute to the Hala and it’s great and varied importance in Hawaiian Culture. Known for many obvious uses within the culture in weaving, and thatching one of the lesser known facts are the use of Lei Hala in funerals and times of transition. One of the meanings of Hala is to “Pass”, so lei hala are signs of great respect in times of change such as the passing of Ali’i or a loved one. Kamehameha the great was the harbinger of change to Hawai’i, his unifying of the Hawaiian kingdom, and after his death, the abolishment of the kapu system, were just a few of the changes, good and bad, that shaped the history of Hawai’i to this day. Hala is a symbol of that transition in Hawai’i and is a sign of love and respect for the passing of the greatest Ali’i who ever lived, and a time that will never be again.” – Kainoa
