It may seem as though the legacy of paniolo (cowboys) in Waimea is a lost or fading tradition- a vestige of a time now past. Many things have changed regarding life in Waimea over the years, but the legacy set forth by our ancestors and forebears continues to shape this extraordinary place. Legacies: Paniolo of Waimea celebrates the landscape of Waimea, the stewards who have shaped and cared for the ʻāina, and the animals who have adapted to this rugged and beautiful terrain. Through saddlery and quilts as well as paintings and photography, we honor the foundation upon which our community was built, while looking to assure that the paniolo heritage of Waimea thrives long into the future.

Legacies: Paniolo of Waimea will feature the artwork and artistry of Anuenue Quilters of North Hawaiʻi, William Case, Patrick Ching, Taira Cran, Donnie DeSilva, Nancy Erger, Kapulei Flores, Val Hanohano, Edwin Kayton, Eva Kealamakia, Moses Kealamakia Jr., Boots Lupenui, Arwen Potochney, Marcia Ray, Margo Ray, Dominic Tidmarsh, Benny Webster, and others. Kahilu is thankful for the involvement of so many in our community that have made this exhibition possible, especially Paniolo Preservation Society and Dr. Billy Bergin. Photographs of the past 100 years will be on display as well as traditional paniolo craftsmanship alongside modern adaptations and items inspired by Waimea’s rich paniolo heritage and landscape.