A must see work of art
In transforming Central Pacific Plaza, we commissioned a kinetic art piece to celebrate our roots in Hawaii, the sounds of the ocean, invite the community into our space and offer a glimpse into the future of Central Pacific Bank.
A must see work of art
In transforming Central Pacific Plaza, we commissioned a kinetic art piece to celebrate our roots in Hawaii, the sounds of the ocean, invite the community into our space and offer a glimpse into the future of Central Pacific Bank.
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Inspired by the ocean
Named Kai nu’u o Kanaloa, or Kai for short, the artwork’s name translates to The Rising Tide of Kanaloa. Kai means ocean, nu’u alludes to the summit, and Kanaloa refers to one of the four great gods of the Hawaiian pantheon, also known as god of the sea, the tides and ocean navigation.
The ocean’s cultural relevance and symbolism of strength, opportunity and adventure was the inspiration for this art piece. It’s made of 48 rain sticks that move in real-time to recreate real waves off Hawaii’s shores. Ocean buoys provide data so the art piece can bring each wave’s movement and sound to life. The system is indicative of CPB’s fascination with innovating around world-class technology – as it can be programmed to pick up the data of any number of buoys around the Hawaiian Islands. It's almost a high-tech yet beautifully visual surf report.
Made by many hands
Kai was created by Espadaysantacruz Studio in partnership with Phenomenon, 1st Ave Machine and Hana Productions. It was designed, coded and tested in Espadaysantacruz's workshop in Madrid before being assembled in Honolulu. Local artists and craftsmen sculpted its steel structure, built its mahogany paneling and connected each rainstick to move according to the live data feed.
Connected to the community
Kai is part of Central Pacific Bank’s mission to create a public space for the community, just like Tidepools at CPB, a coworking space for local business owners and non-profits. The installation is meant to reflect our deep connection to the community, contribute to Hawaii’s art scene, and provide a moment of peace by bring a bit of nature into downtown Honolulu.