ʻUlu

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Artist Notes:

Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi June 18, 2024

The original artwork was inspired by ‘Ulu (Artocarpus altilis) which is the tree and fruit of what is commonly known as Breadfruit.

The composition of this artwork could be considered and envolution of the design for the ‘Ulu painting I completed in 2003.

The design includes patterns that are abstract and symbolic.

The symmetry of the composition was also chosen with respect to designs of Hawaiʻian Quilt patterns and Siapo Sāmoa (Sāmoan Tapa).

Although composition is similiar to those styles mentioned, the vast amount of leaves, may also be interpreted as a top view of the ‘ulu tree.

Although the green colors are dark, they reference the color of leaves seen on an ʻUlu tree.

Although the yellow is saturated, it references the color of the fruit from the ʻUlu tree.

- Jon Apisa

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Artocarpus altilis is:

• ʻUlu in Sāmoa
• ʻUlu in Hawaiʻi
• ʻUru in Tahiti
• Kuru in Maori language (Aotearoa)
• Mei in Tonga

Artocarpus altilis is also known as:

• Breadfruit

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48" x 48" (121.9 cm x 121.9 cm)

06/17/2024

Polynesian