The essay, authored by Kanalu Young with contributions from Jon Kamakawiwo'ole Osorio, Pua Mendonca, and Dr. Lilikala Kame'eleihiwa, critiques the Western use of the term "art" to describe indigenous Hawaiian creations. It argues that Western definitions of fine art exclude functional objects, leading to the misclassification of Hawaiian works such as ahu'ula (feathered capes) and kii (carved figures) as merely "folk art" or "craftwork." The author introduces the Hawaiian concept of hana no'eau (skillfully created works) and its linguistic counterpart mea no'eau, which encapsulate both functional and aesthetic qualities within a single object. By emphasizing that language carries culture, the essay posits that mea no'eau is a more culturally appropriate term than "art" for interpreting Hawaiian works. The unit aims to help students (na haumana) understand these perspectives through videos, articles, and lectures, encouraging a Hawaiian-centered framework for evaluating artistic value.
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Western Art Definitions Excluding Functionality
Explains how Western-trained specialists define fine art as non-functional, leading to the categorization of Hawaiian objects as folk art or craftwork.