​By Ms. Ro Jane Prideaux, PHIS Fine Arts Teacher
 
Kai'ili Kaulukukui, professional muralist and a PHIS alum, is working with students to create the first public mural at our school located on the side of H-building that faces the main street.  The mural features a prominent  ʻōhiʻa lehua tree as well as other important indigenous plants and animals such as the Nene bird and 'Io (Hawaiian hawk), and other specific imagery from Puna. The intention behind the mural and the process to create it was to honor and amplify youth voices, spreading the message of aloha, resilience, care, and pride in our ahupua'a and kokua for our community, after the Kilauea eruptions and earthquakes last year. The project is part of Councilwoman Ashley Kierkowitz's initiative "Activate Puna" in partnership with local non-profit "Temple Children," and will be celebrated with a FREE public event on Saturday, May 11 from 2-10pm in Pahoa town. The event, which will include music, food, and art vendors, will feature hope flags decorated by students from all over Puna. See the beautiful new artwork in town and help us Activate Puna!