The Public Art Podcast

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in March 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

  Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

  Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Recorded in February 2025 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Hawai‘i sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each identify a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. This specific story is also a part of our Hui Mo‘olelo: ​Lei Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi program, which uplifts stories of gender and sexual diversity and fosters acceptance of queer identities. Learn more about at https://www.mauipublicart.org/leipuaala.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #38: Carol Ball & Erin Wade Recorded 10/26/24 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #37: Coach Earl Kukahiko & Kaliko Storer of Lāhainā Recorded Jul 28, 2024 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #36: Louis Garcia III & Kaliko Storer of Lāhainā Recorded Jul 28, 2024 at Wahikuli The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #35: Gensho & Yayoi Hara Recorded Jul 30, 2024 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #34: Uncle Snake & Aunty Myrna Ah Hee Recorded Aug 2, 2024 in Lahaina, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #33: Tom Fujita & Dean Tokishi Recorded Jul 26, 2024 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #32: Teva Medeiros and his Grandfather Timothy Medeiros Sr. Recorded Jul 23, 2024 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with kūpuna to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Hui Mo‘olelo #31: Theo Morrison, Executive Director, Lahaina Restoration Foundation & Erin Wade, Planning & Development Chief, County of Maui  Recorded Jul 18, 2024 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo: Lahaina program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lahaina sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to interpret as a work of public art in collaboration with Maui community members. Proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange that is rooted in specific places throughout Maui County. Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration at https://www.mauipublicart.org/hui-moolelo.html. Please enjoy.

Today we talk story with Erin Wade, County of Maui Planning & Development Chief and project coordinator for the Wailuku Town Improvement Projects; a journey she began in 2012. Erin has been the driving force in establishing Wailuku as an arts district. We took this moment together to capture a broad overview of the historical context, vision, challenges, milestones, community sentiment and next steps for seeing this intention through - and boy did she deliver. Please enjoy. 

Recorded Nov 2022 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #29: Uncle William Garcia & Pualani Enos Dunn Recorded Dec 2023 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #30: Scott Fisher, Director of ʻĀina Stewardship at Hawai'i Land Trust & Kim Thayer of Mauna Kahalawai Watershed Partnership  Recorded Dec 29, 2023 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with a partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #28: Uncle “Gaby” Gouveia & Pualani Enos Dunn Recorded Dec 2023 The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Today we talked story with Dean Wong, Executive Director of Imua Family Services and master visionary of the Imua Discovery Garden in Wailuku. In 2020 Imua purchased the 6-acre Wailuku Historic District property from the Yokouchi family as a dedicated space for learning and growing through play and exploration.  In 2024, the space will unveil Earth to Sky, a yearlong installation of bronze and steel sculptures by artist Steve Tobin spanning 10 to 30-feet in height that will 1) create a dynamic and enriching learning environment for children; 2) serve as a catalyst for community engagement; and 3) generate revenue for Imua programs as well as the broader Wailuku Arts District.  Please enjoy getting to know the vivacious Dean Wong in today's podcast, learning about his life's journey and unraveling the story of this place, this exhibit and the future opportunities presented by Imua Discovery Garden. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #26: Bruce Uʻu & Nohe Uʻu-Hodgins Recorded Dec 22, 2023 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. Intergenerational partners engage in audio-recorded talk-story sessions that capture these connective moments and inspire potential works of public art for upcoming requests for proposals.  Here, father-daughter duo Bruce & Nohe talk story about Hawaiian Canoe Club, which is based in the heart of Kahului.  

Hui Mo‘olelo #26: Jeanette Nalani Kaauamo & Lopaka White Recorded Dec 8, 2023 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Here, Lopaka White of the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission talks story with one of his outrigger canoe paddling heroines, Jeanette Nalani Kaauamo, known to many as Aunty Sweetheart, of Wailuanui.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #25: Joyce Kawahara & Dean Tokishi Recorded Nov 10, 2023 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Here, 47-year old Dean Tokishi of the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission talks story with his fourth grade teacher from Kahului Elementary School, 79-year old Joyce Kawahara -- or, Tutu K.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #24: Kevin Gavagan and his daughter Kukui Gavagan Recorded Oct 30, 2023 in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Moʻolelo #23: Andrew Chin & Michael Takemoto Recorded October 23, 2023 on Kono Place in Kahului, HI.  The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #22: Jennifer Freeland & Haines Burt Freeland Recorded October 13, 2023 at the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku, HI The goal of the Hui Mo‘olelo program is to capture an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui County sense of place. As participants complete our immersive storytelling workshop, each are paired with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded talk-story that captures these connective moments.  Representing a wide range of special places and stories, the collection is available for your research, enjoyment, memory or inspiration. Please enjoy. 

In June 2023, Maui artist Anthony Pfluke will perform a free set of original music inspired by the history, culture and sense of place of Kahoʻolawe and Wailuku, Maui. He has developed music and lyrics through community consultations, a 4-day volunteer access of the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve, and study of ‘Ōlelo No‘eau: Hawaiian Proverbs and Poetical Sayings that will be shared during this free event. Here, Anthony speaks with Uncle Kevin Brown and his son Ikaika to gain inspiration and advice for his work. Learn more HERE. 

Recorded at Aunty's Oʻahu home on October 29, 2022, these extraordinary women met to record a 40-minute "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection. This recording will become part of our Hui Mo'olelo collection from which artists base a proposed work of public art through our RFP (request for proposals) process. Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

Recorded at Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center on June 24, 2022, Anthony Pacheco and his father Henry Eskaran, Jr., Kamaʻāina of Lānaʻi, met to record a 40-minute "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lānaʻi sense of place. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In May 2022, Jocelyn Romero Demirbag, Ed.D., Director of Development, Maui Nui at The University of Hawaii Foundation, completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection. Here, Jocelyn speaks with Caroline Kahoʻiwai Belsom at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In May 2022, Kelly McHugh-White helped to organize a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection. As Kelly began listening to more and more of these recordings, she became fixated on the idea of interviewing her former boss (and now friend), Michael K. Nāhoʻopiʻi, Executive Director of Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission. Here, the two spoke at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

Bobby Zokaites is a U.S. based sculptor skilled in a variety of materials with a wealth of experience producing large scale works for private and public spaces. His industrious work ethic and urban design sense enable him to create distinctive works of art that foster new and dynamic relationships between community, site, history and the natural environment. Blurring the line between fine art, public sculpture and collaborative practices, his work engages diverse audiences, humanizes public spaces, and often encourages participation with larger-than-life-sized artwork. Zokaites earned his BFA at New York College of Ceramics at Alfred University (2008) and his MFA in Sculpture at Arizona State University (2014). He recently completed two permanent municipal infrastructure projects in Arizona. It is integral to Zokaites' practice that his work connects residents to one another and their community in new ways, creating new and lasting experiences. Learn about Bobby's SMALL TOWN * BIG ART and Imua Discovery Garden collaborative project HERE. 

In May 2022, Student of Hawaiian Life Ways Anuhea Yagi completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection. Here, Anu speaks with Hōaka Delos Reyes, an expert in the field of stone-on-stone carving (kālai pōhaku), at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In May 2022, Dean Tokishi completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection. Here, Dean speaks with John McCandless (Uncle Johnny Mac), at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In this "bonus episode" of our Talk Story initiative, Lopaka White specifically requested an impromptu meeting with Sissy Lake-Farm to learn more about Hawaiian Canoe Club -- a program that raised him and that was created by Sissy's family, John and Kealoha Lake, sixty years ago. More at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

On Friday, June 10, 2022, cousins Frank De Rego, (Maui Police Commission, Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce, Maui County Climate Action Resiliency Planning Advisory Committee) and ​Wallette Pellegrino, (Former Host of ”Preserving Our Recollections” Oral History TV Program for University of Hawaii Maui College), met at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society to record a "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In May 2022, Kauwela Bisquera completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. Here, Kauwela speaks with Kekoa Enomoto, ʻAhahui Kaʻahumanu and Chairwoman, Paʻupena Community Development Corporation, at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center.

In May 2022, Lopaka White completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in an audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. Here, Lopaka speaks with Sally Ann Delos Reyes, a fellow ocean enthusiast, about their love for family, adventure and Hawai'i. Please enjoy. 

Recorded at Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center on May 31, 2022, Dean Del Rosario, Kamaʻāina of Lānaʻi and Shelly Preza, Executive Director, Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center met to record a 40-minute "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lānaʻi sense of place. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

Recorded at Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center on May 31, 2022, Soon Yai Amaral, Elder kamaʻāina of Lānaʻi and Diane Preza, Kamaʻāina of Lānaʻi, met to record a 40-minute "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Lānaʻi sense of place. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists will base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

On June 7, 2022, Hōkūlani Holt, PhD, Kumu Hula, Pā'ū O Hi'iaka, Ka Hikina O Ka Lā, University of Hawaii Maui College and Cody Pueo Pata, Kumu Hula, Halau Hula ʻo ka Malama Mahilani and cultural advisor to the Maui County Mayor, met at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society to record a 40-minute "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. This recording will become part of a collection from which artists may base a proposed work of public art through the upcoming SMALL TOWN * BIG ART 2022 RFP (request for proposals). Learn more at smalltownbig.org/talk-story.

In May 2022, Michael (Mick) Bursack completed a storytelling training alongside 12 extraordinary individuals, led by SMALL TOWN * BIG ART artist Leilehua Yuen. Our team paired each participant with an intergenerational partner to engage in a 40-minute, audio-recorded "Talk Story" session, with the goal of capturing an authentic moment of connection through stories that are embedded in a Maui sense of place. Here, Mick speaks with Annadelle Yahiro, a fellow docent at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House / Maui Historical Society, about an hour before their volunteer shift for the day. Please enjoy. 

Trained in classical piano from the age of seven and a competition-winning pianist as a teenager, John originally matriculated at Cornell as a Ph.D. student in Philosophy. His performance focus is on choral conducting, and his dissertation—a project in applied bio-musicology—examines how our ideas about performance change when we take seriously the latest findings in the neurophysiology of music and the growing body of evidence that music is hardwired into us humans, in part because of the role it plays in creating and nurturing community. John has been heard as a baritone soloist in the Fingerlakes Bach Festival and with New York State Baroque. He also enjoys working with singers from the keyboard, as a vocal coach and collaborative pianist. In 2014, John became a Certified Yoga Teacher. After enduring 29 winters in the Northeast, John came to his senses and moved home to Hawaiʻi, where he works as Director of Music & Organist at Keawalaʻi Congregational Church, as Executive Director of the Maui Chamber Orchestra, and as a voice teacher in Kūpono Music Studio.

Get to know some of the grad students that led "Small Town, Big Stories"; the result of a yearlong Master's project designed as a tool to continually create and collect stories from our Maui community. Today, we were joined by Penelope Baggs, Michaela Tangeman, Ashleigh Goodrich, Erin Salyers and Faculty Advisor Kevin Moloney, Ph.D. to gather context on this new tool, hear about its April 1, 2022 unveiling at ʻĪao Theater, and learn what's in store for future development. Learn more at https://www.smalltownbig.org/smalltownbigstories.html and please enjoy!

Today we're joined by Oʻahu-based sculptor Sean Browne, whose 1989 Wailuku public artwork entitled Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono became the backdrop of last week's unveiling of The Bits Left Behind (by Adaptations Dance Theater) and Return to the Source (by muralist Cory Taum). Sean has created public art for more than 40 years. Born in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees on Oʻahu and was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship in 1985, enabling him to study with Isamu Noguchi in Japan. For many years, he taught sculpture at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and at Kapiolani Community College. His greatest advice for artists today? Chance um. Please enjoy. 

Here, SMALL TOWN * BIG ART partner Sissy Lake-Farm of Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House Museum/ Maui Historical Society talks story with Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata and artist Amanda Joy Bowers about the ways that the work of Mary Kawena Pukui is influencing the revitalization of Wailuku.