Philistia Reyes
Aloha Pumehana! I’m Philistia Reyes, and I’m thrilled to share my journey into the enchanting world of resin art with you all. It all started when I attended a craft fair one day, not expecting it to change my life forever. Little did I know that stumbling upon a talented resin maker’s booth would ignite a passion in me that I never knew existed.
Crafting has always been a part of who I am, thanks to my mother Gail Reyes, and sisters Phyllis and Mela, who nurtured my love for creating things from a young age. So, when I encountered those mesmerizing resin pieces, it was like the missing piece of the puzzle fell into place. I couldn’t resist diving headfirst into exploring this incredible medium.
What makes resin art truly special to me is its ability to let me perpetuate the beauty of my Hawaiian culture through my creations. Growing up in Hawaiʻi, hula has been an integral part of my life since I was a little kid. I firmly believe that it leaves an indelible mark on your soul.
Among the many crafts that I cherish, wiliwili lei-making holds a special place in my heart. Although I don’t practice it as much now, the memories of those days bring a smile to my face. Crafting those lei was a labor of love. Each step required precision and care – drilling holes into the seeds, meticulously selecting colors and weaving patterns to create unique designs. I loved using high-quality waxed string and adding those elegant kukui nuts as a finishing touch, making each lei truly exceptional.
Like any creative journey, I faced challenges, especially when resources were limited. But giving up was never an option for me. I embraced resourcefulness, finding ingenious solutions to keep my passion alive and preserve my Hawaiian heritage through my craft.
In a rapidly changing world, holding onto traditions becomes more crucial than ever. Through my resin art, I strive to weave a beautiful tapestry of my Hawaiian roots, ensuring that our cultural heritage continues to shine bright for generations to come. It brings me immense joy to share my art with the world, and I can’t wait to see what new creations the future holds. So here’s to embracing my passion, perpetuating my culture, and making resin art that speaks from the naÊ»au. Mahalo!