Hale Pai
Pacific American-News Journal
Kepakemapa - September 1996 Volume 2 Issue 9
Hale Naua III
Hale Naua III is a non-profit organization consisting if
indigenous artists that are geneaologically linked to those
kanaka maoli of Hawai`i Nei. The chartered purpose of this
organization is;
- to assist in the restoration and perpetuation of Hawaii
philosophy, culture, and tradition
- to correct an insensitive and prejudiced interpretation
of Hawaiian culture
- to create awareness and recognition of Hawaiian art
amongst other indigenous artists
- to establish a Native Hawaiian Arts Council in order to
administer and facilitate funding and commissions
directly to native artists.
The first Hale Naua was established on the island of Maui in
the 11th century by High Chief Haho, son of Paumakua. Hale Naua
was primarily established to receive the genealogical credentials
of persons desiring admittance to the `Aha Ali`i, the Council of
Chiefs, or to come under the protection of the tribe proper.
King David Kalakaua re-interpreted the Hale Naua in 1886 as
the “Temple of Sciences” after becoming inspired by the
Masonic movement in Europe. In a effort to preserve what had
become a vanishing culture, Kalakaua endeavored to document
existing genealogies, inviting all Kahuana (shaman) to share
knowledge of all aspects of the Hawaiian culture. The information
was meticulously recorded, but the organization was forced
`underground' when Kalakaua died in 1891.
“A Persistence in Culture”
In 1973, Rocky Ka`iouliokahihikolo`ehu Jensen, descendant from
various members of Kalakaua's original group, re-established Hale
Naua. By means of contemporary visual arts, lectures, literature,
and films, the members spread awareness and appreciation of
Hawaiian philosophy, culture, and traditions. During the past two
decades, the society had coordinated and presented more than 100
exhibits, sponsored seminars & lectures, published cultural
books, involved itself with native galleries, and consulted with
documentary & feature film producers.
To establish a native perspective, Hale Naua continues to
re-translate old manuscripts and document genealogies &
family histories. It also remains active in the language,
symbols, and traditions of the kanaka maoli.
Send mail to halepai@punawelewele.com
with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 1996 Hale Pai Pacific American-News Journal
Last modified: February 28, 1998
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