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Features

HI2059

The future of Honolulu’s design is up for grabs. A collective of Honolulu creatives think 50 years into the future, and show us what they see.

It’s a city with a population of over eight million people. It’s home to Broadway, to the Museum of Modern Art, to Carnegie Hall. It’s given birth to hip-hop, to abstract expressionism, to the beat generation. It’s the home of Jim Jarmusch, of Thomas Pynchon, of Jay-Z. Its landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, are emblematic of its endless opportunities.

Handcrafted Artisan

Misa Hamamoto has created a niche reputation with her unique artistic qualities. “I definitely consider my jewelry pieces as ‘wearable art.’ In fact, I also call them sculptural jewelry. I think that’s why I’ve developed such a following because my clients feel like they’re collecting pieces of art when purchasing my jewelry.”

The film screen at Waikiki shell *Jared Yamanuha*

From the Ground Up

“By the People: The Election of Barack Obama” is a steadied, chronological account of Obama’s campaign for the White House, one which pairs behind-the-scenes footage of Obama and his team with news media clips from the early days up until his ascendance to the Presidency.

Still from 'Layover' *Photo courtesy of Chris Yogi*

Through the Looking Glass

To make a movie about Hawaii — one that’s entertaining and realistic to both locals and the rest of the world — is a difficult, if not impossible, task. Hawaii is so complex, so diverse a place that it’s unthinkable that any film, really, could capture its essence.

Yoza

Yoza’s passion for the lyrical world began at age five, when she taught herself how to play her brother’s ukulele. Within a few years, she was a member of famed ukulele artist Roy Sakuma’s Super Keiki, a group of children uke players. At 12, Yoza conquered the saxophone. Later, a full scholarship to Hawaii Pacific University.

GRN Apple Tree

Every spare space is filled with artifacts meant to inspire, from snowboard gear and boxy leather lounge chairs designed by Luis, to arcade-style video games and an impressive 300 piece toy collection — think ICEE polar bears and blue Smurfs.

The Face of FLUX

FLUX Hawaii Magazine asked 5 local artists to answer the question, “Where is Hawaii transitioning to?” Their responses came graphically using a variety of different mediums, including paint, digital, photography, prints and even toilet paper. Now we ask YOU to VOTE, and help us decide the COVER for our premiere issue, hitting January 2010.

Jennifer Yoko Thorbjornsen

‘I am a normal person,’ she insists. ‘I like to hike and hang out with my dog,’ but Jennifer is not your typical 25-year old.

Taking in the sunset on Arugam Bay's newly constructed bridge.

Sri Lanka, A Country in Transition

Our bus ride began in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. I am slightly on edge, especially since Colombo is often the site of terrorist bombings. I keep an eye out for Tamil Tigers, guerilla soldiers listed by the EU and the US as a terrorist organization, but I am told that if I see one, I won’t live to tell about it.

FLUX Hawaii