Kaha ka ‘Io me na Makani - Honolulu, Oahu, HI - Figurative Public Sculpture on Waymarking.com

"Since its unveiling in 2001, Kaha Ka ‘Io Me Na Makani, “The Hawk Soars with the Winds” has become a de facto gateway not only to Hilton Hawaiian Village, but to all of Waikiki Beach and is one of the most popular photo spots for visitors to Hawaii. Mixed media sculptor Kim Duffett’s stunning, larger-than-life trinity sculpture reaches heavenward to a height of 15 feet, and consists of one male and two females performing the awe-inspiring movements of hula kahiko on the edge of a lava rock waterfall fronting Kalia Tower. Although the sculpture is cast in bronze, it conveys movement and flow from every angle. With maile lei, pa‘u drapery and haku lauahe (fern ankle and wrist adornments) aloft, the trio’s “wind dance” was chosen by the artist because wind is “invisible energy,” felt but unseen.

According to Duffett, the two female dancers are the spirits of the wind, which can be both soothing and gentle, or strong enough to move us to tears. Together they are the winds that lift the mighty ‘io, the Hawaiian hawk—the central male dancer, who represents the spirit of Hawaii, poised to take flight. Duffett says Kaha Ka ‘Io Me Na Makani represents a re-emergence of Hawaiian culture and pays tribute to the importance of dance, chant and song of Hawaii—giving it wind and lift." (visit link)

The bronze letters in front of the sculpture read: Hilton H (Hotel) Hawaiian Village. They are part of the sculpture.

Name or use 'Unknown' if not known: Kaha ka ‘Io me na Makani Figure Type: Human Artist Name or use 'Unknown' if not known: Kim Duffett Date created or placed or use 'Unknown' if not known: 2001 Materials used: Bronze Location: At the Hilton Hawaiian Village

Visit Instructions:
Please upload at least one photo you have personally taken of the sculpture and tell us a little about your impressions of the piece. Additional photos are always appreciated.

Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   07/25/2023 Isiahwoo visited it 02/11/2020 petendot visited it 11/28/2018 Benicha visited it

View all visits/logs