“This sticker design is a way to spread awareness about the fight to restore streamflow in Nā Wai ʻEhā or “The Four Great Waters” of Central Maui (Waikapū, Wailuku, Waiehu, and Waiheʻe). In the form of a sticker, this piece is entitled “Ola I Ka Wai – Water is Life” and addresses an important ongoing issue on Maui. Currently, private companies are diverting the Maui streams dry for their own profit. The ancient Hawaiians arranged their lives around the flow of water, which needs to flow from mauka (mountain) to makai (sea). Water in Hawaiʻi is a public trust; it needs to be protected for the benefit of its people. A sticker is simple, and yet it is powerful. It becomes the visual symbol that the public can associate with the issue. 

This sticker, shaped like the island of Maui, represents that although the streams are located in central Maui, the diversion of water negatively affects the entire island. Diverted streams have had destructive environmental and cultural impacts on Maui. The four streams are emphasized in the sticker to show that they are the primary source of water. Various newspaper articles fill the background to show the viewer the ongoing battle. The earliest article dates back to 1866, which is written completely in Hawaiian. The newspapers symbolize a reminder for others to be active and aware of the issues in their community. With this sticker,  it will increase the consciousness of others in my community.”