Spotlight: Kaplan Bunce, KRNT Studio

“The Future is Indigenous”

Kaplan is self-described as a father of three daughters, surfer, artist, carpenter and lover. He is a Native American artist who first began experimenting with visual representations of his prayers and ideas about sacredness and positivity saving scrap wood to create native figures and picture frames. His work has evolved into various other mediums such as murals, but his themes continue to revolve around prayer and living life in a good way.

In his artist manifesto Kaplan says "Indigenous cultures created waste systems, irrigation systems, road systems, trade systems that were sophisticated and thrived before colonization wiped out 90% of our population in just 100 years. This knowledge is engrained in the genetic memory of every living native person. We retain and have access to knowledge that only comes from living with the land for thousands of years. The future is indigenous, it has always been."

KRNT Studios, located at Common Ground, is Kaplan's way of leaning into the indigenous value of “Do your best for the next generations.” The goal is to create magnification and uplift for voices in art oftentimes unheard. To create a space for indigenous practitioners whose work is rooted in culture. The various cultures that have found a home here in Hawaii all have their own art practices—it is a universal human language. Visual art consistently succeeds in breaking down boundaries and connecting humans.”

Talk story with Kaplan during your visit at ICWF or join an art session focused on the contemporary art movement rooted in street art, graffiti and art with culture roots and values.