Thursday, January 13, 2011

Hawaiian Spirituality and Culture


Following an inspiration, I started creating miniature dolls. Surprisingly, something which I would have never thought I had the patience to do has become my most cherished endeavor. For me, it is the most thrilling experience to look at a finished doll and see that it has come alive. It actually has a soul and a story to tell.
Magical Hawaiian Menehunes are little messengers of Hawaiian spirituality. They all convey a personal, inspirational message following concepts of Hawaiian spirituality and culture. Each Menehune's Mana carries the spiritual power of Hawaii.
Hawaiian Menehunes open the gateway to the magical world of our inner child, helping us to reconnect with our deepest and purest spiritual essence. They remind us of our origin, of the innocence, purity, and divinity within us. Magical Hawaiian Menehunes are meant to be Guardian Angels and Good Luck Charms.
I write each babies inspirational story using many Hawaiian words as well as following concepts of Hawaiian spirituality and culture. The story is an integral part of the doll because it reflects their personality and conveys guidance, protection, and inspiration. Each individual doll is the result of passionate creativity, detailing, and love. Often it takes a long time to finish a Menehune and his or her cradle because the work is never finished until the baby has a spirit and a soul. I put a great deal of my Mana (spiritual energy) into each individual Menehune until it becomes a part of me and I fall in love with him or her. As a result, I get very attached to each doll and it is always difficult for me to let them go. Menehune Mana conveys the essence of Hawaii paired with spiritual truth. My main objective with Magical Hawaiian Menehunes is to bring incredible joy and inspiration to people.

Here is part of Ipu’s, the little Menehune drummer girl`s, story:

Ipu is a Menehune Kaikamahine (Girl). She honors the presence of life by chanting and dancing to the sacred rhythm of her Ipu (gourd/drum), which she is named after. Ipu is a Menehune Kamali’i Wahine (princess). The green feather leis around her head, wrists, and ankles are made for the Ali’i (royalty), and are believed to link to the divine. Ipu’s Hawaiian Kukui Nut lei represents light, hope, and renewal. Her beautiful long, black hair is adorned with a white Plumeria flower. In the evenings her brother Kahiki accompanies Ipu in her chants with his Ukulele. All the Menehunes love to listen to them and clap their hands with delight to the rythm of the music. Together they sing about their Aloha Aina (love of the land)...

Ipu invites you to celebrate all that is sacred with her. Let all your cares fall away, discover that which brings you joy, and soar with Ipu beyond all limitations.