RECENT MEDIA - CALLEY'S PUBLIC WORK
Art and Soul for the Earth
Big Island of Hawai'i
Aloha in action: The Rama Tree Foundation’s mission to restore the earth
When it comes to restoring ecosystems and rekindling our relationship with the natural world, The Rama Tree Foundation (TRT) is leading the charge. Founded in 2010 by conservation artist Calley O’Neill on Hawai’i Island, TRT blends the power of public art with Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to inspire individuals and communities to reconnect with the land and act on its behalf. With its guiding principle—“Take care of the land, and it will take care of you”—the foundation seeks to awaken a global movement for environmental restoration.
Art as a catalyst for change
At the heart of TRT’s work is art that speaks to the soul and stirs action. O’Neill, selected from over 300 artists, is creating an eight-wall, football-field-length mural for the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. This monumental stained-glass mosaic, to be viewed by three to four million travelers annually, is more than just a visual masterpiece—it’s a cultural and ecological beacon.
The mural, rich in vibrant colors and textures, will portray Hawaiian wisdom carriers, or Kupuna, who embody the essence of Aloha and Mālama ‘Āina (love and care for the land). The anonymous nominator who submitted TRT to the local change makers series reflected on the mural’s deeply rooted messages, writing: “Our Kupuna teach us that the quality of our relationship with nature will determine the nature of our future”. By depicting how the land once flourished and how it can thrive again, TRT inspires viewers to imagine and act toward a world where restoration and abundance go hand in hand.
Guided by Kupuna wisdom
Central to TRT’s mission is its collaboration with Hawaiian Kupuna, who serve as repositories of mo’olelo (stories) and stewards of cultural and environmental knowledge. These elders have guided O’Neill in her creative process, emphasizing the importance of depicting only the beauty and abundance of Hawai’i’s land and its potential.
“Our Kupuna have asked her to depict only the beauty and abundance of how the land was, can be, and must be again,” notes the nominator. This reverence for traditional wisdom and ecological integrity is what sets TRT apart. Through its work, the foundation preserves cultural heritage while fostering a global understanding of sustainability and restoration.
A global vision with local roots
While TRT’s work is deeply rooted in Hawai’i’s ecosystems and traditions, its vision reaches far beyond the islands. The foundation’s initiative, The Restoration: A Million Actions to Restore Earth’s Ecosystems, invites people from all walks of life to participate in the restoration of forests, soil, water, agriculture, energy sources, and oceans.
“There is enough meaningful work for everyone to enjoy a good life,” says the nominator, emphasizing that restoration is both a necessity and an opportunity for unity. Through bold art installations and educational programs, TRT aims to inspire individuals and communities worldwide to take collective action, guided by the wisdom of Indigenous traditions.
Art meets ecology for a better future
O’Neill’s work as a conservation artist is not just about creating beauty—it’s about fostering a deeper connection to nature. “The wisdom of Hawai’i has profoundly transformed her life, and she is convinced that the spirit of Aloha, especially Aloha ‘Āina and Mālama ‘Āina, can save the world,” shares the nominator.
Through public art, storytelling, and collaboration with Indigenous leaders, TRT reminds us of the profound interconnectedness between humanity and the Earth. It’s an approach that doesn’t just address environmental issues but also touches hearts, sparking a collective commitment to healing our planet.
Hope through action
As The Rama Tree Foundation continues its work, it remains a shining example of how art, Indigenous wisdom, and community engagement can create meaningful change. With every mosaic tile and every story told, TRT builds a legacy of restoration and hope—one that invites us all to take part. If you want to learn more about TRT’s work and how you can get involved, visit their website here.
By listening to the wisdom of the land and those who have tended it for generations, TRT offers a vision of a thriving world where people and nature coexist in harmony. As one Kupuna’s teachings remind us, the path forward lies in honoring and caring for the land—because in doing so, it will care for us.
This article was originally published on November 27, 2024
