Moku ‘Upena - Lāna’i

3in x 3in die cut stickers

Thick and durable vinyl

I haʻaheo no ka lawaiʻa i ka lako i ka ʻupena // “The fishermen may be well proud when well supplied with nets”

“Moku ʻUpena” or loosely translated to “island net” is not only a nod to our lawaiʻa (fishermen) and the practice of ʻupena hoʻolei or throwing net but the years of kilo (observation) to perfect and learn such a skill. It is said that a fisherman who has mastered the art of ‘upena ho’olei may replicate the distinct shape of a particular moku (island) in one singular motion of throwing his net - depending on what the situation asks.

It is practices like these woven with kūpuna ‘Ike (elderʻs knowledge) that are generational keepsakes much like the exceptionally well-made net of ʻolona, hau and now sugi that we are so honored to carry and pass on to our keiki (children) today.