M. Scott Hamilton
Sculptor ⋅ Designer
Dev-Ocean
Materials . . .
Maple Wood / Deer & Cow hide / Assorted shells and wooden beads/Small brass nails
Dimensions . . .
Height: 6 ft. Width: 7 1/2 in.
The myth and detail for Dev-Ocean . . .
Once upon a time there were two young boys . . . Kupa’a (koo’ pah ah) and Niele (nee’ yeh leh) . . . who were the dearest of friends, and they played in the warm ocean waters of the Polynesian Islands. As they swam out one day to explore the reef they noticed a dark figure gliding beneath them. This being their first encounter with Hāhālua (The Manta Ray), they were naturally startled, yet they were not afraid because both had been taught to respect this gentle giant of the sea. Niele, being true to his name, immediately swam down to get a closer look at the Great Manta Ray . . . but in his rush he failed to see a second Hāhālua following close behind and swam directly into its path.
Realizing the danger his friend was in Kupa’a dove below Niele to grab the bottom of his feet. Kupa’a then kicked hard for the surface pushing both boys practically out of the water. As they cleared the surface Niele began to sputter and swear at Kupa’a for spoiling his fun . . . that is until . . . he saw a second dark shadow glide by beneath them. Niele quickly stopped his sputtering because he knew then Kupa’a was also being true to his name and risked himself to save his friend.
Niele (nee’ yeh leh) . . . meaning Curious Kupa’a (koo’ pah ah) . . . meaning Loyal