Description:

This set of collectible phone cards beautifully captures the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and history, vividly brought to life through the artistic vision of Herb Kane. Each card is a limited edition, pre-paid debit calling card valued at 20 units, highlighting their dual role as functional items and collectible works of art. The artwork across all four cards is rooted in traditional Hawaiian themes, ranging from legendary figures and cultural customs to dramatic natural phenomena and historic moments. Soft yet vibrant colors dominate each piece, enhancing the storytelling while paying homage to the spirit of old Hawai'i.

The first card, titled "Pa'u Riders of Old Hawai'i," depicts two women galloping on horseback against a sunset backdrop. The riders wear flowing traditional attire, including long, richly colored cloaks and lei headpieces, capturing the grace and strength of Hawaiian pa'u riders—renowned for their equestrian skills and cultural significance in Hawaiian ceremonies. The dynamic composition and warm hues evoke a sense of motion and a deep connection between the riders and their environment. The horses, adorned with leis, reinforce the tradition and celebratory nature of the scene.

The second card, "The Discovery of Hawai'i," portrays a dramatic ocean scene featuring a double-hulled sailing canoe navigating choppy waters beneath a darkening sky. The looming volcanic cliffs in the background and the glowing lava flow spilling into the sea evoke the raw, untamed beauty and power of the Hawaiian islands at their discovery. This artwork masterfully balances tension and awe, with the canoe’s crew silhouetted against the vast ocean—symbolizing the early Polynesian voyagers who braved the sea to settle in Hawai'i. The dark blues and fiery oranges capture the mysterious and formidable origins of the islands.

The third card centers on "Pele," the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes, depicted with intense, fiery features merging with a glowing magma flow cascading down a volcano. Her solemn yet powerful visage embodies the primal, creative forces of nature that define Hawai'i’s volcanic activity. The use of deep reds and oranges evokes molten lava, conveying energy and reverence. This piece pays tribute to Pele’s spiritual and mythological significance, symbolizing both destruction and rebirth within Hawaiian culture.

The fourth card, titled "Lei Sellers," offers a more tranquil, intimate scene featuring an elder Hawaiian woman and a young girl stringing white flower leis. They are surrounded by a vibrant array of colorful leis hanging behind them, emphasizing the cultural craft and the importance of leis in Hawaiian celebrations and daily life. The warm, gentle expressions of the figures and the intricate detail of the leis evoke a sense of tradition lovingly passed down through generations. This artwork highlights the artistry of lei making and its role in expressing aloha and island identity.

Together, these cards form a cohesive and evocative tribute to Hawai'i, blending history, mythology, and culture with the compelling artistry of Herb Kane. The set provides a vivid, immersive glimpse into Hawai'i’s identity, seen through the perspectives of tradition bearers and legendary forces alike.

Since we have the world's largest inventory of USA phonecards for collectors, you will not necessarily receive the identical serial/batch/PIN number that we have scanned/pictured.