On Monday, the City and County of Honolulu unveiled an art installation designed by local artist Cory Kamehanaokāla Holt Taum, the first-ever art installation on TheBus as part of the “Wahi Pana: Storied Places” public art initiative.

What You Need To Know

  • The wrap is inspired by the epic quest of Hiʻiakakapoliopele, visually connecting residents and visitors to the history and spirit of the islands while offering an accessible cultural experience to all who see it

  • “TheBus is more than just transportation; it is a shared space where people from all walks of life come together,” said Jon Nouchi, deputy director of the Department of Transportation Services

  • A total of three buses will feature Taum’s design and will remain in service throughout the project’s three-year duration

The wrap is inspired by the epic quest of Hiʻiakakapoliopele, visually connecting residents and visitors to the history and spirit of the islands while offering an accessible cultural experience to all who see it.

The quest of Hiʻiakakapoliopele tells of Pele’s younger sister, Hiʻiaka and her companions, as they journey to find Pele’s beloved Lohiʻauipo to bring him home to Kilauea.

“The unveiling of this bus is a powerful moment for our community,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi in a release. “This is the first time TheBus has been transformed into a moving piece of history, bringing storytelling to the streets and making art more accessible to all. We hope this also encourages more people to ride public transportation and experience the beauty of ‘Wahi Pana’ firsthand.”

The Department of Transportation Services selected the 200-series, 40-foot Gillig bus for the installation since it’s the one used on most routes and neighborhoods on the island, making the artwork widely accessible.

“TheBus is more than just transportation; it is a shared space where people from all walks of life come together,” said Jon Nouchi, deputy director of the Department of Transportation Services. “By wrapping our 200-series bus with ‘Wahi Pana’ art, we are turning our transit system into a moving gallery, bringing cultural storytelling to the streets and neighborhoods across Oahu.”

A total of three buses will feature Taum’s design and will remain in service throughout the project’s three-year duration.

“This project exemplifies how public art can connect people to the stories and landscapes that define our identity,” said Kaʻili Trask O’Connell, executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts. “’Wahi Pana’ ensures these stories remain visible and celebrated in everyday life, and we look forward to highlighting the work of even more local artists and storytellers as we continue to unveil our first phase of ‘Wahi Pana.’”