Local artist brightens walls at Līhuʻe Public Library with community mural and a tribute

Local artist Holly Ka’iakapu is creating a striking mural at the Līhu’e Public Library that will honor Kauai’s deep-rooted traditions and memorialize Eric Larson, a part of the Hawaiʻi Public Library System on the Garden Isle for 14 years.

Larson, who also was well known throughout all the libraries on the island, retired in February and sadly passed away in June at age 63.

“He was such a jewel,” said Kristen Hillman, regional branch manager at Līhu’e Library. “All of us loved him. The community loved him. He always had a smile on his face.”

Part of Larson’s legacy was helping to conduct a community survey in 2022 to assess the needs of the Līhu’e library, the largest on Kaua’i and designed by architect Stephen Oyakawa.

Ka’iakapu is painting Larson, who also was an accomplished ukulele player, playing the musical instrument under a mango tree as his forever tribute at the library.

Hillman, originally from Mississippi, was excited to share an approved mockup of the mural and is excited the mural is in the works.

“I love Kauai,” she said. “Ever since I saw Jurassic Park, I have been so happy HSPLS (Hawaiʻi State Public Library System) took a chance on me because this is a beautiful community, and it’s such a great place to be a librarian.”

Ka’iakapu collaborated with the Hawaii State Public Library System and Larson before he died to develop ideas for the mural, which will be a visual reminder of the island’s unity and aloha spirit.

The approved mock-up showcases the Kaua’i community by depicting community members of all ages reading books, using their library cards and listening to stories. The mural also will have a plumeria tree and feature beautiful everyday activities that symbolize the Garden Isle.

“We are so happy to see it going up,” Hillman said. “My favorite part is the mango tree and, of course, the rainbow with aloha.”

Ka’iakapu, a well-known member of the Rice Street Business Association, has participated in various murals painted around Kaua’i. Her work can be admired at Salt Pond’s in Hanapēpē, where a visual representation of ‘Waimaka o Hiʻiaka’, the moʻolelo, is displayed.

Her vibrant collaboration also is visible at the Līhu’e Civic Center and on the YWCA wall.

The library and the association hope the mural “will draw positive attention to the library,” so that “we can receive more support,” Hillman said.

The library, located at 4344 Hardy St. in Līhuʻe, updated its monthly community calendar.

“Anyone interested in wanting to grab a calendar and do a one-stop shop can come by at the library and check out the mural,” Hillman said.