Healoha Kamanu | Leo Kupa Season 2, Episode 3

Healoha Kamanu is not only a gifted Polynesian tattoo artist, but also a cultural custodian, utilizing the ancient art of tatau (tattooing) to tell stories, honor heritage, and mark significant life journeys for the Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities in Las Vegas. Their work goes beyond aesthetics, serving as a powerful medium for cultural expression and a reminder of identity in the diaspora, making them a profound voice for understanding how traditions are etched into modern lives. In this conversation, Mailani and Healoha reflect on Healoha’s beginnings in freehand art and her journey to Las Vegas. They discuss her path into mentorship and her vision for uplifting cultural arts through her studio, while continuing to seek ʻike (knowledge) by traveling throughout Polynesia. This Leo Kupa Podcast Series explores the vibrant heartbeat of Hawaiian culture thriving in Las Vegas — the place Hawaiians lovingly call the Ninth Island. Through intimate conversations with practitioners, elders, and community builders, we journey into what it means to carry the sacred traditions of Hawaiʻi across the ocean and into the desert, keeping them alive with reverence, resilience, and aloha. Follow us on Instagram: Hui Mauli Ola Leo Kupa Podcast Visit our website: huimauliola.org  Our Guest, Healoha Kamanu:  @Healoha Kamanu Support us with a donation Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeoKupa_Podcast  Mahalo to the sponsors of this episode: Da Hale Bar and Grill Waiakea Water  This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, grant number MN-252929-OMS-23. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. This project received support from Papa Ola Lōkahi through the Makamaka Ola program. We gratefully acknowledge their generous funding, which helps us continue uplifting Native Hawaiian voices and traditional healing practices through the Leo Kupa Las Vegas series.