Cherishing the ‘Āina: Honoring Nate Yuen’s Legacy Through Art and Conservation

by Kirsten Kagimoto, Chapter Deputy Director | Reading time: 2.5 minutes

In honor of Nate Yuen—a beloved environmental justice activist, photographer, and dedicated steward of Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty—the Kahaluʻu Gallery and Gardens will be presenting Pūlama ‘Āina, an art exhibit that celebrates Nate’s life and his contributions to the conservation of Hawaiʻi’s natural environment. This special event will take place on September 21-22 and September 28-29, providing a unique opportunity to appreciate Nate’s artistic work and the legacy he leaves behind.

Pūlama ‘āina, meaning “to cherish the land,” encapsulates the spirit of Nate’s work and life. For Nate, cherishing the ‘āina was not just an expression of love for the land; it was a deep-seated belief that caring for Hawaiʻi’s environment was a sacred duty. Nate dedicated his free time to exploring Hawaiʻi’s trails, capturing the beauty of its landscapes, and sharing his passion for conservation with the world. His photography, which will be featured prominently in this exhibit, reflects his profound connection to the natural world and his commitment to protecting it.

During the event, visitors will have the chance to experience Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty through Nate’s eyes. The exhibit will feature metal prints of his most recent work from the past three years, showcasing sweeping panoramas, intimate close-ups of endemic plants and animals, and other awe-inspiring moments he captured on his many hikes. In addition to these stunning metal prints, the gallery will also offer cards and matted photography prints from Nate’s earlier inventory, giving attendees a wide range of options to take home a piece of his legacy. Proceeds of sales will benefit the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Trail and Mountain Club, and the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance.

Nate was more than just a talented photographer; he was the embodiment of aloha spirit, inclusivity, and mālama ‘āina. Though he worked as an accountant by profession, his heart was always with the land. Whether it was volunteering with environmental and social justice organizations, advocating for Native Hawaiian rights, or simply spending time in nature, Nate’s life was a reflection of his belief in the sacred bond between people and ʻāina.

His sudden passing in 2022 left a void in the community, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the beautiful images he captured. Pūlama ‘Āina is more than just an art exhibit—it is a celebration of Nate’s life, his love for Hawaiʻi, and his unwavering commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations.

We invite you to join Nate’s family, friends, and fellow activists at Kahaluʻu Gallery and Gardens for this heartfelt event. Together, we can honor Nate’s memory, support the causes he held dear, and reaffirm our own commitment to cherishing and protecting the ‘āina that sustains us all. 

Event Details:
Dates: September 21-22 and September 28-29, 10am-4pm
Location: Kahaluʻu Gallery and Gardens, 47-754 Lamaula Rd, Kāneʻohe

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of a true champion for Hawaiʻi’s environment. Nate Yuen’s artwork will not only inspire you with its beauty but also serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the precious natural resources of these islands.

Let’s come together to pūlama ‘āina and continue the work that Nate so passionately believed in.