Mahalo to Pele

Upon returning to my life in the Springs, I have come appreciate the value of being on retreat and spending time away in a different environment and changing the geometry of our every day lives. I had the great fortune of staying in a very magical place while I was away, the former home of Herb Kane, one of Hawaii's most famous artists. His former residence is now a bed and breakfast that is run by two amazing people, David and Michael.

www.kaneplantationhawaii.com

Herb Kawainui Kane was a well known historian of Hawaii and artist who painted detailed images of the life and culture of the islands. His paintings are colorful and powerful celebrations of the rich and layered history of these magical islands. 

In 1984 he was named a Living Treasure by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Honolulu and received an honorary doctorate of Fine Arts by the school of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Original works and prints hang on the walls of this beautiful retreat. 

Upon my arrival I was greeted by an orchestra of frogs, soft lights and a ti leaf that wrapped delicacies of macadamia nuts and chocolate. 

I slept in the magical energy of Herb Kane's original artwork, soft Pacific winds and the embrace of Pele's arms. Each morning I was welcomed with fresh fruits, lilikoi yogurt, wilelaiki blossom local honey, homemade banana bread, selected cheese and homemade treats. I can not thank my hosts enough for their generous hospitality. 

They have graciously opened their plantation to guests and I highly recommend this slice of heaven for a retreat. 

Each day fresh flowers filled the rooms with their perfume. 

There was so much attention to detail in this sacred place.
 Herb Kane created his artwork on the premesis for many years with his wife, a harp player. I could feel the creative energy still flowing through and around the gardens, the lanai and within the hearts of everyone who lives and works on this beautiful land.

Each night a small gift was left for me accompanied with a Hawaiian saying:

'A sweet treat for sweet dreams'

Mau moe'uhane'olu'olu
(pleasant dreams)

I walked the property and collected beautiful seeds and flowers to photograph in the afternoon Hawaiian light. I enjoyed finding new textures, beautiful shapes and colors to document. 

I hope to return again soon. 

Thank you Michael and David !