By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU) – The Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA) and Hawaiʻi Triennial 2025 (HT25), hosted the dedication and activation of ʻUmeke Lāʻau, a large-scale sculptural calabash by Native Hawaiian artist Meleanna Aluli Meyer at Honolulu Hale.
Spanning 22 feet in diameter, ʻUmeke Lāʻau serves as a gathering space for meaningful conversations, cultural exchange, and healing through art. Commissioned by HT25, a multi-site exhibition of contemporary art from Hawaiʻi, the Pacific, and beyond, the installation is now on view at Honolulu Hale and will remain in place until May 4, 2025.
“ʻUmeke Lāʻau is more than just a work of art—it is a powerful symbol of care, community, and connection. This installation invites all of us to gather, reflect, and engage in important conversations,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We are tremendously proud to have this piece at Honolulu Hale and welcome the public to experience its meaning and message.”
The dedication resulted from a strong collaboration between MOCA and HT25, reinforcing the city’s commitment to supporting local and Indigenous artists.
“Working alongside Hawaiʻi Triennial 2025 to bring ʻUmeke Lāʻau to Honolulu Hale has been an incredible opportunity to showcase Native Hawaiian artistry and the power of collective storytelling,” said Kaʻili Trask O’Connell, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts. “This installation reflects our shared mission to uplift cultural expression and foster creative dialogue in our city.”
ʻUmeke Lāʻau will continue to serve as a space for gathering and meaningful exchange and can be reserved by completing the online form.