In May of 2019, our company was contacted by The Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay, who wanted to collaborate a cultural mural project at the resort. The theme of the mural “Aloha” serves as a greeting for all guests visiting the property through the main entrance from the parking lot. Lead muralist, Ken Nishimura, was tasked to create a mural design using vibrant colors and kapala (patterns) designed by Sig Zane (a well established Hawaiian fashion designer) which was purchased outright by the resort. The mural design was guided by cultural practitioner and mentor Kumu Keala Ching. To honor and respect the Hawaiian culture, our company consults with Kumu Ching in regards to any art, design or mural with a cultural theme which allows the art to be accepted by all communities. The kapala designs that were used for the mural represents niho mano (sharks tooth), akule (big eyed scad or mackerel) and the hahalua (manta ray). The marine life used in the mural, was created into symbols by Sig Zane and then patterned by our company with the guidance of Kumu Ching.
Artist Nicky Collins, born and raised in the County of Hawai’i, lead the way with her expertise and professionalism. Miss Collins partnered with our company on numerous projects and is a highly skilled artist as well as a cultural practitioner which made her perfect for this project. Danielle Burnside, a resident of Kailua-Kona, contributed her time towards the project and is a an amazing illustrator and painter. Miss Burnside is a supporter of our company and has also dedicated her time in assisting with a mural at Kealakehe High School and mentored students throughout the collaborative mural process.
“The Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay has had the privilege to collaborate with Ken Nishimura, CEO and founder of Keep it Flowing, LLC in designing a mural in one of our public spaces. This space was in need of a transformation of bringing the Breath of Life or “Ha” back as to revive and acknowledged this area as being part of our Sheraton Kona Ohana. After sharing our vision with Ken and answering thought out questions, he consulted with our team regarding this space and wasted no time and began the process of creating our Aloha Mural”.
“Today, Guests, Associates and community members are welcomed and greeted by our Aloha Mural. Aloha aku, Aloha mai…Love given is Love received”.
_Sheraton Kona Management Team
On May 21 we celebrated the completion of the mural with an unveiling ceremony with included a blessing by Kumu Rolinda Bean and Nicky Collins. Paul Evasick, General Manager of Sheraton Kona was amazed with the mural and has plans to continue the mural down the corridor as the next phase of the resorts beautification and development begins.
