The Honolulu Chinatown Bohemian Movement
I was in a Lyft car and had given the driver the address of where I was going and he mentioned that-that's the Chinatown Arts District. I had no idea I was moving to an arts district. I asked him about that and he lit up and was happy to share a story with me. Himself being an avid photographer and fan of Kim Taylor Reese, said that Kim Taylor Reese invited artists from around the world to Honolulu to help improve the neighborhood by painting murals on building walls. Artists local and internationally came to Honolulu to be a part of this art movement. There were no sponsors so each artist had to come on their own ticket, The results of this movement can be seen throughout the neighborhoods of Kaka'ako, downtown Honolulu, and Chinatown. This was surprisingly enlightening to find out and I became eager to join the movement and contribute to the arts district community.
Bohemian: An individual looked upon in society as strange and different. Bohemians care very little for money and some stay secluded by spending their lives creating art, music and literature. Imagination is at the mainstay of a Bohemian's frame of mind. Creativity surpassing the last creative thought is progress. Bohemians are known for being innovative in achieving creativity outside of the box. A literary-artistic gypsy.
Bohemianism is the practice of an unconventional lifestyle, often in the company of like-minded people and with few permanent ties. It involves musical, artistic, literary, or spiritual pursuits.
Where I live - the Chinatown Artists Lofts
Chinatown Artists Lofts Mission Statement:
To Transform our community with the power of the arts, and establish Honolulu's Chinatown as the "Creative Capital of the Pacific."
1901 Mendonca Building
Overlooking a peaceful courtyard of tropical landscaping, the Lofts in the Mendonca Building are renovated and ready to rent. HAPA, in conjunction with Ernest and JoDee Hunt, is pleased to announce the completed restoration of this 109-year old historic building. One of the first buildings built after the infamous Chinatown fires that devastated the downtown community at the turn of the century, the Mendonca Building was voted one of Honolulu Weekly's five favorite buildings, and is a Honolulu treasure.