Naupaka and Kaui by Scott Gorrell

Naupaka and Kaui, original framed paper sculpture by Scott Gorrell

There are several versions of Hawaiian legends explaining this “half flower”, one variety growing in the mountains, the other on the seashore.

Here is one version: The beautiful princess Naupaka met the handsome fisherman Kaui and they fell in love. Soon after, the fire goddess Pele met Kaui and decided she wanted him for herself. She became enraged when he told her he was already in love with Naupaka. Pele chased the lovers with fire and lava.

Naupaka took the flower from her hair and tore it in two, giving one half to Kaui and keeping the other half for herself. Then Naupaka fled to the mountains while Kaui fled to the seashore. The other Hawaiian goddesses took pity on the lovers and turned them each into half of the flower so they would remain as one although physically apart.

Dimensions framed: 16″ x 13″