Kūpala (Sicyos pachycarpus) is a gourd vine endemic (meaning found nowhere else) to the Hawaiian Islands. It grows in dry leeward areas across the islands, including on Kaho‘olawe. This fleshy vine grows exuberantly during the winter rainy Makahiki season and all but disappears during the dry season. It comes and goes with the rain. From a distance it appears to sweep across the dry rocky landscape, tying everything together. Close inspection reveals delicate white flowers, luminous tendrils, and multifaceted seed structures that suggest an ethereal artistry.
This hand drawn print focuses on how sometimes it’s the small things that can make the biggest impact.
-David Shepard