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- calendar_today November 7, 2026
Kona Airport Wall Transformed by Mosaic Art
A major cultural art initiative is underway at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, where artists and volunteers are working together to create a 321-foot mosaic mural. The project, commissioned by the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts in 2019, aims to turn a long blank airport wall into a vibrant, meaningful work that both greets visitors and bids farewell to departing travelers.
Calley O’Neill Leads Collaborative Project
The mural is designed and led by Waimea-based artist Calley O’Neill, who was selected out of more than 300 applicants. Work on the mural began following her unanimous selection and, according to plans, the project is expected to be completed by 2030. O’Neill’s approach has emphasized collaboration with local kupuna—respected Hawaiian elders—and extensive community involvement, with many volunteers assisting in the labor-intensive process.
A Tribute to Hawaiian Wisdom and Malama Aina
Central to the mural’s narrative is the Hawaiian value of malama aina—to care for the land. O’Neill describes the mural as rooted in aloha and as a call to action for environmental stewardship. “The heart of aloha is aloha aina, love of this land,” O’Neill explained. The mural visually and thematically encourages viewers to activate this love through stewardship and connection to nature.
Design and Thematic Elements
The work incorporates intricate stained-glass mosaic pieces set against a mineral-paint background. Eight 40-foot panels cover a range of themes such as aloha, the ocean, forest, water, voyagers, horticulture and aquaculture, and indigenous culture. The progression culminates with a panel called “Aloha for Future Generations.” A continuous blue line—symbolizing water—runs through each panel, connecting the entire work and reflecting the guidance of local elders that the mural should represent a circle or cycle, rather than a linear narrative.
Kupuna Wisdom at the Heart of the Mural
O’Neill worked closely with local kupuna including Keala Ching and Hanna Kihalani Springer, who are featured in the mural. Insights from elders played a key role in shaping the mural’s message. One consulted kupuna, Earl Regidor, advised, “Show them what was, what can be, and what must be again.” The panels are intended to tell this story, prompting viewers to reflect on their own roles in conservation.
Tech-Enhanced and Accessible Art
To further engage visitors, the finished installation will include brass plaques and QR codes for interpretive information. Plans are underway for immersive features, such as an audio and light component that may highlight recorded stories and chants from the kupuna. The site, with nearly 4 million travelers passing by each year, offers substantial exposure for this conservation-centered message.
Funding and Community Support
The envisioned budget for the mural, including lighting and technology, is approximately $2 million. Funding sources include the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, the Healey Foundation, and the Atherton Family Foundation. Despite extensive volunteer support, rising material and shipping costs have presented financial challenges. To date, nearly $1 million has been raised, but O’Neill notes that an estimated $1.5 million more will be needed to fully realize the creative vision over the next four years.
Art’s Role in Community and Conservation
O’Neill stresses the importance of art that moves people toward a deeper relationship with the land. She sees the project as an opportunity not only to educate but to inspire action and connection. “Community-based art, or indigenous art, or public art, with heart and meaning—it’s essential for our humanity,” she said.
More information on the mural and ways to get involved can be found at calleyoneill.com/KonaAirportMural.html.
Source: westhawaiitoday.com.
