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Join us for our first in-person illustration workshop on Friday, February 23 at Helumoa (Royal Hawaiian Center). Pop-Up to follow on Saturday, February 24.
Join us for our first in-person illustration workshop on Friday, February 23 at Helumoa (Royal Hawaiian Center). Pop-Up to follow on Saturday, February 24.
Naupaka Collaboration with the Keiki Dept

Naupaka Collaboration with the Keiki Dept

Often seen on our beaches, naupaka is popularly known for its love story and is a resilient local favorite.

The Keiki Dept x Kakou Collective Naupaka Sketc Collab

In October of 2019, we were asked by the Keiki Dept to create a design  for a collection she had in mind. She wanted to bring the two lovers - naupaka kuahiwi and naupaka kahakai - together in a print.

Chansley Kakou Collective and The Keiki Dept Collaboration - Bubbles

In the story, two lovers torn from each other were turned into flowers in order to protect them from peleʻs wrath. Naupaka Kuahiwi in the mountains and Naupaka Kahakai by the sea. The flower in the forefront of the print is Nauapaka Kahakai - the less commonly seen of the two flowers. Here is my niece Chansley sporting our collaborative Naupaka print, and her awesome bucket.

Kakou Collective and The Keiki Dept. naupaka kuahiwi and naupaka kahakai

We have been so blessed to team up with such an amazing business. From the Native Hawaiian perspective, it is such a wonderful opportunity to be able to storytell our legends and folklore while adding a modern touch. Now, despite the distance - love endures.

Stay tuned to see what Leilani creates with our collaboration print, Naupaka.

Model: Chansley @TiffanyAhlo

Apparel: The Keiki Dept

Photography + Artwork: Kakou Collective by Kea Peters

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