Oahu, Hawaii Wyland Whaling Wall 9

History of the Oahu, Hawaii Wyland Whaling Wall 9

-First Voyage

“First Voyage”; which depicts the Polynesians; discovery of the Hawaiian Islands, wasthe first time Wyland incorporated humans into one of his Whaling Walls. The double- hulled canoes bearing the sturdy voyagers are escorted into the island by spirited dolphins who, perhaps, had never before seen humans and their sailing vessels. “I had to do extensive research to make sure these canoes were accurate” Wyland explains. “I also had to be very accurate about the clothing that ancient Polynesians wore at the time. I really enjoy this aspect of my art, studying the subjects and trying to be as authentic as I can.”

Did you know?

• The 1980s brought renewed interest in Hawaii cultural and environmental
  awareness. Polynesian navigators were among the iconic aspects of this
  renaissance, who were noted for their courage and dependence on the sea,
  using the stars, winds, and currents in their explorations.
• First Voyage was painted during a period of concern in Hawaii over the
  degradation of coral reefs resulting from increased coastal development and
  urban runoff.
• Polynesian navigators used skills honed over countless generations to explore and
  discover the islands of Polynesia. Heavily reliant on nature for sustenance, their
  example of living in harmony with the land and the sea played an important role
  in the message of the Wyland mural.
• In its efforts to bring people together for clean water and healthy oceans, the
  Wyland Foundation has created numerous environmental educational activities
  and lessons for teachers, many of which focus on cultural practices that have
  shaped current policies to protect our ocean and waterways.

Whaling wall 9

Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu, Hawaii
130 Feet Long
Dedicated February 4, 1986
By John Hillerman, Actor

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