#ohanalei #historichawaii

Located in Hanalei, Kaua‘i, ‘Ohanalei is a unique art gallery and retail space created by co-owners Ryan Hakman and Ke‘ale Chang who share a common ethos in highlighting the history and stories that make Kaua‘i a special place. They deftly translate their appreciation of Hanalei's past through storytelling and art, making the past relevant in a tangible and engaging way. At first glance, the gallery’s logo—a cast iron wok draped with a tī leaf lei—may seem a bit mysterious to those unfamiliar with local lore. A video created by Ryan and Kea‘le, ‘Ohanalei Stories – Black Pot, shares the beautiful story behind its symbolism. The video features Bobo Hamyoung and his cousin, Wendell Goo, talking story about huki-ing – friends and family gathering at Hanalei Pier to help cast fishing nets and haul in the catch. The hard work was easier with many hands. Most of the catch would be taken to a grocery store and traded for food and drink. The rest would be shared with everyone who had helped fish and all were welcome to enjoy the meals that followed. Local-style dishes were cooked on open fire in a wok, a “black pot,” on the beach. Bobo’s grandfather, Henry Tai Hook, was the original leader of the hukilaus; both men were beloved for their generous spirit and larger than life personality that brought people together. The name Black Pot Beach pays homage to Tai Hook’s legacy. “Nobody had money. And money wasn’t the purpose…It was like a gathering place. Even though not fishing, no anything, people used to go down there together…We cook anything we want…and I still have that wok.” - Bobo Hamyoung, ‘Ohanalei Stories – Black Pot This is [...]