The nightlife all begins at sunset by taking the time at the end of an exhilarating day to watch that big yellow ball slowly descend into the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. From Poipu to Polihale State Park to Kee Beach to the Na Pali coast, there is nothing more relaxing, rejuvenating and energizing, especially if you wait for that moment of the “Green Flash” that occurs when the sun kisses the ocean goodnight and sinks beyond the horizon.
Are you ready to hit the town and check out the island’s entertainment and nightlife? These the best places to go on the island:

Nightclubs and after dark entertainment:

Rob’s Good Times Bar and Grill – in Lihue is a fun, casual, “local” sort of establishment. Big on entertainment and low on price, here you can kick-back, enjoy a great beer or cocktail from the full bar…grab a bite to eat (great business lunch starting at 11 am)…watch the game on the ten TV’s and the 10 foot projector television…listen to music and dance (live country on Wednesdays – DJ hosted popular music Thursday, Friday and Saturdays)…sing some karaoke (Sunday, Monday and Tuesdays,) shoot some pool on the two tables. Open from 11 am till 2am and at 8am Sundays during football season, you should be able to find some fun activities happening whenever you feel like partying. 808.246.0311
Shutter’s Lounge – Hilton Kauai Beach Resort: Open from 6 p.m. to midnight, featuring live music nightly, Specialty drinks and tasty appetizers.
Sunday Darryl Gonzales 7-10pm – Contemporary Hawaiian
Monday    Billy Paul   7-10pm -  Contemporary/Country Western
Tuesday                 Jonah Cummings 7-10pm – Contemporary Hawaiian
Wednesday Larry Rivera & Friends 7-10pm – Traditional Hawaiian
Thursday   Mike Smith & Shaun Mederios 7-10pm – Light Jazz
Friday  Darryl Gonzales & Jonah Cummings 8-11pm – Contemporary Hawaiian
Saturday   Michael Ruff & Trey Thompson 8-11pm – Contemporary Jazz
4331 Kauai Beach Drive, Lihue. 808.246.5524
Café Portofino – on the beach at the Kauai Marriott at Nawiliwili. Enjoy live music nightly with harpist Jovanni at “one of America’s most romantic restaurants.” Reservations recommended: 808.245.2121.

The Coconut Marketplace – After you have finished your day of adventuring, sun bathing and surfing you should head on over to the Coconut Marketplace where the real fun is just beginning…

The Trade Winds Bar and Grill is a typical “Polynesia” style bar. Here you will find some real local color and conversation. Located in the Coconut Marketplace in Kapa’a. 808.822.1621

Kauai Hula Girl – Live Hawaiian Entertainment Nightly, Hula Girl Happy Hour. Stop by and you’re likely to catch some of the incredible guest dancers. You never know who you might see perform. 4-484 Kuhio Hwy Ste B, Kapa’a, HI 96746-1430 (808) 822-4422

On your way over to the Trade Winds and Hula Girl you can take in a free hula dancing show. Every type of Hawaiian, from the teeny-tiny little ones, youngsters to middle-age, even great-grandmothers join the show and hula for visitors. The ancient art of the hula is amazing, and watching so many different generations taking part is spectacular and very entertaining.
The Hukilau Lanai Restaurant – is a great place to start your evening as you can check out the live music on Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., depending on the restaurants schedule as occasionally it does change. Here you can sit back, relax, have a couple of cocktails and dinner, or just enjoy the music. With special treats like “20 Great Wines for under $20, nightly pu pu creations, friendly setting and weekly evening entertainment…you’ll be tempted to never leave. Located in the Kauai Coast Resort just behind the Coconut Marketplace. 808.822.0600

   
Blossoming Lotus – in Kapa’a has live entertainment nightly. 808.822.7678.

Keoki’s Paradise in Poipu – Here you can enjoy the fun with a mix of locals and tourists alike. The fun and lively Bamboo Bar features tropical cocktails, seafood and cafe bar, sumptuous appetizers, and live Hawaiian entertainment in the evenings Monday through Friday. Whether you are in the mood for a leisurely lunch, family-friendly dinner, or evening cocktails and music, Keoki’s Paradise is simply paradise.  Live music on Thursdays and Fridays with no cover charge. 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Dr., Koloa 808.742.7534
 

The Point – At the Sheraton Kauai Hotel is one of the most happening places on the island. Located right on the water, this adds to the vibrant atmosphere of dancing the night away.
• Thursday night is “Old School Rewind”, music from the 70’s and  80’s selected by DJ Shawn Tico, 8:30-12:30 no cover.
• Friday is “Aloha Friday Surf Night” featuring Kauai’s only vintage instrumental surf band, The Takeoffs http://www.myspace.com/thetakeoffs  Surf favorites by The Ventures, Blue Hawaiians, The Mermen and many more.  No cover.
 • Saturday – “Salsa Fiesta” with free salsa lessons from 8:00-9:00pm, and music by DJ Shawn and Friends from 9:00pm-12:30pm. 

 As always, no cover!
 You will really love “The Point” no matter what day of the week it is. There is no cover charge. Light Lunch & Appetizers, $12 & up . 808 742.1661 x 3571. 

The SeaView Terrace – At the Grand Hyatt Hotel, 1571 Poipu Road in Koloa. Catch the balmy ocean breezes from this open air, peaceful lounge. In the afternoon, SeaView offers early cocktails and a selection of pu pu’s (appetizers) to begin your night of fun. As day turns to evening, be sure to visit The SeaView for one of the most stunning sunsets you’ll see, accompanied by a traditional torch lighting ceremony, live Hawaiian entertainment and wonderful Hula demonstrations. Hours:  6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. 808.742.1234.

Stevenson’s Library – Robert Louis Stevenson never had it this good. If you’re a jazz buff, stop in at Stevenson’s Library in the Grand Hyatt, Kauai, where there’s great listening every night. The warm woods and intimate seating areas of this classic lounge create a welcoming atmosphere. Take a seat at the 27-foot, hand crafted koa wood bar or select a table in the cozy booked lined room. Reminiscent of a Victorian-era gentlemen’s club, Stevenson’s Library boasts an extensive selection of Cognac and Port and plenty of entertainment. Enjoy a game of pool, backgammon or chess or just relax to the soothing sounds of the live Jazz. Stevenson’s also offers a full menu of freshly prepared Sushi, served Friday through Monday evenings 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Hours: 6:00 p.m. to 11:45 p.m., daily. Minors are permitted in Stevenson’s Library 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 808.742.1234.

The Lounge – at ResortQuest at Maka’iwa in Kapa’a has music every night 7-9 pm. 808.822.3455.

Caffé Coco – has Live Music nightly in the Garden featuring: Hawaiian Thursday, Hula Friday and Jazz Sunday. Located at 4-369 Kuhio Highway in Wailua. 808.822.7990.

Kintaro’s - Cocktails and pu pu’s are served in a comfortable, attractive lounge, where you can sip a wonderful chi chi, sample elegant sashimi, or munch on crispy fried won tons from the owner’s factory next door. 4-370 Kuhio Highway , Kapa’a: 808.822. 3341.

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler – “right on the beach” in Poipu. Happy Hour specials and a young local crowd. There’s no music but the views are out of this world! 2100 Hoone Road, Poipu; 808.742.7588 

CJ’s Steak & Seafood – Besides great food at a reasonable price, you can also enjoy yourself in the Tsunami Bar with its colorful and descriptive views of Hawaii’s many tsunamis.  Live Hawaiian music every weekend. Weekdays 11:30 AM till closing – weekends 5 PM till closing. Located in the Princeville Shopping Center 808.826.6211.

Lighthouse Bistro -   in the Kong Lung Village Center, Kilauea  features live music nightly. Call for scheduled artists: 808-828-0480

 Fax: 808-828-0480, email finedining@lighthousebistro.com
                         
Hanalei Gourmet – Life-After-Dark in Hanalei!  Live Music, Selected Sports on Cable TV, Award Winning Tropical Drinks, Imported Beer on Tap, Great Food, Happy Hour 3:30p.m. to 5:30p.m., Dinner 5:30p.m. to 9:30p.m., Early Bird Specials 5:30p.m. to 6:30p.m. Located in the Old School Building at Hanalei Center, 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy Space 5 Hanalei, 808.826.2524 http://www.hanaleigourmet.net/door/
 
Sushi & Blues – Easy to find in the heart of Hanalei Town, Sushi & Blues is upstairs in the Ching-Young Village shopping center. Features live Jazz, Blues and Rockin’ Blues from 8:30 PM till closing.  There is always soulful music, delicious food and drinks.  808.826.9701 www.sushiandblues.com

Tahiti Nui – A lot of people love the Nui, as it’s known locally, for its old-fashioned Polynesian charm. The funky building definitely has character written all over it, harkening back to a time when Hanalei was much more laid-back and Auntie Louise ruled the roost. The bar, with its lethal mai tai’s and local clientele, is usually hopping. Live entertainment and karaoke keep things lively. Tahiti Nui’s bar features live entertainment and events nightly. Happy Hour is between the hours of 4:00PM to 6:00PM and there are different drink and menu specials. Kuhio Hwy. (Aku Rd.) Hanalei, 808.826.6277

  
 
Happy Talk Lounge – in the Bali Hai Restaurant at the Hanalei Bay Resort.  If you’re on the north shore, stop at Happy Talk Lounge for live jazz and nightly Hawaiian entertainment.
Sunday – Jazz Jam 4:30-7:30pm
Randy Carnevali, Michael Ruff, Tony Rodarte, Kirby Keough and the occasional sit-in guests play Jazz both standards and originals.
Monday – Hawaiian Music 7:00-10:00pm
Jonah Cummings plays guitar and sings Hawaiian classics old and new.
Tuesday – Hanalei Hula Show 6:30-9:00pm
Ed and Vanessa Punua, Wally and Polei Palmeira delight the crowds with Hawaiian song and hula enhanced by steel guitar.
Wednesday – Hawaiian Music 7:00-10:00pm
Recording Artist Allan Thomas plays guitar and sings Hawaiian and Contemporary music
Thursday – Hawaiian Music 7:00-10:00pm
Recording Artist Norman ‘Kaawa’ Solomon plays guitar and sings Hawaiian and Contemporary music
Friday – Aloha Friday Happy Hour (4:00-6:00pm)
Contemporary Hawaiian Music 4:30-10:00pm
Recording Artists Norman ‘Kaawa’ Solomon Daryl Gonzales and Jonah Cummings team up for a lively show of contemporary Hawaiian Music
Saturday – Hana Hou Happy Hour (4:00-6:00pm)
Contemporary 7:00-10:00pm The Trio of Randy Carnevali, Tony Lehoven, and Ed Sitzler Play jazz and contemporary originals and standards

E komo mai! (Come & be our Guests) Hanalei Bay Resort, 5380 Honoiki Road, Princeville,
808.826.6522   Web: www.hanaleibayresort.com

Polynesia Café – 1639 4-1639 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa’a. Live acoustic Hawaiian music at this family restaurant that features sushi, bakery and full bar. Open 7 am to 10 PM. 808.822.1945
The Lizard Lounge Bar & Grill – at Kapa’a in the Waipouli Town Center next to Blockbuster is one of Kauai’s popular local tropical sports bars. Pool – Electronic Darts – Video Golf – Satellite TV sports. Open for lunch & Dinner serving till 1am. Happy Hour 2 – 6pm. 808. 821. 2205
Dinner Theatre – After you have enjoyed the above locations for Dancing, Partying and great music you might want a night of a different form of entertainment. Here at the Kauai Beach Hotel you can sit back, relax and enjoy an all you can eat buffet and Award Winning Broadway Show. Call 808.246.0111 for reservations and receive 10% off all advance ticket purchases.

Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center¬ (www.kauaicc.hawaii.edu/arts.htm) – provides a wonderful venue for Hawaiian music and dance as well as a number of visiting performers. 3-1901 Kaumuali’I Hwy., Lihue. 808.245.8270

Kauai Concert Association  (www.kauai-concert.org) – offers seasonal programs at the Arts Center.  808.245.7464.

Kauai Film Commission (www.filmkauai.com ) – sponsors various film festivals at the Historic Waimea Theater (www.waimeatheater.com) throughout the year.  Annual International Film Festival (www.hiff.org)
The Historic Waimea Theatre – is a non-profit organization operated by the West Kauai Business & Professional Association fostering economic viability with the involvement of community, business and government. Their mission is to develop effective, innovative and affordable solutions to improve the economic situation and the quality of life of the residents; to develop and enhance the environment; and to revitalize the business districts by retaining the visual character and heritage of the past as we move towards the future. The Waimea Theatre originally opened on September 2, 1938 featuring the 20th Century-Fox production, “Josette”, with Robert Young, Simone Simon, and Don Ameche.
Today the renovated Waimea Theatre seats 260 patrons. It features a small stage, big movie screen, state-of-the-art sound system, snack bar and rattan loge sections.  Call 808.338.0282 for a recorded movie schedule. Box Office opens at 6:45 pm nightly, 808.338.3027. Located at  9691 Kaumualii Hwy, Waimea. www.waimeatheater.com

Lihue Public Library – hosts various storytelling, music, and ars and crafts events. 4344 Hardy St., Lihue 808.241.3222.

The Kauai Community Players  (www.kauaicommunityplayers.org) – is a talented local group that presents plays throughout the year.  Lihue Parish Hall, 4340 Nawiliwili Rd., Lihue. 808.245.7700.

Kauai Village Theatre – presents six shows per season plus concerts and feature films in a 62-seat, air conditioned theatre. Kauai Village Shopping Center, 4831 Kuhio Hwy.,Kapa’a. 808.823.6789.

Movie Theatres – After you have partaken of all the islands after-dark offerings, you might simply wish to relax and watch a great film.
• The Coconut Marketplace Twin Theater – 808.245.5005
•  Kukui Grove Cinemas Four-plex – 808.245.5055

by Michael Huffman
http://www.kauaimenu.com

Post originally from: Hawaii condo rentals

Nightlife & Entertainment on Kauai

Kauai has many fabulous restaurants that prepare the finest and freshest of foods and cuisines in the world. But sometimes, you may just want to stay in and prepare your own meal at home.  You might even wish to pick something up for your special picnic or on your way to relax on the beach…here are the best local markets where you can enjoy all the bounty that the Garden Isle has to offer:
Green Markets & Fruit Stands — The County of Kauai sponsors regular weekly Sunshine Markets throughout the island, featuring fresh Kauai Sunrise papayas (sweeter, juicier, and redder than most), herbs and vegetables used in the various Hawaiian ethnic cuisines, exotic fruit such as rambutan and atemoya, and the most exciting development in pineapple agriculture, the low-acid white pineapple called Sugarloaf, not as rare these days, but still hard to find. These markets, which sell the full range of fresh local produce and flowers at very fair prices, present the perfect opportunity to see what’s best and what’s in season. Farmers sell their bountiful crops from the backs of trucks or at tables set up under canopies. Mangoes during the summer, numerous lettuces all year, fleshy bananas and juicy papayas, the full range of Filipino vegetables (wing beans, long beans, exotic squashes, and melons), and an ever-changing tapestry of edibles are all for sale.
The biggest market is at Kapaa New Town Park, in the middle of Kapaa town, on Wednesday’s at 3pm. The Sunshine Market in Lihue, is held on Friday’s at 3pm at the Vidinha Stadium Parking Lot, is almost as big in size and also extremely popular. The schedules for the other markets: Koloa Ball Park, Monday’s at noon; Kalaheo Neighborhood Center, Tuesday’s at 3:30pm; Hanapepe Park, Thursday’s at 3pm; Kilauea Neighborhood Center, Thursday’s at 4:30pm; and Kekaha Neighborhood Center, Saturday’s at 9am. For more information on Sunshine Markets, call 808.241.6390. Especially at the Koloa Market, this draws hundreds of shoppers, so go early shop hard and shop fast! There is also the Kauai Products Fair (www.kauaiproductsfair.com) located in North Kapaa on Hwy 56. Experience Kauai’s culture with all the fresh produce, tropical plants and flowers, artisans, aloha wear, island food, wellness practitioners and various form of entertainment…always free Wednesday thru Sunday 9am to 5pm 808.246.0988.
On the North Shore, Kilauea is the agricultural heart of the island, with two weekly green markets: the county-sponsored Sunshine Market, Thursday at 4:30pm at the Kilauea Neighborhood Center; and the private Kilauea Quality Farmers Association (mostly organic growers) Farmers Market, Saturday from 11:30am to 1:30pm behind the Kilauea Post Office. Everything in the markets’ wide-ranging selection is grown or made on Kauai, from rambutan and long beans to sweet potatoes, corn, lettuce, and salsas and chutneys. The markets are a dramatic, colorful illustration of how farming activity and enterprises are growing by leaps and bounds in Kilauea.
Also on the North Shore, about a quarter mile past Hanalei in an area called Waipa, the Hawaiian Farmers of Hanalei — anywhere from a dozen to 25 farmers — gather along the main road with their budget-friendly, just-picked produce. This market is held every Tuesday at 2pm. You’ll find unbelievably priced papayas (in some seasons, several for a dollar, ready to eat), organic vegetables, inexpensive tropical flowers, avocados and mangoes in season, and, when available, fresh seafood. The best of the best, in season, are rose apples, mountain apples, and the orange-colored papaya lilikoi.
On the South Shore, there’s great things said about the two adorable fruit stands in Lawai, where you can find inexpensive bananas (sometimes $1.25 a bunch!), papayas, and avocados along an old country road. The fruit are beautifully displayed, and sometimes the honor system is used — leave the money if no one is there. This is country style nonpareil. (From Kaumualii Hwy., turn at the corner — Lauoho Rd. — then take the first right.)
Closer to the resorts, in Poipu on Koloa Bypass Road, with a view across asparagus fields and the chiseled ridges of Haupu Mountain, the Poipu South-Shore Market sells produce (some of it from Haupu Growers) daily from 10am to 6pm. Haupu Growers is the major supplier of Kauai asparagus, and this is where you’ll find it. Asparagus season begins in October.
Fruit Smoothies & Exotic Treats — Fruit stands have sprouted up all over this island, and smoothies are gaining ground as the milkshake of the new millennium. New crops of exotic trees imported from Southeast Asia are maturing on Kauai, creating anticipation among residents and fruitful ideas for the smoothie world. “Everyone’s waiting for the mangosteens and durians,” comments Joe Halasey who, with his wife, Cynthia, runs Banana Joe’s (tel. 808.828.1092), the granddaddy of Kauai’s roadside fruit-and-smoothie stands. “They take about 12 years to start bearing, so there are a lot of maturing trees. We’re all waiting for the fruit. Rambutans (with a hairy, red exterior and a translucent, litchi-like flesh) are good for the farmers here because they’re available, and they’re a winter fruit. In the summer, mangoes and litchis are always in demand.”
Banana Joe’s has been a Kilauea landmark since it opened in 1986 at 52719 Kuhio Hwy., between mile markers 23 and 24 heading north, on the mauka (mountain) side of the street. Sapodilla, star apple (round, purple, and sweet, like a creamy Concord grape), macadamia nuts, Anahola Granola, and homemade breads — like banana and mango-coconut — are among Banana Joe’s attractions. The Halaseys have expanded their selection of organic vegetables and exude a quiet aloha from their roadside oasis.
Mangosteen, reputedly the favorite fruit of Queen Victoria, has a creamy, custard-like flesh of ambrosial sweetness. When mangosteens start appearing at Hawaii fruit stands, they will no doubt be in high demand, like mangoes and litchis during their summer season. In the meantime, Banana Joe has a hit on his hands with Sugarloaf, the white, non-acidic, ultra-sweet, organically grown pineapple popularized on the Big Island. Whether made into smoothies or frostees (frozen fruit put through the Champion juicer), or just sold plain, fresh, and whole, the Sugarloaf is pineapple at its best. For litchi lovers, who must wait for their summer appearance, new varieties such as Kaimana and Brewster are adding to the pleasures of the season. In addition to fresh fruit, fruit smoothies, and frostees, Banana Joe’s sells organic greens, tropical-fruit salsas, jams and jellies, drinking coconuts (young coconuts containing delicious drinking water), gift items, and baked goods such as papaya-banana bread. Its top-selling smoothies are papaya, banana, and pineapple.

by Michael Huffman

http://www.kauaimenu.com

Post originally from: Hawaii condo rentals

Farmers Markets on Kauai

Since the beginning of time, all of humankind has expressed their inherent creativity in both their work and their leisure. From rock art and cave paintings, to architecture no matter how simplistic, to body art and hair designs, from clothing and jewelry to masterpieces such as the works of Michelangelo.
The early inhabitants of Kauai certainly were no different. From the descendents of Menehune, the son of Lua-nu’u who expressed their ingenuity and creativity throughout the Garden Island of Kauai with their hand-built walls, petroglyphs, numerous terraces, temples, stone implements and images. These, the first inhabitants of the island, were real, live people of Polynesian stock who deserve the glory and honor of being the first to cross the vast expanse of ocean to Hawaii. They were the first artists, architects, master-builders and sculptors to leave their creative marks on the islands, especially on Kauai, Nihoa and Necker islands. The Menehune were not restricted to the physical arts, they enjoyed and developed dancing, singing and archery as well. The Menehune’s impact on the islands have made them the source of many legends… were they mischievous gnomes, magical mysterious beings, hard working elves, or perhaps slaves of the newly arrived Tahitians? Their influence lives on in the hearts and minds of many.

The second voyages and settlements from Tahiti, which were led by the great gods and chiefs who became the royalty of Hawaii, brought with them their natural creativity as well. Over generations, they adapted their beliefs and ways of living to accommodate their new island home. As a distinct culture took shape, it grew and evolved in response to Kauai’s steep valleys and the Hawaiian Islands’ ever changing volcanic lands.
Differences between Kauai and the larger Polynesian family grew more distinct once the era of transpacific migrations ended. In many artistic endeavors – kapa making, feather work and hula – the people of Kauai surpassed the rest of their cousins in skill and proficiency. A highly structured and sophisticated culture blossomed in the Island’s gentle climate and lush abundance. Over time, Kauai’s society grew as distinct as their endemic plant and animal communities, left for eons in isolation.

The beautiful art of lei making, which has become a symbol of all that is Aloha and Hawaii is attributed to these people. The wreaths of flowers and foliage worn by both men and women add fragrance and beauty to island life and are a wonderful example of an early Hawaiian art that has lasted for centuries. Lei are much more than flowers sewn upon a strand. There are lei of seeds, shells, feathers, and words. A special song (Mele) composed for a loved one can be a lei. All lei’s are an expression of Aloha, and are given to show and express love, joy, sympathy and as greetings and farewells. Poetically, a child is called a lei, for the child is weaving together the love of their parents and ancestors. It was in 1923 that the Hawaii Territorial Legislature approved Na Lei O Hawaii and officially selected a lei to represent each island. Mokihana is the lei of Kauai, which is a slender tree that grows in the upland forests of Kokee and no where else in the world. Although it is a member of the orange family, its fragrance is not citrus. Often described as spicy and somewhat like anise, the lei is made from several strands of seed pods and is often entwined with the leafy vine maile, that has a vanilla, woodsy scent. Unlike the flower leis, the fragrance of the mokihana lei lingers for some time after the wearer has passed by.

Hula, is a wonderful form of expressive art in dance is best described by what the “Merrie Monarch,” King David Kalakaua said. “Hula is the language of the heart, and therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people.” The Hula has many forms and styles utilized to express and convey many, many things.
Just as King Kalakaua was influential in bringing back the Hula after the period of the missionaries had driven it underground, so were the rest of Hawaii’s monarchy who provided and supported a time of explosive artistic growth, achievement, change, as well as high romance, a renaissance of its own for the people of the islands of Hawaii.

The body art of Hawaii has been applied under strict ritualistic ceremony, and often the designs chosen had hidden meaning and power. The word “tattoo” itself is one of only a few words that have a Polynesian origin (from the word tatau) coming from Tahiti, Tonga and Samoa. Early visitors to the islands found that both men and women wore tattoos in old Hawai’i for a number of reasons. Sometimes the tattoos were purely decorative. Using repeated geometrical shapes in their applications that are similar to the patterns on kapa made the art most distinctive. Tattooing was unknown in the western World prior to Captain Cook’s first voyage through Polynesia. Today, with a resurgence of Hawaiian pride, tattoos are becoming increasingly common. This is one of the few ancient arts forms that are truly Polynesian that has spread throughout the world!

Stone and wood carving have also been part of the ancient Hawaiian art forms. Using Stone Age Technology and all the ingenuity of modern man, Polynesians created a lasting style. From the giant heads of Easter Island, Maori pendants and the ancient Hawaiian poles that marked sacred areas all sprouted from a common seed. Large temple images were carved of wood and similar to others found throughout Polynesia were often figures standing with flexed knees, arms and hands with mouths open in a teeth-bared expression. Feather god images, found only in Hawaii, were also made. Their intricate feather work attached to a basketry framework. Other smaller images, often of stone, adorned smaller local or family shrines such as ko’a (fishing shrines.)
Tiki’s speak of an enchanted ancient time through a wooden or stony disposition, a dark and distant past that is hard for humankind to look at, and even harder to look away from. Tiki statues, poles, masks, and the whole genre of “Tiki Culture” are a fascinating look into human creativity, emotions and origins. American’s have become fascinated with a romanticized version of Polynesia which began after World War II and permeated the culture effecting home décor, music, clothing and architecture. Polynesian music was fused with jazz, Asian music, African rhythms, and Latin creating hybrid sounds. The musical South Pacific was preformed in theatres throughout the era of “High Tiki,” and is still preformed to this day. Although by the early 70’s, Tiki culture appeared to be dying out…yet the gods had other ideas! Since the late 80’s the culture has begun resurgence. It is indeed a way for modern humankind to escape, forget their worries and harkens back to our inner tribal roots. It is the inspiration and development of modern Hawaiian art and artists. Perhaps it is the romanticizing of the islands.
Kauai, the Garden Island of the Hawaiian chain, has been inspirational for artists of many different genres. Today, many of the artists here excel in their chosen media and enjoy the essences of the Aloha Spirit that is unique to Kaua’i. Supported by the local government and individuals there are museums and fine art galleries located throughout the island creating the vibrant artists community. This community is as diverse as the topography of the island and is as vibrant as the colors of greens on the north shore and the reds of the west side. The different styles of art on the island represent every color of the rainbow and are as beautiful and ethereal as the waves crashing along our shores. Visitors and collectors are proud to have a piece of paradise displayed in their home or gallery as a memento of their visit to the beauty, splendor and the spirit of Aloha that they experienced on the island. Throughout the world there are paintings, sculptures and photographs by local and visiting artists…a testimonial to the emotionally rousing effects of this delightful tropical island.

One of the island’s premier colorists is Mercedes Maza. Her master works encapsulate the poetic and the aesthetic with the vividness and subtlety of color and movement. Mercedes Maza is recognized as one of the foremost watercolorists in the Hawaiian Islands. A native of Colombia, Mercedes remembers her initial fascination with painting at the age of five. She further explored her interests at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where she engaged her pursuit as an artist in a variety of different mediums. In 1975 Mercedes met her mentor, Waihang Lai, a member of the American Watercolor Society (AWS) at the Kauai Community College. While under his teaching, she discovered how to portray the inner mood and emotion of a subject. Her mentor called this style of painting the expression of chi, which she now brings to life in her watercolors. She opened her first gallery on Kaua’i in 1982, sharing a building with James Hoyle and A.J. Metzger in Hanapepe. In 1992, she opened Art and Soul in Old Koloa Town where she remained until she moved to the north shore in 2000 when she opened in the Ching Young Village. Mercedes remained there until last year when she moved her gallery to the Hanalei Town Center.
In 1997 Mercedes traveled throughout Europe to immerse herself in the classical style of European art where she became drawn to the sensuality of the human figure and the vitality of architecture and gardens. Upon returning to the Island of Kaua’i she rediscovered the essence and the mood here to create her striking watercolors of landscapes, seascapes, floras and figures that sustain the integrity of the island and bring feelings of light and harmony. Mercedes has the ability and the passion to move viewers and collectors to identify the inner spirit. recognized in Hawaii as one of its foremost watercolorists. Her work hangs in collections nationwide to include patrons such as Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Lionel Richie, Buffy Saint Marie and Taj Mahal.
Her gallery, appropriately named Art and Soul, is located just past the “Wishing Well” Shaved Ice Truck heading north into Hanalei town at Hanalei Town Center. We encourage you to drop by and experience her work which fuses the vibrancy of the island colors with the classical European Style and Asian brushwork. Mercedes Maza.
One can view the works of Mercedes Maza at the Princeville Hotel where she displays her work every Monday and every other Friday evening from 6PM to 10 PM.
Art and Soul Gallery also showcases a different artist on the third Saturday of each month along with a reception beginning at 4 PM. The following artists are being showcased: In August, Damian Miles of Renaissance Baby and Island Baby is exhibiting a 20 year retrospective. In September, Isaiah Halpin will be sharing his unique photography. In October, Ric Madden will be showcasing his beautiful watercolors. In November, Mercedes will be exhibiting a new series of her works and in December there will be a group showing.
Please contact the gallery toll free at: 877.SoulArt (877.768.5278) or on the web at http://www.maza-art.com/

You will find the Ship Store Galleries in Kapa’a, at the Coconut Marketplace– the island’s largest and oldest fine art gallery – they invite you to explore the most expansive collection of marine art in the Hawaiian Islands during its upcoming exhibition season – now through December, 2007. The featured artist is Raymond A. Massey, known for his meticulous recreations of significant marine historical events. Massey’s art hangs in some of the most prestigious museum and corporate collections in America and his intricately beautiful works of art are only available at Ship Store Galleries – the exclusive worldwide showcase for this history-making painter – a “fellow” in the American Society of Marine Artists.
Ship Store also showcases the whimsically adorable art of Rosalie Rupp Prussing. The 83 year old grandmother is Hawaii’s most colorful and best known folk artist. Her prints are visually appealing, quite affordable and somewhat habit forming.
The gallery is also exhibiting bronze sculptures by Dale Evers and Joseph Quillan. Other exhibits featured in the gallery include: Janice Darr Cua, Hisashi Otsuka, Caroline Young, Steven Power, Lance Fairly, Michael Protiva, Dee Kirby N. Jonas Englund and introducing the intriguingly beautiful watercolors of Kauai’s Ric Madden.
The gallery also boasts the finest collection of marine antiques in Hawaii along with many other exceptional antique items from the Pacific region. The collection is so extensive a collection that even museums have been known to shop at Ship Store. Ship Store Galleries is located in the Coconut Marketplace in Kapa’a – open seven days a week – for more information – call 822-4999. Online at www.shipstoregalleries.com or email – shipstore@aol.com.
On the south shore in Poipu is Po’ipu Fine Arts.

Aloha E komo mai! Po’ipu Fine Arts welcomes all lovers of art — from the casual collector to the avid art connoisseur. Providing; Originals, Editions, Commissions and Commercial Residential Projects. They are proud to showcase the best contemporary artists in Hawaii:

The original paintings and limited edition giclee on canvas by Walfrido, Noelito,
Kim McDonald, Brigitte D’Annibale, John Pitre, Grant Pecoff, exquisite woodcraft by Ki of Kaua’i, sculptures in cast bronze by Scott Hanson, and Victor Issa; The art of knife making by William Henry, and the collection by the most influential Marine Life Artist of our time, Wyland.

Their welcoming and knowledgeable staff would be pleased to assist you in your selection, and provide the expertise they have gained from their years of professional experience in the arts. Poipu Fine Arts offers guidance through the entire art selection process, from the initial consultation to the final purchase. Poipu Shopping Village – 2360 Kiahuna Plantation Drive, Koloa HI 96756
Phone # 808-742-8338 – Fax # 808-742-8358 – Toll Free # 1-800-992-5106
e-mail: info@poipufinearts.com
website: www.poipufinearts.com

Hawaiian Scene’s Treasure Hut is found at the Aloha Center Marketplace in Nawiliwili by the harbor, is special place presenting some of Kauai’s best local artists in oil and water color. These are stand alone pieces of our island’s scenic beauty, the local people and culture. Featuring Ric Madden’s water colors accented with a fresh Eastern Flair touching and expressing the island’s aloha spirit. Exhibiting the largest collection of locally turned wood bowls, endless boxes and collectibles of Koa wood treasures. Definitely stop by and visit Hawaiian Scene’s Treasure Hut at the Aloha Center Marketplace to enjoy one of the largest selections of local art and Koa wood keepsakes found on Kauai. 3371 Wilcox Road, Nawiliwili, Lihue, HI., 96766 808.245.6996. E mail hawaiianscene@msn.com.

http://www.kauaimenu.com

Ed: As Aloha Condos, we offer Napili Shores condos for weekly rental… Please do check us out further, and thanks for coming by!

Post originally from: Hawaii condo rentals

The Art of Kauai

When the fiery goddess of volcanoes, Pele, first journeyed from Kahiki (Tahiti) with her family to settle “Great Hawaii…the land of green-backed and mottled seas,” they brought with them all that was required to sustain life.Historically, before the arrival of the first humans sometime around the 3rd century AD, Hawaii, one of the most isolated groups of islands in the world, contained nothing edible on land. Settled by Polynesians who themselves derived from the Indomalayan regions found no indigenous animals, except for the bat…which could not be used for food. Apart from a few birds and ferns, there was absolutely nothing for them to eat. Most importantly there were no edible carbohydrates. The original Hawaiians brought with them 27 or so edible plants, as well as pigs, poultry and dogs; which were bred for food. The most important plants were taro and sweet potato. The terrain and climate proved to be especially suitable for growing wetland taro. Also important were, breadfruit, various yams, sugar cane and coconut.

Post originally from: Hawaii condo rentals

The Cuisines of Hawaii