Utah is known for its large population of Pacific Islanders, representing over a dozen Pacific Islander communities in our state alone. In 2012, Utah’s govenor declared August “Utah Pacific Island Heritage Month.”
To celebrate Pacific Island Heritage Month in August, Craft Lake City is excited to continue our partnership with Pasifika Enriching Arts of Utah (PEAU, a PIK2AR program) to spotlight food vendors, local artisans, and a performer from the Pacific Islander community. Join the celebration on Saturday, August 13th of the 14th Annual Craft Lake City® DIY Festival® Presented By Harmons.
About the Featured Pacific Islander Artisans
Kalani Tonga Designs
Kalani is a hafekasi (biracial Tongan/Swedish) artist and published author. Her artwork is an extension of her “hafekasi weirdness,” in that she takes traditional Polynesian patterns and employs them in unusual ways with non-traditional color palettes.
Tane Designs
Tongan artist Sonatane Falevai creates intricate bone carvings & woodworking pieces with a focus on Polynesian cultural motifs. Tane’s sculptural works are exquisitely precise, and they make beautiful gifts!
Naanz NikNaks
Keilana’s creations began with painted pots filled with colorful flowers and vibrant images of Oceania head pieces. She is expanding to other creative avenues including jewelry and hand painted hats.
About the Featured Pacific Islander Kid Artisans
Shop from these youth entrepreneurs Saturday from 12PM- 4PM on Kid Row Sponsored by Utah Afterschool Network
Cat Poop Jewelry
Kamila, Kalea, and Sofia Tukuafu are sisters who create custom jewelry. They like to make things and are trying to earn money to get braces on their teeth!
Sandy's Ice Cream Sammies
Sandy’s Ice Cream Sammies is a Youth, Woman-owned business that serves delicious, gourmet, custom hand made ice cream sandwiches or “Sammies.” Sandy enjoys serving her delicious Sammies to her customers and is proud to have her best friend and cousin as business partners.
Sew Amazing
Joshua is a youth entrepreneur who enjoys the fruits of his labors. His most recent endeavor is Sew Amazing – Hand-sewn hand warmers and bean bags. He is excited to have an opportunity to share his creations with Salt Lake City.
About the Featured Pacific Islander Food Vendors
The Mockery Drinks
Grab a refreshing hand-crafted, hand-bottled, non-alcoholic Pacific Islander drink made from different island flavors!
Premier Catering
Premier Catering is a full-service catering company and social enterprise of Pacific Island Knowledge 2 Action Resources (PIK2AR) with a Cafe and commissary as well as a Restaurant Incubator Program that assists entrepreneurs in getting started in the Food Service Industry. They serve a variety of hearty meals with a focus on socially responsible food options and practices.
About the Featured Pacific Islander Performers
Halau Ku Pono I Kamalani
This talented performer group perpetuates Hawaiian culture by sharing knowledge of hula, oli, and protocol. DIY Fest attendees can enjoy their performance on the SLUG MAG Main Stage from 1:30 PM – 2 PM on Saturday, August 13th.