HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Local artists will soon have their work on display at more than a handful of sites across the island in a new initiative to celebrate stories rooted in Native Hawaiian history.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced the Wahi Pana, or storied places, temporary public art initiative set to run from 2025 through 2028.
Eleven Native Hawaiian and Hawaii-based artists will incorporate their installations in three phases, beginning in February.
Each art piece will "highlight the rich histories of each location" and will help residents and visitors "engage deeply with Oahu's unique heritage, enhancing historical and cultural awareness."
“Public art provides free access to arts and culture while enlivening and reimagining our civic spaces. For residents and tourists, the projects create innovative ways to engage with public space, while bringing people together as a community,” explained Stephanie Dockery of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Arts Program.
Officials said Kapiolani Park, Fort DeRussy, Kapolei, Kokohead Botanical Garden, Hanauma Bay, Hoomaluhia, Haleiwa Beach Park, Fort Street Mall and Chinatown were selected for its cultural and historical significance.
Each site will have a QR code with mele, poetry and stories by Native Hawaiian storytellers and artists.
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To view artists and specialty projects or to follow Wahi Pana's progress, visit their website or follow them on social media @wahipana.