About Us
What does Naʻau Walaʻau mean?
In Hawaiian language, "Naʻau" refers to your gut, and "Walaʻau" means to talk. So "Naʻau Walaʻau" is a fun way to refer to the source of all the stories that are shared through our designs. Each of Kamaka's designs shares a story about Hawaiian culture, lifestyle and values. Each story allows each product to become a storyteller that is shared around the world. From high-end jewelry to traditional loin cloth, Naʻau Walaʻau Designs brings light to Hawaiʻiʻs heritage.
WHO IS THE ARTIST?
Kamaka Pili is a Native Hawaiian from Kailua, Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi.
Being raised in Hawaiʻi, Kamaka was brought up in a multi-cultural enviornment, however it is Native Hawaiian culture and values that pulls on his spirit the most. Being of Native Hawaiian and other Polynesian decent, Kamaka believes it is his kuleana (responsibility; privilege) to perpetuate his cultural traditions in this modern, fast-past world full of business, politics, development and money. Here in Hawaiʻi, the world recognizes the beauty of our islands, however the lack of awareness, recognition and respect towards the history, culture and traditions of the Hawaiian people are also recognized. This is an issue with many indigenous people around the world, and through all the projects he comes across, Kamaka tried to share stories and educate about Hawaiʻi, our culture, our kūpuna (ancestors) and their voices.
From hula (dance) to lomilomi (massage) to lāʻau lapaʻau (natural medicine) to kapa (natural cloth) to oli (chant) to heʻenalu (surfing) and beyond, Kamaka has the passion to grow his knowledge of Hawaiʻi's past and learn where he comes from. With his experience and networks in not just the Hawaiian community but also both the hospitality and retail industries, Kamaka is ʻeleu (energetic; eager) in finding ways to build bridges between authentic Hawaiʻi and the world.
Products that connect you to Hawaiʻi
Each product is connected to Hawaiʻi's culture, therefore it connects you with our native stories. From high-end, sterling silver jewelry, to traditional loin cloth or malo, to even pareu (sarong) for men and women, we provide products for everyday life in modern Hawaiʻi.
Every design holds stories of our culture
Each product shares a design, and every design shares a story. From promoting men to wear traditional malo, to sharing the messages of Aloha by Auntie Pilahi Paki, to sharing knowledge on our plants and its uses, we strive to share Hawaiian culture with every product.