Meet the artist behind Ala Moana Aloha sign’s wave-inspired refresh

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A popular photo background at Ala Moana Center has a new look thanks to Native Hawaiian artist Aaron Kai.

On Friday, Kai painted a mural titled “Nalu ma Le’ahi” (Waves at Diamond Head) on the 28-foot-wide Aloha installation, located on the center’s third floor.

Born on Hawaiʻi Island, Kai draws inspiration from the Hilo Hāmākua surf culture to infuse his work with vivid colors, bold lines and a signature wave motif.

Guests can view the finished mural, meet Kai and take photos on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 a.m. to noon. The first 100 guests will also receive a complimentary tote bag.

Kai will then appear at HIC, Street Level, Ewa Wing, to celebrate the launch of his HIC x Aaron Kai collection from 2 to 4 p.m.

Previous collaborations include adidas, Heineken, Samsung, Taco Bell and the Los Angeles Rams.