Kaniakapupu Dark Forest Aloha Shirt by David Shepard
THE STORY BEHIND THE HAND-DRAWN DESIGN
Kaniakapūpū means “the singing of the land shells” in Hawaiian. Featured in this print are kāhuli snails, ’ōhi’a lehua bursting into flower, and nectar feeding i’iwi birds. This print has layers of meaning, or ‘kauna’: The songs of the snails bring Hawai’i into being.
Kaniakapūpū is the name of the summer palace of Kamehameha III who said in 1843, ‘ua mau ke ea o ka ’aina i ka pono’ or ‘the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.’ The Hawai’i state motto to this day.
“Kāhuli (tree snails) are attributed with song and are featured in oli, mele, and mo’olelo. They are considered hō’ailona (omens or signs) when encountered in the forest. Their colorful forms adorn plants and people alike, as their shells were used in lei. Unfortunately, they are under threat of extinction by the appetites of introduced invasive predators. Hawai’i’s Snail Extinction Prevention Program and their partners are rearing Kāhuli for reintroduction and are protecting their habitats.“
PRODUCT SPECS
- 96% polyester and 4% elastane premium blend
- Fabric is smooth, lightweight, and durable
- Real coconut buttons
- Print-matched left chest pocket
- Button-down shirt plus button on the back of the collar
- Limited quantity print
- Designed, cut, and sewn in Hawai‘i on imported fabric
- Fabric prints are hand-drawn
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Ideal for business casual, weddings and more
