H A W A I ` I
Sandy Feet
maliajohnsonphotography.com
Kealoha
08
features.
Bud 19
A n t o n e l i s 14
Alice Inoue
23
12 kat reeder
Eric
L e t e r c 22
Debbie Friedrich Andre Davis 26
30 L A N A
ANTONELIS
Shawn Ching
31
Project F ocus Hawai`i 35
Ulu Art 40
18
FACES 42
james lloyd 44 C
R
I
43
S
D e r e k
B
A
Y
G l a s k i n
Brandon Tabiolo
45
46
ryan HIGA 47 48 J u s t i n
w h i t e
RITA COURY 50 opposite page: by Christopher Marquez Self Portrait oil on canvas 18” x 24”
submissions.
Yo u n g A r t i s t s
w w w . r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
SUBSCRIBE
real word. Publisher/Editor Publisher Associate Editor Creative Director Copy Editor Editorial Photographer
Cheryl DeAngelo cheryl@realwordmagazine.com Fred DeAngelo fdeangelo@realwordmagazine.com Doris Bitonio doris@realwordmagazine.com Christopher Marquez chris@realwordmagazine.com Ikaika Hashimoto ikaika@realwordmagazine.com Malia Johnson maliajohnsonphotography.com Contributing Artists Bud Antonelis Lana Antonelis Cris Bay
Laurie Callies (ProjectFocus Hawai`i) Geralyn Camarillo (Ulu Art) Shawn Ching Rita Coury Andre Davis Debbie Friedrich Derek Glaskin Ryan Higa Alice Inoue
Arna Johnson (Ulu Art) Malia Johnson Kealoha Kris Labang Eric Leterc James Lloyd Shawn Nakamoto (ProjectFocus Hawai`i) Kaylee Osbun Kat Reeder Andrea Santos Brandon Tabiolo Lisa Uesugi (ProjectFocus Hawai`i) Justin White
Š 2009. All Rights Reserved. Real Word Magazine is published bi-monthly by Fred and Cheryl DeAngelo. No part of this magazine shall be printed and/or altered without the written permission of the publisher. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any submissions and/or advertising matter. The articles and opinions in this publication are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. Real Word Magazine P.O. Box 894852 Mililani, Hawaii 96789 Please send all ADVERTISING inquiries to info@realwordmagazine.com Front Cover: Waimea Pier, Kaua`i photography: Shawn Ching
P R I N T E D
I N
H A W A I ` I
Mahalo for welcoming Real Word Magazine into your life. We are a space where artists, writers, photographers,
entertainers and anyone else who has ever wondered and uttered the words “what if,” can come together. We applaud those individuals that “did” and those that continually “do.” Real Word is here to showcase personal and intimate creations and we acknowledge everyone’s work to be great masterpieces. We embrace both raw and refined talent.
Like all beginnings, our pages were empty and blank until we filled it with your color and stories. Our vision for the
magazine is to encourage your artistic spirit to go further than your own eyes. Some artists use a pen, a camera, and even go unarmed and bare by simply using their voice. Whatever means used to convey your thoughts, Real Word Magazine is the vehicle to showcase your skills, talents and abilities.
When there no context, there’s no statement.
When there’s no statement, there’s no sharing.
When there’s no sharing, there’s no beauty.
When there’s no beauty, there’s no — art.
Till you see beauty everywhere, and in everything,
Your soul is set free,
No one can take that away from you.
- Armin Muller-Stahl, in George Gallo’s film Local Color.
— Doris Bitonio, associate editor
memories. new. excited.
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Several months ago, I experienced the greatest feeling of accomplishment when an article of mine was published in
a magazine. It stirred up a wealth of emotions. I felt like I was singing a beautiful song from the highest mountain and everyone could finally hear me. It was even more liberating than when I cut off over four feet of my hair this past year—ever since I can remember, I was “Cheryl with the long hair.” But the most overwhelming feeling was pride. I was a little girl again, excited to show it to my mom, but this time, thinking to myself, “Here— look at this. I wrote it. All of your hard work and the sacrifices you made for us paid off. Thank you and I love you.” I knew no one else could understand how important this was for me, but it didn’t matter. That moment belonged solely to me and I will cherish it always. That moment was also when Real Word Magazine was born.
In the past few months, I have been on an incredibly gratifying journey experiencing things I never dreamed of. It has
also been a very smooth ride—leading me to often question if we’ve missed something crucial. After seeing how our first issue turned out, I know that we haven’t. The pieces that are included will make you smile and laugh. Some may just bring tears to your eyes. My hope is that it will inspire you to pick up that pencil or dust off the easel that you loved years ago and rekindle that passion you had for being creative.
As we prepare to launch the magazine—made up of positive thoughts and good energy—I smile when I think of the
thirty-one individuals that contributed their work to this issue. I know they are experiencing the same great feeling that I did a few months ago. And I’m so proud that they let me share in this moment.
— Cheryl DeAngelo, publisher/editor
hope. love. beginnings.
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Kealoha is the founder of HawaiiSlam, Youth Speaks Hawaii (2-time International Champions) and First Thursdays (the largest registered slam poetry competition in the world with an average attendance of 600+). This year, he was featured in HBO’s Brave New Voices series presented by Russell Simmons. Beyond poetry, Kealoha co-wrote and played the lead role in the hip-hop theatre production Chase, which sold out on every night of its original and encore runs. He has also directed various productions including a sold out 1,400-seat show of the Vagina Monologues at Hawai`i Theatre. Kealoha graduated with honors from MIT with a degree in Nuclear Physics, served as a business consultant in San Francisco, and was a surf instructor prior to becoming a professional poet.
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Listen
Listen to the wind You can hear the world breathing if you just listen These breezes whisper melodies of distant lands transcribed through time They are like wind chimes Swirling energy carrying seeds of wisdom You can hear them as they blow through leaves of ancient trees These breezes Breathing and exhaling Telling the stories of this world For an eternity Listen to the sea It is the lifeblood of this planet Pumping and pulsing through every crevice Connecting the nations of this world through its embrace Tracing patterns in the sands of our birth lands Crashing on shores Expanding past the horizon Reaching deep into the depths of our imagination Listen to the land It is the earth’s belly Rumbling and churning as tectonic plates shift We sift through its soils with sticks as stones break into fragments Giving birth to life Giving birth to us We are grateful for every gift that mother earth gives We live because the life of this land is perpetuated in righteousness We are blessed To see her beauty Taste her elegance Smell her power Touch her essence This world becomes a miracle when you take time To just listen Š 2009 Kealoha www.KealohaPoetry.com
Lesson of Essence (Recess II) I was coming out the ocean Approaching the showers minding my own biz When I met this kid He must have been `bout 1 to 2 Walking but not talking yet Completely naked Skin soon to be brown But as of now completely unexposed So he looks at me and I look Back He stares intently at the red rubber ball in my hands all wide eyed And I’m like “oh, you want this ball?” He immediately grabs it bounces it and giggles He just tickled his own imagination And I continue on with my biz Shower up as if To say hey... you go play with that ball for a bit... He runs off his momma calls to him “Makana, be careful” And I’m thinking to myself Makana means gift And I continue on with my biz But this kid is captivating me He’s expressing pure joy without words as he hurls the ball With all his might I keep him in my sight As sand swishes off my feet And now I’m double, no no, triple rinsing my hair which I never really do but I’m doing all That I can to stall I just want him to experience that ball By the fifth rinse it’s time for me to go And I know it’ll be difficult for me to get that ball back But he throws it to me Appreciative of the time And at this point I’m having a very hard time leaving So I roll the ball back He picks it up Bounces it for a sec Then checks it back to me It now seems as if we’ve got game So I stay And we play Back and forth for a bit but Then he stops, Drops the ball It rolls off And he holds out his hand I go get the ball Then I give him five But realize That that’s not what he’s trying to communicate He looks sad... Or in pain, yeah that’s it it’s pain ‘Cause I now see a poki pricking into his finger I barely even touch it but he reacts automatically Shutters dramatically And yet he still stands With his hand out He trusts me with this poki
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Kealoha
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So I’m thinking... I’ve gotta do this quick otherwise We’re both in deep doo-doo `Cause his skin is like tissue It’s ridiculously sensitive And poki’s... they freaking hurt, y`all!! And his eyes Are peering into mine With pure trust You see He hasn’t yet been Sworn into a childhood Of “don’t talk to strangers they’re dangerous villains out to get you” He hasn’t had time To learn how to ignore The rest of his community as his day passes by He hasn’t learned this societal nonsense He’s simply being as his heart tells him to be Trusting... of me And he’s open and standing And I’m asking His momma who’s five feet away... “Is it okay?” She smiles and nods yes She gives me the go ahead And so I go I take a deep breath And in one swift move I grab and pull Simultaneously His body twitches temporarily But the worst is now over He looks and smiles And I nearly cry This is the essence of existence He picks up the ball as if To play again But our time has come to an end And my new friend Is wondering where I’m Wandering to As I slowly walk away saying “Makana, you can have the ball...” And for me, It was a small price to pay For a brief lesson of essence © 2002 Kealoha www.KealohaPoetry.com
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Kealoha
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
k a t
r e e d e r .
Kat Reeder is an illustrator and designer based in Makaha, O`ahu. She was born in Lima, Peru and
grew up in Miami, Florida. She is a retro freak and a bit of a romantic.
The work she does is a mix of urban art and pop surrealism. She is inspired greatly by Art Nouveau
and commercial art from the past. The imagery of her childhood days—cosmic visuals, Japanese animation, and Barbie dolls—still bring her a sense of glee. Her fascination with Victorian portraits and old commercial lithographs are often reflected in her work. Like a unique find in a vintage store, she likes to think the women in her pieces had a story long before her. She looks to textures and distressed materials to create images that transcend any particular era. Although she began as a painter, her technique has evolved to include digital painting as her primary tool of expression.
Illustration to Kat is about expressing a mood through its essence. It provokes instinctual emotions
that bond you instantly with the subject. A beautiful face can infect you with happiness, with lust, or even sadness. Exceptional beauty holds an undeniable power to persuade or to destroy. Perhaps the faces she creates are lovely Venus Flytraps, mesmerizing with their gaze, beckoning you to fall in love.
Sally’s Song digital media 8” x 10”
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Of The Sun and of The Sea digital media 8.75” x 11.25”
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Kat Reeder
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
words and images provided by Bud Antonelis
Bud has worked in the field of marine biology for 35 years. He moved to Hawai`i in 1996 and has been involved in a variety of research projects concerning the conservation and recovery of Hawaiian monk seals, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Nor t h e r n e l e p h a n t s e a l p u p s g ather at the shoreline and play to a sunset serenade.
As the sun found its way toward the horizon, the four of us sat huddled
on its path and began to sink into the Pacific. Not a cloud in the sky to
together on the 300-foot cliff overlooking the rookery. A relentless northwest
obstruct our view or to minimize the spectacular green flash easily seen by
wind blew in our faces and below we could see, hear, and smell thousands
the naked eye. We continued counting the breaches, 34, 35, 36… as the
of seals and sea lions hauled out on the beach to breed, rest, play, give birth, sky did its nightly chameleon routine and slowly fused as one with the grayand suckle their young. It was our ninth field season on the northern most
black ocean, 57, 58, 59… until we could see no more.
island of the California Channel Islands. Without electricity, running water,
Green flashes occur at sunrise and sunset and typically last only one or
or other people for the four month field season, Lana, my wife and Troy
two seconds as the sun first appears or disappears from view. Little folklore
and Kyle, my sons, 8 and 6 years of age, and I cherished our home away
exists on this phenomenon, but like the ancient mariners I wonder if that flash
from home. Simple pleasures like watching the sunset became an important
was an omen of events to come.
ritual that gave us the opportunity to stop and appreciate the beauty that
surrounded us.
our 10x20-foot sheet metal house like a monster wave rattling each panel as
That night the wind increased to 45 mph and stronger gusts rolled over
“Look, a whale!” Lana shouted as she pointed offshore. It was a
it passed. At times we thought the roof would surely lift off and fly away with
humpback whale just beyond the kelp beds making its way north to the
the next burst of wind… but it held… even under worsening conditions. It
feeding grounds in Alaska. Breaching almost continually, it sent up a shroud
was such a harsh place for us to live and yet a haven for seals and sea lions
of water and foam that when hit by the setting sun turned into an explosion of
because of their thick blubber and fur to maintain body heat, absence of land
golden colors. As we counted the breaches, 21, 22, 23…, the sun continued
predators, and surrounding waters that were usually abundant with food.
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ld fe u n fo r. l o f li e c ti c a m th e w a te p s e th o w a tc h v e to a n d fr s li e to n ns mo le A n e a li o nd Ky and s ro y a T ls a g e n Yo u as s th e m b e lo w
It was 1983 and unlike previous years on island, it was apparent
dramatic changes were occurring in the ecosystem around us. The impact on the seal and sea lion populations was devastating. El Niño, now a common household phrase, was more of a novelty then and not taken too seriously until scientists were able to tie the event with many other natural disasters around the world. That season dramatic shifts in food availability were documented and the reduction of prey resulted in poor body condition and low productivity for fur seals and sea lions. The impact on the food chain along the entire coast of North America was unquestionable and many of our known seals and sea lions never returned. The only logical explanation was they had died of starvation.
The 1983 El Niño made it poignantly clear to me that the Pacific is
not a “horn of plenty,” and that I had greatly underestimated how fragile the ecosystem really is. Drawing on this renewed awareness, much of my research over the past 35 years has involved marine mammal foraging, and I have been blessed by a career full of opportunities that have taken me to the ice pack of both poles and many places in between.
My family and I moved to Hawai`i in 1996, eagerly anticipating the
opportunity to help make a difference in the conservation of protected and endangered species. My work here has focused on the oversight of research on marine mammals and turtles, but my primary emphasis has been on the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Unlike the species found off the coast of North America, monk seals benefit from El Niños which result in the southern movement of cooler, more productive waters from the central Pacific into the Hawaiian marine environment. However, even oceanographically favorable events such as the El Niño have not outweighed all of the other factors having a negative impact on the population. The most notable include: insufficient food resources, marine debris, shark predation, loss of habitat associated with climate change, and an early history of killing that began when the first humans arrived years ago.
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Bud Antonelis
maliajohnsonp
hotography.com
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Sea l i o n s m a k e t h e i r w a y t o t h e water for an evening foray in search of food.
Monk seals are endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago and have been
of our natural resources. From the mountains to the sea… the land, the
here for over 10 million years. Most are found in the Northwestern Hawaiian
plants, animals, people… everything requires a commitment to e ola pono2.
Islands with a small but slow growing group in the main Hawaiian Islands.
Fortunately, an increasing number of dedicated people are calling for a
The overall population is estimated at about 1,100, the lowest level in
greater global conservation ethic, and if the critically endangered monk
recorded history; but the plight of the monk seal would be much worse had
seal can be used as a means to capture people’s attention, why not!?
nothing been done to enhance their survival. Over the last 36+ years, many
I frequently watch the sunrise from the east side of O`ahu to get my
dedicated people contributed countless hours to the recovery of the monk “mind right.” Last year I witnessed a very different sunrise over Moloka`i. As seal, and the struggle continues.
the sky brightened, I looked through my binoculars at the center of the glow
over the island. Without anticipation, I was stunned by a flash of green in
Certainly more needs to be done to recover the monk seal, but more
importantly, conserving and protecting the habitat in which it lives will
the instant the sun made its appearance. I suspect this is not a common
benefit all of us. There are global and international implications that go
event, and so, perhaps like a seafarer who’s spent many years surrounded
beyond our shores and now scream for intervention; climate change, sea
by water, I look for signs or messages from the environment to help validate
level rise, ocean acidification, and marine debris must be addressed on a
or correct my course. In this instance, I felt energized with hope for the
global scale with each of us doing our part to improve the condition of the
future and was compelled by a sense of optimism about continuing to work
oceans. The plight of the monk seal is simply a reflection of much larger
towards making our oceans a better place for all living creatures. The timing
problems… problems that are now having huge impacts on all of us.
was perfect and as I shift from marine research to marine awareness and
education of our keiki3, I embrace the opportunity because they are the
The Hawaiian concept of ahupua`a1 is similar to that of many
indigenous people around the world. It’s all about respect and stewardship
future stewards of the ocean and those who live in it.
ahupua`a: an ancient Hawaiian land division system which contained strips of
1
land that extended from the mountain to the sea. The Ahupua`a supported a selfcontained community working with a spirit of cooperation, of caring and revering the land to meet the needs of all. 2
e ola pono: live righteously.
3
keiki: children.
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Bud Antonelis
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“ . . . . . like a seafarer who’s spent many years surrounded by water, I look for signs or messages from the environment to help validate or correct my course.”
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Inaugural Issue •maliajohnsonphotography.com Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
young artists. Kaylee Miriam Kamakanika`ilialoha Osbun age 5 Mililani Uka Elementary
I see a big tree. I was at the pretty-park. Fun with family.
Andrea Pauline Santos age 9 Kane`ohe Elementary School
Its the loving nature in this picture I love nature so I picked a nature theme to know how nature is the most nicest thing you ever see.
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Alice is an astrologer, feng shui expert, inspirational speaker, ordained
minister, spiritual educator, and channel for Goddess Pele. She is the author of A Loving Guide to These Shifting Times, Be Happy! It’s Your Choice, and has three instructional DVDs that cover various popular topics on feng shui.
Her expertise in all she does enables her to share her wisdom regularly
through workshops and seminars. Her passion lies in helping others awaken to their divine potential.
written by Alice Inoue photography: Kris Labang www.krislabang.com
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
I wear so many hats and have done so many different
things that I confuse almost everyone I meet when they ask what I do for a living, especially if they have known me for a long time or haven’t seen me for a few years. If you knew me fifteen years ago, you would have known me as the operations manager for a racquet manufacturing company, and ten years ago I was a television show host, bilingual news anchor and spokesperson for various companies.
Eight years ago I found astrology, awakened to a spiritual
path and became an ordained minister. A year later, I studied to become a feng shui consultant, and five years ago I combined it all and called myself a “Life Guide.”
As I gained knowledge and inspiration, I began teaching,
speaking, presenting, channeling, and writing, because I wanted to share my passion with more people. I came out with three instructional DVDs and wrote two books. I now use the modalities I know to guide and empower people in their lives, and I love it.
So who am I? How do I define myself? What guides me?
Am I an astrologer? Am I a feng shui consultant? Am I a minister or am I a Life Guide? These are the things I do, but I do not identify myself by any of these titles, though other people do.
To me, I am the CIO (Chief Inspirational Officer) of my
own life. Seeing my “job” as the CIO allows me the freedom to be authentic and to follow the voice of my heart. I have come to realize that it doesn’t matter what I do, only that I am inspired by what I do. I believe that if I am not living an inspired life, I can’t inspire others to live their dreams.
Growing up, I always heard the phrase, “Just be yourself!”
I never knew what this meant, because I always did what my parents, teachers or society wanted me to do so I could fit in. I was afraid of not being accepted, so I acted in accordance with everyone else’s rules. It was impossible to “be myself” because I lacked the courage to find out who I was. One day, however, the Universe decided it was time for me to find out.
I was at the height of my television career, with three
ongoing TV shows, a team of sponsors, and seven sources of income. I had stumbled into the world of media when I was thirty. One appearance led to another and I just followed the path because it was there. I was flattered and appreciative and so I worked hard to be the best I could be, although I knew I wasn’t fully inspired by what I was doing.
Right around this time a friend told me about an astrologer,
who she thought could help me find my true path. I went to see him “for fun.” What he said is etched in my mind: “Pluto will be contacting your career point in April of 2001 and you will likely move on to a new life path. What’s old will die and something new will be reborn.” At the time, I thought it unlikely and disregarded it. Interestingly, as April 2001 drew near, I began losing shows, sponsors, and other work, until I was down to one “secure” job as a bilingual news anchor. This job provided me with financial stability and health benefits so I thought I was safe.
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However, the Universe had other plans. In April of 2001, my boss said to me, ceremonies. It prompted me to look into the process of getting ordained. If I had
“I have good news and bad news. The good news is that we have successfully
followed my limiting thoughts, and those of others who said to me, “You don’t
sold the station. The bad news is that they did not want your newscast. However,
look like a minister; you’re too young and the wrong gender. No one will hire
you are eligible to collect unemployment starting tomorrow.” (I guess this was the
you,” I would have given up. However, I was inspired by the possibility that I
“good news” for me.)
could be part of a sacred celebration of love, so I pursued it further.
The next day, as I stood in line at the unemployment office, I thought about
I am on a mission to awaken everyone who crosses my path to the knowing
everything that happened. I suddenly remembered what the astrologer said and
that we each hold the key to our own freedom, and we can have it in any way
I was intrigued by how he could “forecast” my path change so far in advance
that we desire it. We have all the answers inside of us, yet we spend our lives
by tracking planetary movement.
looking outside of ourselves for love, security, abundance, praise, acceptance
and guidance. In the process, we lose our authenticity by ignoring our inner
I immediately purchased some books on Astrology, and within a day, I was
hooked. I found divine inspiration in the cycles of the planets and my passion
voice and living a life that is not truly our own.
was awakened for the first time in my life. I knew I wanted to be a professional
Life has shown me that we are here to find our “Self,” and that the Universe
astrologer.
will bring us exactly what we need in the form of people, situations, and
Inspiration is authentic. It comes from the heart and nothing can stop it, not
circumstances to nudge us in that direction. If you are not feeling “good” about
even logical thought and fears that say: “After creating such a good reputation
your life, commit to finding your spirit by listening to your inner voice, where the
on television, you will lose all respect, as people will laugh at you if you make
key to your inspiration lies.
astrology your career.” Once I learned how to delineate a chart and apply the
language of the planets to a person’s life, inspiration moved me through my fears.
life. Hire yourself as your CIO. If you are not happy and inspired in your life,
what is the purpose of having a life?
Right around this same time, I had visions of myself conducting wedding
Remember, you are the only one who will be with you for the rest of your
“Inspiration is authentic. It comes from the heart and nothing can stop it, not even logical thought and fears . . .”
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Alice Inoue
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Undersea World, acrylic on canvas, 24” x 36”
Bouquet, acrylic on canvas, 36” x 24”
Eric Leterc is the Executive Chef of The Pacific Club. He was born and raised in France and has been in the islands
for the past twenty years. An accomplished chef, he has cooked for the president of France, diginitaries and celebrities during the Cannes Film Festival and for Bill Gates’ wedding at Manele Bay on Lana`i. He has a passion for Hawaiian culture, arts and enjoys painting in his free time.
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Debbie realized her love of photography at
a very early age and blossomed into a self taught photographic artist. She has been photographing weddings, events and families for over 10 years. Her artistic vision expanded into commercial and recently nature photography. She currently resides in San Diego with her husband, two daughters and their Mr. Toby, but a part of her heart will always be on the Island of O`ahu.
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
“From the swirls of a fallen plumeria, to the vibrant sun soaked golden
sunkiss
I Left a Piece of my heart on the Island of O`ahu words and images provided by Debbie Friedrich
I didn’t know a person could fall in love with an island. That’s what happened
when my family moved to O`ahu in 2001: my heart and my soul completely resonated with the land and the people. I met a beautiful woman who would become my mentor and one of my very dearest friends, Arna Johnson. She took me under her wing, guided my photography career, taught me about the land and life and then let me soar.
When I photograph, my camera is an extension of my heart—I shoot from
my heart. I see the tenderness of the father of the bride holding on to his daughter one last time as he’s walking her to her new life ahead. I see the tears that fill the corners of the bride’s eyes as her husband gazes at her while speaking his vows. I see the groom’s elation as they take their first walk as husband and wife. Looking out amongst the guests, I see an “auntie” smiling so huge that her light shines from within. When I give the couple their images, I’m holding my breath, hoping they love them as much as I do. When I know that they are happy and are reliving their day through the images, then I breathe—I am happy too.
I had been photographing weddings and families before I moved to O`ahu,
but I never imagined how busy I would be photographing in the islands. I was honored to be photographing so many beautiful couples and families, both locally and from all over the world. During the reception of a beautiful wedding at Paliku Gardens in Kualoa Ranch, I stopped and looked over to my left up the majestic peaks of the Ko`olau and then to my right, gazing at Mokoli`i Island
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colors of a ti leaf—the beauty that surrounded me nurtured my soul.“
float and the turquoise waters that surround it. I thought, “I can’t believe I’m here,
Nature. I really started to notice all the juicy bursts of color she had to offer. From
doing what I absolutely love to do. I am so blessed. Life is good.”
the swirls of a fallen plumeria, to the vibrant sun soaked golden colors of a ti leaf
Life was moving right along, the family was thriving and we were happy. —the beauty that surrounded me nurtured my soul.
Then one day my husband calls. He asked if I was sitting down. “I was offered
Of course the move was difficult. Very difficult. Settling back into our home
a promotion back in our hometown of San Diego,” he said. My heart broke. No, and life in San Diego took time. With the love and support of our family and this can’t be happening. I’m so happy here. I love it here. I love life here, I’m
friends and within each other, we began our new journey. My dear friend Geralyn
happy. Totally and completely happy. The first words out of my mouth were: “I
reminded me that the islands will always be there. My extended ohana will
can’t go yet.” It was right in the middle of the school year for our daughters, and
always be there. I took all the love and knowledge I gained during my time on
I was booked out for the next six months!
O`ahu and started over in San Diego. The images of Mother Nature that I brought
back with me helped heal my heart and nurture my soul. A flower takes its own
My husband Brian and I are high school sweethearts. When I was 17, my
family and I moved to northern San Diego in the middle of my senior year of
time to bloom, displays its beauty, dies off and another blooms. Life goes on.
high school. Shortly after that, I met Brian. We’ve been together ever since. He
always said it was destiny for us because a few years later, my parents divorced
I started to share the images that I took of Mother Nature and soon discovered
and moved away. During our entire relationship, we have always supported
that it nurtured other people’s souls too. While I continue to photograph people
With much support, and the entrepreneurial spirit of my dear friend Cheryl,
each other and let each other grow to be the people we were meant to become, professionally, I created a fine art business and an online art store through despite hardships along the way.
Etsy.com. I named my store and art business zenatona. The name zenatona is
Was this our destiny now? For us to move back? For us to move our family?
one that I created and is a blend of a state of being and a goddess. Zenatona is
For me to leave this beloved land that has nurtured me so much? Who’s in
art from Mother Nature to nurture your soul. Juicy bursts of color and reminders to
charge of this destiny anyway? Brian’s new position needed him right away. He
take a moment, pause and notice the extraordinary in everyday. A reminder, life
left in January of 2006 and moved back to San Diego. I had six months to pack, is ever evolving, life is good. You can bloom wherever you are. Plus, the islands prepare and say good bye. During that time I started photographing Mother
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are only 5 hours away . . . .
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
A n d r e D a v i s h a s b e e n i n t h e t a t t o o i n d u s t r y f o r o v e r t w e n t y y e a r s . H e o w n s R o c k S o l i d Ta t t o o i n H o n o l u l u w i t h h i s w i f e , R o b i n .
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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written by Andre Davis
Art is in everything around us. If we could only take a moment to stop, look,
listen and open our minds to this thought, we would notice that art is everywhere, continuously flowing in some way, shape or form. I truly love art and in doing so I choose to see it in everything.
I find myself always learning a new art form as a way of expressing myself
and releasing any thought or feeling that I am experiencing at that moment.
photography: Doris Bitonio Andre Davis
Foremost I am a tattoo artist by trade. Tattooing is special to me, and I am grateful and privileged to have people trust in me to create something that will permanently change and enhance their appearance forever. That at times can be a big responsibility to live up to. Believe me, I love every day that I get a chance to challenge myself.
As a husband and a father of four children, I also find that raising a family
is art. This is an art form where we are continuously growing, learning, and teaching each other. Again, art is in everything around us: It is in how we speak to each other, how we listen and understand, and how we express ourselves to our children. I believe that as our children grow, they will, in time, understand this to be true because they will remember what they observed and how they lived when they were young. Many times, I sit and reflect on the art that my family and I have created, and when I do, I smile. When my wife sees me do this she asks me, “Babe, what are you doing?” I look at her and say, “Just thinking,” and I smile.
I see my wife as art, her inner beauty and the way she makes me feel is
something that words cannot express. She is a never ending art form that is continuously connected to my spiritual vibration and teaches me many things about myself and the many things around me. Together, we are always growing and this to me is a rewarding art form. My wife is always strong by my side, always loving and patient, considering the many different time-consuming things I do. Her support and acceptance of how I choose to express my inner self as art is a blessing.
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Andre Davis
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Besides tattooing, I like to evolve myself with other things: music is one of
I also love wood carving many different styles of tiki, décor and furniture
them. I play the guitar, ukulele, shakuhachi (Japanese flute), some harmonica, using monkey pod, mango tree and koa. and I love to sing. I also hand make custom tattoo machines—every tattoo that I
do is with a machine that I have made.
through water allows my mind to relax, and at the same time it also helps with
my creative side of tattooing. I guess in some way, all of these different art
Knowing how to make a great tattoo machine can also help the artist
Another relaxing art form for me is watercolor painting. Moving the paint
apply a tattoo—if a tattoo machine is not running properly, it can result in
forms somehow link together, and in doing so they help show me that art is in
many different problems with how the tattoo turns out. I love making tattoo
everything.
machines and seeing how well they work. When I look at the tattoo I say in my
I own a custom tattoo shop called Rock Solid Tattoo. Rock Solid Tattoo is
head, “Wow! That tattoo looks really nice—and I did that with my machine!” different than other tattoo shops—it is very calming and creative inside. I am I’m making a machine for my friend who does lots of Polynesian tattooing, and
the only tattoo artists there and I have been tattooing for over twenty years.
I can’t wait for him to use it.
Every tattoo is custom and all free-hand. Nothing is from a book or off the wall-
I have always also been intrigued with photography and it is a hobby
everything is one-of-a-kind created. I keep it a very relaxed environment without
of mine. I remember late one night, thinking that I wanted to take a photo of
any distractions. When someone gets tattooed at Rock Solid Tattoo, they get
something that represented beauty. So I woke up my wife at around 1:00 a.m. great quality time without interruptions. Rock Solid Tattoo is not your average and asked her to do her hair and makeup, so I could take a picture of her with
walk-in tattoo shop. It is by appointment only, so calling and leaving a message
some flowers in her hair. Being the loving supportive wife that she is, she woke
is very necessary. People say that they love that it is a very relaxed environment
up to help me create something that resulted in one of the best photos I have
and that everything is custom. Tattooing is a big part of my life and I always
ever taken. The photo speaks for itself: it is a representation of pure beauty. challenge myself by trying to outdo what I have tattooed before. I love to do And during that time, my wife had a make-up business which allowed me to
what I do. I love to live as art.
experiment with my photography by being her photographer also, which was
very fun.
within ourselves and in everything. From a word to a touch, through understanding
and compassion; even through understanding our mistakes and acknowledging
I also hand carve bone into Hawaiian Makau (hooks) and Maori jewelry
(Hei Toki). All my jewelry creations are one of a kind. I use a traditional Hawaiian
what there are is an art form.
lashing method to hold each pendent. The rope and lashing is done all by hand, and is the method the Polynesians used a long time ago.
If we use our minds, and our hearts we can stop, look, listen and find art
Everyone has creativity within themselves and when they choose to see it,
they can create a beautiful picture out of anything.
Art is my passion, it is my life; it is a part of what makes me who I am.
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
Andre Davis
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
In Loving Memory of Lana Jo Leslie Antonelis (1949-2007)
Lana devoted her professional career to the
education of children. She had a special way with them- wise, magical, creative, generous, and compassionate. With a radiant smile reflecting her inner beauty and strength, she taught and lived her life based on the principles of unconditional love and respect for others.
Editor’s Note I recall many conversations with Lana about the joy of writing and dreams of someday authoring a book. She reminded me to keep my pen close and my heart open, for inspiration could be found everywhere. I know she is smiling down at me, so excited and proud that I am a part of this project. I am honored to include a piece from her journal in our inaugural issue. -Cheryl DeAngelo
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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Shawn Ching was born and raised on the island of O`ahu. A graduate of Roosevelt High School and formerly with KITV 4 Island Television News, Shawn is a practicing attorney with the law firm of King, Nakamura & Chun-Hoon. He specializes in personal injury, general litigation, labor, and employment law.
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written by: Shawn Ching “Oh, wait, wait,” Mom would exclaim. “Let me get my camera!” I crack up and
cancer. And that’s when my girlfriend, Stephanie, presented me with a gift:
smile to myself when I think back to my Mom, her camera, and how she loved
my first digital camera. I started to snap away—taking all sorts of pictures.
to take pictures. She wasn’t obsessed, but just really into getting that special
Thousands of them. Capturing the places Mom went, the nice people we met;
moment.
keepsakes, perhaps, that my brothers and I would always cherish. I’d make
slideshows set to music and with loved ones huddled around my computer—
“One day, when I’m gone, you all will be glad I did,” Mom often said to
me and my four brothers. Boy, was she ever right.
we’d watch the images unfold one by one. Like the time we took a family trip
to California. “Shawn, oh, I like this one,” Mom said smiling, pointing to us
Pictures are so wonderful. They remind us of where we’ve been, places
we’ve seen—but most importantly to me—they remind us of the people we love.
perched high atop the Ferris wheel on Santa Monica Pier (and taken with my
Missing a loved one? Just whip out a picture or pull up a jpeg. And there they
outstretched arm, no less). What a grand time we had. She really loved to look
are, smiling, laughing. You feel close to them again.
at my pictures.
I was never a big fan of taking pictures or being in them. But, those pictures
Maybe it was my years editing my own stories in television, I’m not really
Mom insisted on taking way back then now mean the world to me. It’s even
sure, but I find myself attracted to lines, composition, and balance. The glint of
spurred my own budding interest in taking my own snap shots.
sunshine on dark sand in Waimea, Kaua`i or the majestic Na Pali coast—a lone
No one outside of my family and very close friends has seen any of my
swimmer standing far off in the distance—or the splendid, verdant colors of the
photos. I don’t touch up photos and, quite honestly, I don’t know how. And if
mountains of the other Waimea, on the Island of Hawai`i are just some of the
you asked me about photography— like, what “aperture” means, I’d have to
thousands of captured moments since 2006.
Google it. A professional, I certainly am not. I use a scratched and dented, 7.2
megapixel, Sony Cyber-Shot, which I got as a gift from my girlfriend when I most
lovely 59 years old when she passed, our bond remains unbroken. In fact, she
needed it. It remains, perhaps, the best gift I have ever received.
lives on in so many ways in my life. One way is through all of those pictures. I
It’s been nearly three years since I said goodbye to Mom. A vibrant and
Sadly, the title of “family photographer”—and my interest in photography— can’t help but smile deep inside when I look at them. The memories are all there
was borne out of heartache. In late 2006, my Mother was diagnosed with
and, boy, how she loved to take pictures. And now, so do I.
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
Thanks, Mom.
Shawn Ching
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Puako, Hawai`i photography: Shawn Ching
Maunawili, O`ahu
Neiman Marcus
“Maybe it was my years editing my own stories in television . . . but I find myself attracted to lines, composition, and balance.”
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Shawn Ching
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Waimea, Kaua`i photography: Shawn Ching
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
Shawn Ching
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Imagine being a child living in a tent on the beach, or living with grandma
because mom is in prison. Imagine losing a parent to cancer or being moved around constantly because you have no one to care for you. Most of us cannot imagine any child in these situations yet this is the reality for many of our keiki in Hawai`i.
ProjectFocus Hawai`i (PFH) is a non-profit organization committed to helping
at-risk children through the art of black-and-white photography. The brainchild of professional photographers and former teachers Laurie Callies and Lisa Uesugi, ProjectFocus Hawai`i has been working with at-risk children for the past five years. What started out as a labor of love has become a full-time passion for these talented artists who specialize in children’s photography.
Every year, ProjectFocus Hawai`i selects a non-profit organization that works
with at-risk children. Twelve to 15 children are selected to participate in a 12week summer internship which teaches them not only photography skills, but life skills such as goal setting and building self-esteem. In the past, PFH has worked with children from Kuhio Park Terrace, Women In Need, Kids Hurt Too, Ka Hale Ho`ala Hou No Na Wahine and the Women’s Community Correctional Facility. Of the 50 children served since 2005, over 95% are of Hawaiian ancestry and reside predominately in West O`ahu. Collectively they have suffered poverty, homelessness, drug addiction, prostitution, substance abuse, physical abuse, mental abuse, life-threatening illnesses, incarceration, domestic violence, the written by Shawn Nakamoto
death of one or both parents, neglect and more.
This year, PFH worked with 13 foster children receiving services and
support from Hale Kipa, a multi-service, non-profit agency that specializes in working with at-risk children, adolescents and their families. Earlier this summer, PFH founders Laurie Callies and Lisa Uesugi photographed each of the children on the grounds of Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch. After mastering basic photography skills using a Holga medium format camera, the children were sent on “assignment” to photograph a special person in their life. In addition to the photography assignment, the children were asked to write an essay about their subject that will accompany their photograph. They also reflect on their lives and come up with some affirmation statements which are printed in a book.
“We chose this age group because it is a critical time in their lives when
some doors will open and some will close,” said Uesugi. “The teens have been both positive and enthusiastic and we hope they will look back on this experience and keep a positive attitude—not only about art, but also about their lives and what they can accomplish. We have also been inspired by the people and organizations that consistently rally around our project. The outpouring of generosity from so many people has really made ProjectFocus Hawai`i what it is today.”
The culmination of the internship is the VIP reception where the photography
exhibit is unveiled. Each child’s photograph and essay is paired with their own photograph taken by Callies or Uesugi.
“Since starting ProjectFocus Hawai`i, we have been privileged to work
with many children from diverse backgrounds and situations,” said Callies. “All of these children are truly amazing. While their stories may be heart wrenching, their resilient spirits and their undeniable desire to survive truly inspires us to continue our efforts.” www.projectfocushawaii.com
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Here are some of the photographs and essays from The Resilient Spirit.
Jane age 18 Throughout my time spent here in Hawai`i, I have trusted few individuals. Though I have only known her for only so long, Gemma has given me the stability my life needed and has become my grounded foundation. Around her, I feel both motivated and strong. She was primarily the one who continually worked to make the most overwhelming of tasks seem like obstacles well within my ability to overcome. Both very philanthropic and a huge advocate for Hawai`i’s foster youth, I am proud of her for her tireless efforts. As a case worker for Hale Kipa, she has committed so much time towards improving the lives of numerous persons, and I believe that her dedication truly shines. My hope for Gemma is for her to continue on the path she is currently on. I know other youth will be touched by her compassion and will share my sentiments of her achieving many great successes in life. Even though she has recently moved from the isles, I want her to know that because of the courage and direction she has instilled in me, I am working harder than ever before to fulfill my dreams of one day becoming a successful psychotherapist in the military. I am a strong individual, resilient and courageous I can become the person I have always strived to be I will move forward, accomplishing the many dreams and aspirations I hold dearest to my heart
Gemma Jane’s Counselor I have known Jane for almost a year and am amazed by the changes that I have seen in her. When I first met her, she was a teenage girl with little self-esteem and high hopes. She has put forth so much effort and has achieved her goals. I watched her become grounded and stable, graduate from high school, become accepted into college, and make a brave decision to move to the mainland to start a new life for herself. Jane is an absolute joy to be around. She has the ability to make light of any situation and heightens the moods of everyone. She is dedicated to accomplishing new goals and inspires others to do the same. ”Jane, you are a brave woman with a warm heart. You are a natural leader and teacher with a promising future ahead of you! I wish you nothing but the best and am confident that you will achieve anything you put your energy into!”
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
Project Focus
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Brendan age 13 My grandma Diane is the person I chose. She tries her hardest to give me a good life. She makes me feel like someone is there for me. My grandma helps me when I’m sick and cares for me. I am proud of her because we have so little but she gives me so much. She inspires me to be happy and live a good life. She raised good family in her life. If I could tell her one thing I would say, “Thank you for all you did for me and I love you.” I am a kind person I can learn to help others I will become a professional body boarder
Diane Brendan’s Grandmother Brendan took my picture and he is my grandson. He loves to surf and work on the computer. He likes to play with his nephews and go to the beach with his uncle. He is smart and helps around the house. I want him to go to college and complete it so he can be smart like his mother.
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Jeff age 17 This is Lyla Tatafu. She is my teacher. She takes me to school activities and stays after school with me. She helps me to be a better person by helping me on my school curriculum. She also helps me to be more honest with myself and others. She is there when I am feeling bad, like when I was fighting with my brother. She said everybody fights. This person makes me feel spoiled; she gives me good vibes even when I get in trouble. No matter what, she never gives up on me.. “Mrs. Tatafu, you are like a mom to me.“ I am a creative inventor I can live life fearlessly I will fly back to the state where I was born
Lyla Jeffrey’s Teacher Jeff first came to my class during his 8th grade summer for summer school. He is a very inquisitive student and I could always count on him to raise his hand, answer or ask questions and add comments to my lessons. Jeff comes from a nice supportive home. He was always eager to help me with the other students. For example, he would initiate activities with them such as playing catch, blowing bubbles, or helping them with art activities. Jeffrey has a strong will to survive. He can pick himself up and move on, amidst failures. My dream for Jeff is to become self-sufficient, gainfully employed and an upstanding citizen to make good contributions to society. “Jeffrey, remember that night when you came to me, full of excitement, wanting to show me how handsome you looked dressed in your JROTC uniform? I felt very honored that you wanted to share your moment with me. I was so proud of you.”
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
Project Focus
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Dezandria age 18 This is my mom Zan. She is a single mother of six and a very strong lady. I am proud of her because even though she made some wrong choices in her life, she is trying to make up for all the lost years with her children. I am proud to have the mother back that I have been missing in my life. I chose to photograph her because at this point in my life I feel like we are closer to each other than ever. When I am with her a lot of feelings run through me. Sometimes I feel like I am a little kid again because half of my childhood days were spent not living with her. I just feel like starting where we ended. My mother is sometimes like my sister, a sister that I can express my feelings and problems to, a sister that can provide a helping hand, a sister to give me the support I need to keep strong. I always wanted to tell my mother this but could never find the right words to express my feelings. “Mom, I am more than glad to have you back in my life trying your best to make things work. I love you!” I am optimistic and unique I can be tough on the outside but soft on the inside I will be a psychologist for foster children and make a difference
Zan Dezandria’s Mother My photographer is my daughter who I call Darla. When she was a teenager, I can remember her being very responsible with her schoolwork and always helping with her siblings. She would always look out for her loved ones, including me. I like spending quality time with Darla; just hanging out, getting to know her and making up for lost time. I am so very proud of my daughter because she has become such a wonderful young lady. For all that I’ve put her through she has overcome many crises to get to where she is today. My dream for Darla is to be the person I always wanted to be, which is the path that she’s on. “I am very proud of you. Keep up the good work and remember that I will always be there for you. I love you very much.”
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
Ho`okupu was taken the day after the Merrie Monarch hula competition on the island of Hawai`i at the Halema`uma`u Crater in the Volcanoes National Park. Upon paying a visit to the fire goddess, Tutu Pele, members of Ka Leo O Laka I Ka Hikina O Ka La, led by www. a l w o r dKaleo m a g a zTrinidad, ine.com 40 Kumur eHula tied their lei together and tossed it into the crater as a gesture of gratitude, honor, and respect.
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Inaugural Issue • © Nove ber/ 09 w wmw. uDl eucae mrbt e. rc2o0m
faces.
These are the people of Hawai`i. What story are they telling you?
f
g
h
a. Cole Antonelis b. Ah Lan Leong c. Rene Bitonio d. Desiree Loperfido e. Rose Meisenzahl f. Judah Ota-Stevens g. Vincent Bongiorno h. Maya Rose DeAngelo Send an image to be featured in FACES: submit@realwordmagazine.com www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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purity.
e
benevolence.
d
caution.
c
wonder.
b
experience.
a
submissions. Real Word Magazine features original work that give our readers a view of life in Hawai`i. We
welcome you to submit inspiring pieces that embrace respect, honor, pride, philanthropy, and gratitude.
www.realwordmagazine.com submit@realwordmagazine.com
james lloyd.
Originally from the mountains of Colorado, James C. Lloyd moved with his family to Hawai`i in 2006. Having
earned his high school diploma this year, James is considering going to college and further pursuing his photography. He currently resides on the island of Kaua`i, where he enjoys the beautiful flora and fauna of the Garden Island. This photograph was taken from Hanalei Pier on Hanalei Bay at sunset.
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
submission
cris bay.
September 14, 2009
ability and now I feel inspired, compelled to receive and re-awaken this talent. A Letter To The Publication: I apologize for the untimely submission of my article, as I have missed out on the submission deadline of September 18th. Reality has I would like to congratulate you for this timely publication as it unfortunately stricken me as I have been out of commission for almost represents a breath of fresh air, a feeling of rebirth and new beginnings. a week. It started off with my rush to urgent care, and then getting I foresee this new magazine will empathize and sympathize with the transported via ambulance to the hospital ER and finally admitted into real issues and experiences that affect the individual lives of the people the hospital. Today, I’m back and one of the first things on my mind is to of Hawai`i, and show us that although we come from varied and mixed submit my article (see attached). backgrounds, we somehow live parallel lives. And, in spite of the I look forward to the inaugural issue of Real Word Magazine unexpected trials and tribulations that come along the way, we simply and mahalo to all the talent out there for collaborating, sharing, and need to have a better appreciation of life, of oneself and our community. contributing every sort of creative media—from poetry, photography, In the meantime, we can expect the sun to shine and aloha to come from personal anecdote, drawings, paintings, etc. our ohana (family), friends and even the unlikeliest strangers to spread Real Word Magazine will truly serve to provide a venue for the that feel-good, infections, positive energy. flowing of creative juices and diverse talent and the sharing of captivating I would like to contribute my first article Anthurium from my journal energy and all that is real, inspiring and positive. entitled Reality Strikes In Honolulu City. This burst of inspiration gave birth in Hawai`i as I came face to face with myself, my health, my hopes, Much Aloha & Mahalo my dreams and aspirations. I have come to the conclusion that what I truly desire to be is a writer. I’ve hidden, tucked away and buried my writing Cris Bay
Anthurium, excerpt from Reality Strikes in Honolulu City, a journal by Cris Bay.
I am surrounded by a variety of breathtaking flowers that bring
sunshine to my day during my chemotherapy treatment days. One of my favorite flowers, beautifully arranged in a woven basket, is the Anthurium.
Anthuriums are precious tropical flowers which are open and heart-
shaped. They are also known as “The Heart of Hawai`i.” Anthuriums symbolize hospitality. They are used to indicate happiness and abundance.
Although an irresistibly beautiful, exotic, long-lasting flower, there lies
a side of Anthuriums that is unattractive. Did you know that all parts of the Anthurium plant are poisonous? The sap can cause skin irritation, and if ingested may cause mild stomach disorders.
I relate this with my journey through cancer, as I was diagnosed with
Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) here in beautiful Hawai`i (May 2009)—a land of paradise, hospitable people, and overflowing with aloha and ohana.
LMS is rare, incurable and hides behind a benign tumor. Behind
the beauty of living in Hawai`i, I need to go deeper and find a way to counter all medical definitions of LMS, and go through my own spiritual journey and breakthrough; I have Faith, Hope and Love that through God’s Healing Touch, His Grace, His Mercy, His Strength, and His Plan for my life, I will not only survive but thrive to live to the fullest and lead an amazing life full of happiness, peace, prosperity and abundance, and be surrounded by those who are near and dear to my heart, those whom I love and are precious to me… my family and friends.
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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submission
derek glaskin.
“In my painting Calisto you see my muse as she rises from and above the `aina, for it is I who see her beauty. On hearing
Calisto oil enamel, gold leaf on canvas
her soft, sweet voice I am enchanted, inspired, dedicated to follow the breath of her singing soul. A long time voice, lost
48” x 48”
in the wilderness, the comfort of finding my love, my muse, my wife, my country, eases. Her ‘aumakua swim next to me, her love of expression, that which I lack as a man, this shark goddess enlightens. In clouds of ancestry, our ancestors peering, deep in the ocean her image reflecting. I am in love with my muse.” - Derek Glaskin www.glaskinsgallery.com.au
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
submission
brandon tabiolo.
Brandon
Tabiolo
is
a
self-taught,
on-location
photographer in Honolulu specializing in men and women, natural island beauty, lifestyle, and commercial and advertising work. He began photography in July 2007 and admires “natural light” photography the most. He loves to shoot an array of subjects including landscape and stilllife, but has higher interests that are most noticeable when photographing people. He strongly believes in quality over quantity and in attention to detail. In two years, Brandon has transitioned to shooting full-time and absolutely loves what he does.
“I always look forward to my photo shoots, because for me it’s always free expression: every photo shoot is different. Sometimes you just never know the final product until you actually start shooting and I believe that is what inspires me a lot—creating an image on the spot, painting with instant colors, light and subjects, creating art.”
www.tabiolo.co m
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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submission
ryan higa.
Born and raised on O`ahu, Ryan Higa’s work
can be found in The Contemporary Museum and in private collections in the U.S., Japan and Europe. His art has been featured in exhibitions in Hawai`i, as well as Seattle, Ann Arbor, Philadelphia and Memphis.
In 2001, Ryan created the alter-world of
Gruntled Funk. Gruntled Funk represents a series of works depicting the strange, humorous world hovering between cute and the sinister. Many of the characters and landscapes represent encounters in his artistic, academic and cultural life experiences. Gruntled Funk seeks to stir the artist that lives inside its audience. Higa’s art practice is focused on whimsical paintings and sculptures that keep people smiling, curious and open.
Super3 Postcard 6” x 4” 2009
w ww.gruntledfunk.com
Plenty enough for none acrylic painting on wood panel 20” x 10” 2009
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Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
submission
justin white.
Hawai`i Superman* acrylic on canvas 4’ x 8’ *This painting was donated to the Ke Kukui Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded to promote and perpetuate the Hawaiian/Polynesian cultural arts and heritage within the Pacific Northwest community.
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
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submission
Justin graduated from Kalani High School in 2003 and acquired his B.A. in Graphic Design at Portland
State University. There, he worked for a year as a freelance artist doing murals, logos and various other projects.
Waikiki, O`ahu www.jtwhitespace.com
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Justin White
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
submission
rita coury.
The joy of life is evident in all of Rita Coury’s
photography. An artist from the tender age of five, photography was a natural extension. Rita honed her self-taught skills at the Academy of Art University in
San
Francisco
where
she
learned
studio
management on the job as a studio manager from the time she was 16 until she graduated with a BFA in Photography (Portraiture). Her choice of specialty: fine-art portrait photography permits Rita Coury to emphasize the unique and emotional/personal side of her subjects. Her objective with all of her photo art, no matter who or what the subject, is to capture the truth with minimal posing or manipulation.
Now a resident of Honolulu, when Rita isn’t in
the studio or on location, or teaching art expression to children, she will most likely be in the ocean, swimming and studying the marine life.
www.ritaco u r y. c o m
www. r e a l w o r d m a g a z i n e . c o m
50
submission
w w w. r i t a c o u r y p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m
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Rita Cour y
Inaugural Issue • Nove m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 0 9
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