.svg)
By NTBG Staff
From colorful paintings and detailed drawings to imaginative mixed-media creations, the artworks submitted for the Loulu Love Fest Art Contest celebrated Hawaiʻi’s beloved native palms in inspiring and creative ways. Enjoy this gallery featuring winning entries from both the keiki and adult categories, each reflecting a unique appreciation for loulu.
Artist statement: “The Loulu is Hawaiʻi’s only native palm. Loulu is also the name of a fish in Hawaiʻi. It’s called this because of its tail that looks like the palms of the Loulu. I was inspired to draw this because I like to learn about Hawaiian plants and animals. I also speak Hawaiian and go to Kawaikini school.”
Calvin is a 4 year old from Kapaʻa. He chose to use watercolors on a canvas for his art piece. He says, “So, you see the green stuff on the bottom – that is grass and the brown on the Loulu tree is different colors I mixed! And the blue swirl near the sky is wind. And the top blueness is clouds.”
Esmé is a 7 year old from Kapaʻa. Esmé says: “The blue in the back is a background I painted with watercolors. There are two ringlets at the top of my portrait. My Loulu tree is made out of lentils, split peas, and barley. I really liked doing the art project! I liked that it was different; I learned that these trees are critically endangered and some are endemic to Kauaʻi!”
Artist statement: “This acrylic painting of a loulu palm is inspired by a photograph taken at Hāmākua Marsh, where I volunteer caring for these trees. Creating this piece was a way to share a vision of a healthy loulu, thriving in the face of ongoing threats.”
