On one of my earlier trips to Hawaii I purchased a guide book to hidden places, supposedly unknown to tourists. One such place that I visited with my wife was the site of an ancient temple or Heiau. It really was off the beaten path. There were no sign posts or markings anywhere to show where to walk, and we did not wish to be disrespectful to the temple or the people who worship there.

We stood there a little while, looking at the stone walls when a man who looked to be native Hawaiian approached. I explained our dilemma and asked if he could guide me as to where it would be appropriate or inappropriate to walk. He looked at me and said, “I can see that you have come with a good heart. You can walk wherever you like”. His answer has guided me in my travels ever since.

Artist Statement:
To understand and appreciate Hawaiian culture, one must become familiar with the concept of aloha ‘aina, love of the land. The land, in all its diversity, with its mountains, rocks, streams, beaches and oceans, is connected spiritually to the Hawaiian people and is at the heart of Hawaiian culture.

Flowing from the aloha ‘aina concept are the values of caring for the land, sharing, and only taking just enough to ensure the balance and coexistence of all living things.

This primal connection that Hawaiians have with the land, one that allows them to think of themselves as and call themselves keiki o ka ‘aina, children of the land, was the inspiration for this series of photographs.

This series of photographs was taken in 2007.
Images from the series (click to view): Tree Alley, Haleakala, Dragon's Teeth.
There are other images in this series that are not on this website. If you are interested in more information about them, please leave a message below or email me.