Hear from 2025 NACF LIFT Awardee Jesse Kahoonei (Kanaka ‘Ōiwi/Native Hawaiian), a traditional carver and farmer dedicated to passing on the ancestral knowledge of Hawaiʻi to future generations. A descendant of chiefs, priests, and commoners of Kealakekua, Hōnaunau, and the Kona districts, Kahoonei is a member of Hui Kālai Ki‘i o Kūpā‘aike‘e, a collective committed to revitalizing the carving of kiʻi under the guidance of renowned carvers, including Sam Kaha‘i Ka‘ai, Lionel Grant, and Rakei Kingi. Inspired by the works of his kūpuna (ancestors) and the rich mo‘olelo (histories) of the land, Kahoonei brings cultural depth and reverence to his practice. Kahoonei earned a degree in Hawaiian Studies from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa in 2014 with a focus on Mālama ‘Āina (care for the land). He is also the co-founder of Kahalu‘u Kūāhewa, a nonprofit organization revitalizing ancestral agricultural systems and reconnecting kānaka (people) with ʻāina (land). Project: Kahoonei’s 2025 LIFT project, “He-Opaka-Ka-Lani,” focuses on the revival of kālai kiʻi (ancestral image carving), one of the most sacred and intricate Hawaiian art forms. Through the creation of small-scale kiʻi honoring historical figures never before depicted in this medium, Kahoonei reinterprets traditional carving while honoring Hawaiian artistry and spirituality. The project will include community collaboration and the development of educational resources for schools, connecting students with ancestral knowledge and the cultural significance of kālai kiʻi. ++++ Images (2-3): Jesse Kekoa Kahoonei (Kanaka Oiwi/Native Hawaiian), Ketu Koa, 2025. Jesse Kekoa Kahoonei (Kanaka Oiwi/Native Hawaiian), He Ipu Ka Honua, 2021. (fb)

Our hearts are full after an incredible week in Santa Fe celebrating Native artistry, community, and cultural brilliance! At the Santa Fe Indian Market, we witnessed the ingenuity and vibrancy of Native art, from beadwork and fashion to film, performance, and community celebration. We were proud to once again sponsor the Best of Show in Beadwork + Quillwork, honoring the masters of one of the most enduring Native art forms. We also hosted our panel, “Narrative Sovereignty + Cultural Repair,” which welcomed a powerful group of voices and drew a sold-out crowd. Panelists included Candice Hopkins (Carcross/Tagish First Nation), Dr. Shelly Lowe (Navajo Nation), Cara Romero (Chemehuevi), and Daisy Quezada Ureña (Mexican American), with the conversation guided by Andrea R. Hanley (Navajo Nation) and grounded by the words of poet Luci Tapahonso (Diné). Together, they affirmed what we have always known: narrative sovereignty is lived every day, and cultural repair is about creating conditions where new practices can flourish for generations to come. Throughout the weekend, we checked in on awardees at their booths, leaving behind special Santa Fe swag bags and pennants. The limited-edition bags featured a tote, a hat, a postcard, and an iridescent sticker created just for Santa Fe 2025. It was inspiring to connect with so many NACF artists at SWAIA and see their amazing work. We also visited Santa Fe Indian School for a behind-the-scenes look at SHIFT awardee Warren Montoya’s mural project, which will be unveiled during the school’s Feast Day (NM IPD) on October 13. Warren generously shared the meaning of the mural for the school and community, a reminder of the future of Indigenous creativity. We co-hosted the MatriArts luncheon at MoCNA, where Shyla Spicer (Yakama/Seneca Cayuga), NACF President + CEO, and Patsy Phillips (Cherokee Nation), MoCNA Director, welcomed powerful women from across the Indigenous arts and cultural landscape. And we were honored to support Forge Project’s Great Burrito Giveaway, fueling the artists who make Santa Fe a vibrant cultural hub. Panel sponsored by the Native American Advised Fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation. (fb)