Article: Discovering the Spirit of Moana Through Our Hawaiian Jewelry
Discovering the Spirit of Moana Through Our Hawaiian Jewelry
Discover the Spirit of Moana in Our Hawaiian Jewelry
With Moana 2 on the horizon, the ocean calls again, and at Leighton Lam, we’ve captured that same adventurous spirit in our Moana jewelry. Originally designed for Aulani, a Disney Resort in Hawaii, this piece is both a tribute to Hawaiian culture and the values that inspire our Hawaiian family business.
The film’s themes of identity, community, and respect for nature deeply resonate with us. Like Moana’s journey to reconnect with her ancestors, we honor our roots and embrace the heritage passed down through generations.
Wayfinding and Voyaging
One of the central themes in Moana is wayfinding—the ancient Polynesian art of navigation that guided voyagers across vast oceans.
Our founder, Leighton, incorporated this theme into his work when he created The Gift of Ka‘aumoana—a compass for the children at Punahou School. This piece, located at the heart of the campus, serves as a reminder of the significance of exploration and discovery in Hawaiian culture. As Leighton described it, it’s “a magical place where children play, sing, enjoy the outdoors, discover Hawaiian culture, and learn to love and care for their Island home. It’s where they hear Hawaiian stories and imagine our Islands’ voyagers navigating across vast oceans.”
Drawing inspiration from the rich tradition of voyaging, our Moana jewelry captures the spirit of adventure and deep connection to the sea. The design reflects the courage of ancient navigators who journeyed across the Pacific, just as Moana honors her ancestors. Rooted in the same sense of rediscovery and legacy, our designs aim to reflect Hawaiian heritage, carrying forward the spirit of the islands in every piece.