Capturing Kānaka Through ManaChrome
Kenyatta Kelechi performs the art of wet plate photography through a uniquely Native Hawaiian lens.
To reflect the quintessence of fellow Native Hawaiians from generations ago, Kenyatta Kelechi performs the art of wet plate photography, which dates back to the 1850s. Subjects interacting with the ‘āina replace studio settings of old, an intentional reimagination through a uniquely Native Hawaiian lens. After capturing a single frame, Kelechi delves into a painstaking development process, one that he completes in the trunk of his car, a quick and portable darkroom. Images are immortalized onto a single pane of glass; black and brown tones are unique to each portrait.
Kelechi’s work can be seen at @_manachrome
Daniel Anthony and ‘ohana. Photo: Kenyatta Kelechi
