University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹ faculty and staff worked with students at Enchanted Lake Elementary School to turn a blank wall into a colorful mural that celebrates the natural beauty, history and sense of place of Kailua.
The project was a collaboration among UH ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹ team members: Sheanae Tam and Niki Fisiiahi-Thomayer, students participating in the elementary school¡¯s 2026 Summer Enrichment Program, and Beau Uehara from ALU LIKE
“This was such an awesome experience,” said Enchanted Lake Elementary Principal Noel Richardson. “For a while, it appeared that we would not be able to get the mural started, but the right people have a way of making things happen. We shifted the plan over to our summer enrichment program and it all came together! I truly appreciate the support provided to see this through.”
‘What do you envision?’
The process began with a classroom visit to incoming fifth- and sixth-grade students. Through icebreakers, a guided meditation and ³¾´Çʻ¨±ô±ð±ô´Ç (stories) of Kailua, students reflected on the places and elements that make their community special. They were then asked to sketch their ideas in response to the question: “When you think of Kailua or Enchanted Lake Elementary, what do you envision?”
Students¡¯ drawings featured rainbows, native plants, birds, beaches and ocean life. Using these ideas as inspiration, Tam, the lead artist, created a mural design rooted in the natural and cultural features of Kailua.
Over several weeks, students in grades one through six painted the mural in small groups, ensuring every child had the opportunity to contribute.
During ³ó¨ʻ¾±°ì±ð, or celebration of the completed artwork, students shared that participating in the project made them feel proud, happy and connected to their school community.
The UH ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹ Ulu Aʻe Transitions team and school opened the final day with a pilina circle, creating a space for connection and reflection before the ³ó¨ʻ¾±°ì±ð celebration.
While completed over a short summer session, the mural leaves a lasting impact—reflecting the creativity of Enchanted Lake students and their deep connection to the place they call home.