Āina, Oahu, 2025

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Keili and Hana Pua chant Mele Kāhea before Kānehoalani. An ask of permission to the ʻāina: may we enter with care. Keili and Hana offer their ʻoli, a calling-in and a bow to what is greater than us. Sisters in the beginning of their hula journey: a path rooted in lineage, the hands of their ancestors, guided by respect, and the spirit of Hawaiʻi.

Steep stands the mountain in calm,
Profile of Waiʻaleʻale at Wailua.

One with the stream-spanning plank of Waikini,
Filched away by Nounou;
Shut off the view of the hill Ipuhaʻa,

And the upland expanse of Kapaʻa.

Give voice and make answer.

Dead silence; no voice in reply.

Babo, France, 2026

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Our grandfather, « Babo » in Corsican, grew up surrounded by polyphonies, yet never sang himself. Ten years ago, he built up the courage to take the leap and sang in public for the first time.
He has been singing every day since.
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The sanglier is a constant presence in Corsican nature; not a metaphor, but a living part of the land.