Pictured left to right: Akaka, Potter and Abercrombie Photo credit: Jon Yoshimura, Office of Sen. Akaka
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) and Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) were treated to a special preview of Hawaii's 50th Anniversary Statehood stamp today, from U.S. Postmaster General John Potter. The stamp, designed by renowned Hawaii artist and historian Herb Kawainui Kane, will be issued in summer 2009.
Akaka said: "Kane's beautiful portrait of Hawaiian life will inspire Americans across the country as this stamp is sent around. Celebrating our statehood in 1959, the symbolism is powerful, portraying a people set on course for a prosperous life in the new state of Hawaii."
Abercrombie said: "Herb Kawainui Kane has done a masterful job of expressing the beauty and energy in Hawaii's special relationship with the sea. I am happy to join Senator Akaka in unveiling this image, which celebrates a half century of Hawaii statehood."
Hawaii's 50th Anniversary Statehood stamp will be officially announced next month, when the Postal Service unveils its stamps for 2009.
Artist Kane was honored as a Living Treasure of Hawaii in 1984 and is the recipient of numerous awards for his artistic and cultural contributions to the people of Hawaii. Born in 1928, Kane was raised in Waipio Valley and Hilo as well as Wisconsin. He now lives in rural south Kona.
Herb Kawainui Kane on the web: http://herbkaneart.com/
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