Massive Pele Sculpture Unveiled

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park yesterday unveiled a massive sculpture that pays tribute to the volcano goddess Pele, whose own monumental handiwork is evident in the Big Island's stunning landscapes and the ongoing Kilauea eruption.

"Ulumau Pohaku Pele" (Forever Growing, the Rock of Pele) by Kona artist John "Kalewa" Matsushita is meant to remind visitors that the park is a place of natural and scientific wonders, but also a place that is sacred to Native Hawaiians, according to Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando.

"Through this sculpture we hope to raise the visitors' awareness of the sacredness of our volcanoes and their living deity Pele," Orlando said. "This is a lasting legacy to the power, meaning and values of Hawaiian culture." Full Story

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