The Public Art Podcast

Episode #12: Dean Wong

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 #27: Bruce Uʻu & Nohe Uʻu-Hodgins

Hui Mo‘olelo #26: Bruce Uʻu & Nohe Uʻu-HodginsRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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.
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

Hui Mo‘olelo #26: Jeanette Nalani Kaauamo & Lopaka WhiteRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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.
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

Hui Mo‘olelo #25: Joyce Kawahara & Dean TokishiRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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.
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

Hui Mo‘olelo #24: Kevin Gavagan and his daughter Kukui GavaganRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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. Please enjoy. 

Hui Moʻolelo #23: Andrew Chin & Michael Takemoto

Hui Moʻolelo #23: Andrew Chin & Michael TakemotoRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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. Please enjoy. 

Hui Mo‘olelo #22: Jennifer Freeland & Haines Burt Freeland

Hui Mo‘olelo #22: Jennifer Freeland & Haines Burt FreelandRecorded 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. These recordings become the basis for annual requests for proposals to be interpreted 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. Please enjoy. 

TALK STORY #21: Uncle Kevin Brown and Anthony Pfluke

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.