Kipahulu by Dietrich Varez
Artist: Dietrich Varez (1939–2018)
Title: Kipahulu
Medium: Woodblock Print on Paper
Dimensions: 24×18 inches (Approx.)
Framed: Yes, red frame included
This iconic print vividly captures the dramatic waterfalls and sacred pools of Kīpahulu, Maui. Executed in Varez's signature bold, graphic style, the work is more than a landscape, it is a powerful cultural narrative illustrating the Hawaiian legend of ʻUwa, Wawa, and ʻAlalā. The image features a Native Hawaiian figure engaging with the falls, imbuing the piece with deep historical and mythological significance.
With sweeping ocean views and waterfalls, Kipahulu is a sustainable farm community in the Hana district of Maui, Hawaiʻi. The area has been inhabited by native people for hundreds of years and remains an integral part of a thriving culture.
Legend of Uwa, Wawa, and Alala
(As related to Bernard Akana by his grandfather, Pooni):
Two lovers were hiking above ʻOheʻo in Kīpahulu when they came upon an ideal spot and decided to take a nap. Upon waking, the boy discovered his lover missing and called out loud, but received no answer. He then proceeded upstream to the first waterfall and again called for his lover. This time his call was answered by an echo. Proceeding up further, he came to a third waterfall. Upon calling out, he heard a loud burst of laughter from up on high. It was a laughing, teasing voice which seemed to say—"You will never find me"—for it was his lover who had been turned into a laughing waterfall. Thus the first waterfall became known as ʻUwa, meaning to shout or call out loud. The second waterfall became known as Wawa (or Wāwā), meaning echo, and the third waterfall became ʻAlalā, a loud burst of laughter or cry.
About the artisit
Dietrich Varez was born in Berlin, Germany in 1939. After World War II, he was adopted by an American soldier and brought to Hawaii. Mr. Varez is a printmaker and has had no formal art training. His popular prints dealing with Hawaiian culture and mythology themes are known throughout Hawaii. Mr. Varez lives in a secluded rainforest near Volcano on the island of Hawaii.
About These Prints
Each print begins as a drawing. From the drawing, a linoleum block print is made. The block print is then made into a serigraph or silk screen. Everything is handmade by the artist. No assistance or machinery is used. Each print is hand printed by the artist in his own home. The print is then titled, signed and dated with the year it was pulled. Because each print is individually hand-made, no two prints will be exactly alike.