808 iD

Whoops

2012-01-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

I have a disease, it's called chronic forget about my blog for months at a time disease. I spoke to a doctor about this once and she told me that the best thing for this is to post as much as I can all at once and hopefully keep the momentum going as I go. I doubt that will ever happen but it's worth a try.

As my first attempt at that, I am going to post a Shit ton of pictures.

Enjoy

Nā wao 'ekolu t-shirts

2011-12-28T14:38:00.000-08:00

Nā wao 'ekolu after Christmas sale

$18 with free shipping to Hawai'i and Alaska

(add $5 for shipping to the 48 contiguous states)

This new design pays homage to the three realms of wao akua, the uplands and home of the gods, wao kanaka, the realm of man and kai ākea, the oceans that surround us. The three 'iwa on the bottom not only represent our family guide, but represents the relationship, parent to child, kupuna, mākua, mo'opuna, past, present, future. . .

E-mail to order: 808idesign@gmail.com

#Moku2011

2011-11-04T02:03:00.000-07:00

Technology is the best. Some of the greatest accomplishments were due to the people behind those accomplishments adapting and exploiting the newest technology available to give themselves an edge. The unification of the Hawaiian Islands by Kamehameha was largely due to his ability and willingness to adopt European weapons such as cannons. In a more modern less violent context, Kuhao Zane and his crew along with Sig Zane Designs has brought their simple International Hula Festival in Waikoloa into the new age with the use of technology such as the twitter, flickr, website blogs, and more. To keep up with the happening of this awesome event now in it's sixth year, Zane and his team offer numerous outlets from Twitter, to facebook, vimeo to flickr. They have even simplified the process for you by compiling these different social and media outlets into one website, Mokif.com. Check it out there and follow 808iD on twitter as we help promote and narrate this even using the #Moku2011 hash-tag.

Official Website
Mokif.com

Mokif Twitter
@Mokif

Hash-tag
#Moku2011

Vimeo
Vimeo.com/Mokif

Flickr
Flickr.com/mokif

Thoracic cage

2011-10-29T17:19:00.000-07:00

What up girls and boys, todays lesson is in anatomy. The cavity that protects your lungs is called your plural cavity and the thing that protects your plural cavity is your thoracic cage a.k.a your rib cage. Whew. Now that we got that out of the way, let's get to the real reason you're reading this post...The Tattoos! It's amazing the way fads work in this world. It's like the idea of monkey see monkey do except in tattooing, it's monkey get tattoo, monkey get similar tattoo. This is specifically geared towards a tattoo I did on a girls ribs of a dream catcher that she designed based off of Miley Cyrus's dream catcher in the same spot. And to clear the air about people thinking I'm over reacting, she showed me a pic of Miley's tattoo and was like "like this one". I guess what I'm trying to say is, be original guys, fads come and go but at least if you're gonna follow the trend, make it your own interpretation. With that being said, enjoy the pictures of some other rib pieces as well as the "Hannah Montana" tattoo.

This is probably the rippest dude I've ever tattooed...no homo. Cool thing was that he is a chinese major and brought his own characters for this tattoo and it meant something along the lines of "fight adversity" or "charge head forth into challenges"

The Hannah Montana haha I still like the way it turned out, don't get me wrong. My first dream catcher ever but I doubt it'll be my last haha

First sitting done. Big plan is to have them done on both sides. He only wanted the outline for this side but I think I wanna convince him to shade it

Cute little tattoo on a cute little girl haha. She made me reconsider my eating habits. She's also dope because she's a Beatles fan as you can tell by the quotes used!

Hilo 2.0

2011-10-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

So this past weekend I decided to head back to Hilo, mostly because I wanted to finish a piece I started on my last trip. I also do a couple new tattoos that I really enjoyed and a bunch I never thought would happen haha. It was also nice to just go home and relax after a kind of hectic week of studying. Can't wait until the next time, which will probably be thanksgiving. If you're interested in scheduling something for my next hilo trip or want to get work done in Hilo shoot me an email at 808idesign@gmail.com or message me on facebook.

Finally got to finish with the color after two long ass sessions of outlining shading and background fill.

Added on to the name on her hip I did for her daughter a couple months ago

Added on to the name she already had on her chest. Name by Naea of Native Flesh Hilo

The eldest and the youngest getting their Kanji in two different styles.(these were the tattoos I never thought would happen, along with the one below haha)

She only wanted to do the online for now. We added the Kanji the family kanji the next day but I forgot to take a picture. Can't wait to add on to this one!

Lines, dots, lines, dots, LINES. and. DOTS.

2011-10-04T21:28:00.000-07:00

As artist, it's important to always take breaks and experiment in other styles and mediums. Tattoo artist(in my opinion) are the biggest offenders of this. Most times they dabble in painting, Tim Hendricks does water color, Nikko Hurtado kills it with his oils. Me, I prefer to stick to graphite and ink. However, I do like to dabble in different styles and techniques. I've recently tried my hand at using lines and dots to create value and texture, exploiting the hell out of my micron pens. This is the result.

"always on my mind"

"Fishey fishey of the sea, do you have a crush on me?"

Tattos, music, and birthday

2011-09-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

So as I promised, I'm going to try and update this thing a little more often. This past weekend I got to fly home and do what I do, tattoo. Although it was a tattoo trip I had a couple other reasons alternative motives behind this trip.

First of all it was my moms birthday on saturday and last year we flew to Oahu to celebrate because she was spending the year teaching at Kapalama. So this year, because we switched Islands and she's back in Hilo and I'm now in Oahu, I decided to fly back to Hilo to celebrate.

Secondly, it was HILO'S HO'OLAULE'A! If you're from Hilo you know that it's the biggest block party/concert of the year. Nothing beats it or even comes close to its awesomeness because not only is it 3 stages of the best local bands in the state pumping non-stop music, it's also MANUAHI(FREE)! But as I said earlier, I was there to tattoo because funds in Oahu we dwindling haha! So here are a couple pics from the trip, hope to make it out there again soon, maybe next month *wink *wink

Beast Mode

2011-09-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

Normally, I have no problem doing bigger tattoos, but with these tattoos, big is almost an understatement. My boy right here is about 5'5" and quite possibly 180 lbs(rough estimation on my part). He's a beast! He embodies the phrase, "go big or go home". For his very first tattoo, he decided to tattoo his entire chest. Most people when they get their first tattoo, get a sleeve or something, or maybe even just one side of their chest. As if that wasn't enough, he decided to start his left arm sleeve only a few days later. I like this guy, Can't wait until we do his upper half of his sleeve.

"Glory to God"

Quote on his wrist: "As for me and my house, we will serve the lord"

Oahu Scrizzles

2011-09-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

So when I was living in Hilo, I found that I was doing so much polynesian and asian work that all I wanted to do was so script. Well wish granted, since I've been in Oahu I have yet to do a piece that didn't include script in it. Now, I can't wait to get back home so I can go back to my tattooing roots and work in my natural element, polynesian haha. btw, I apologize for the long breaks between posts, I like to post with themes but I promise I'll start posting more often with up dates on tattoos as I'm doing them.

My boy Bryce, first tattoo for him, first for me here in Oahu

Braddah Kevin Fox(my favorite black kid ever) giving his chest up to his grandma

my boy giving up his WHOLE chest up for his very first tattoo...go big or go home right?

"Ua Lawa Makou i Ka Pohaku" if you don't know what that means, you better look it up! such a perfect spot for the meaning

I think I'm finally getting the hang of this script thing hahaNow Oahu, hit me up for some asian or poly work!

Mash up

2011-07-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

808 iD's goal has always been to merge the two dominant ethnicities in Hawaii, Hawaiian and Japanese, and bring them together as cohesive entities. I've finished one particular piece recently that matches displays that description. My boy Kyle from back in boy scout days wanted an ulua tattoo on his chest with some polynesian designs as well as his mon(family crest) with in it. I was pretty stoked from the get go although I did get a little nervous when I was drawing the design on to his chest and his girlfriend was like "umm can you fix the shape of the head to make it look more ulua like?" If I were a fisherman like Kyle, she'd definitely be a keep!
There is also Justin's back piece that I've been working on for a couple weeks that is another great example of blending ethnic backgrounds. On one side we have the sun from the legends of the demi-god Maui. within the sun we have two halves of the face, one in a polynesian style and the other representative of a kabuki painted face. Next step is to add the imperial sun and the great wave to tie in the kanji.

Repeat offenders

2011-07-05T16:27:00.000-07:00

Tattoos have always worked in trends. Back in the day it was all about fairies, unicorns, barbwire, and tribal bands everywhere. Now days, it seems that the trends are sleeves and feet for girls. I know I've done my fair share of both.

What the H i've been up to

2011-07-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

So I realized that I have a really bad problem, I am a chronic blog neglector. So just to let you all know I'm not dead, here's a couple updates for y'all.

First of all, it's SUMMER TIME! which means vacations and a lot more tattoos. Trip number one was to Ohau. Restocked on swag and finished my cousin Josh's leg up. Also, got to see Kung Fu Panda 2, best movie I've seen so far this summer(better than transformers 3 in my opinion)

My Second trip was to Northridge, CA where I accompanied THE Tricia Allen as her assistant. Although I only did one tattoo on braddah Dan O. it was well worth the cost of flying just in experience gained. I got my ass whooped in hygiene and I got a lesson in the tools of the trade.

After 3 weeks of going here and there with my Oahu trip and then my california trip, I was itching so bad to come home and tattoo...So I did, and I did it big!

I guess my friends in Hilo wanted to get tattooed just as much as I wanted to tattoo which led to two full weeks booked solid. I did everything from polynesian hip pieces to script to asian, and even a filipino inspired arm sleeve. Much mahalo to all of my clients both new and returning, you guys are awesome!

In closing I'd just like to announce that starting August 18th, my new residence during the school the 2011-2012 school year will be in Frear Hall on Oahu at Manoa. Haven't quite figured out how or if I'm gonna be able to tattoo out of my dorm room yet but rest assured my machines will be with me.

Enough talk, enjoy some pictures.

Josh

Andrew D.

J-Lei

adding on to her previous tattoo(done by someone else)

The 12 hour tattoo

Kiley K.

Haku's Memorial for Maka'ala

Lei's Ear

Keha Aiwohi

Check out my tattoo page to see More of my work

Hope's Redemption

2011-03-18T19:08:00.000-07:00

So for those who follow me avidly, and don't worry if you don't, I understand because I probably don't follow you either. For those who do however, you will remember my cousin Hope whose foot I did back in November over the thanksgiving holiday. Well, Hope finally decided to finish her foot but shading in the flowers as well as cleaning um some lines. This process took a grand total of 11 minutes, and by the end Hope was itching for more. She wanted originally to get a scripture on her wrist, and not just the scripture and verse number, she wanted the whole thing. We went back and forth on this idea until I finally convinced her out of it and we went with her shoulder blade instead.
Once we decided on what and where, it was time to draw it out. Let me tell you something, when you're dealing with a number of words in the double digits, it's easy to miss a thing or two along the way. Good thing my other cousin Lacey(also got her foot done in November) posted a picture of the stencil and posted it on facebook because if she hadn't, poor hope would've had the word "stength" on her back rather than "strength". Thanks to the attentive facebook users out there we fixed the little mix-up and got the tattoo done without a snag.

Sunday sketch

2011-03-13T22:13:00.000-07:00

So for a while I tried doing this thing called "Sunday Sketch" where I would take my most open day of the week to draw something and just blow off some steam. Lately though, it seems that my weekends have been more creative but in a different medium. Last week I did the marathon of tattoos at a friends house, tattooing her whole family. Today, I did my boy Tevon who has been a pretty loyal customer by getting a drawing I made for him exactly as it was drawn. I used to hate when friends would ask me to draw them a tattoo and the artist the have to do it changes the design completely. So I was stoked that he had my design on his arm and it was only right that I did his chest for him to add some closure. Along with tattooing him I also did some script on his friend as well as a impromptu chest plate on Tevons cousin from Kentucky. All in all it was quite an eventful day, starting at 10 and ending just before 6.

24

2011-03-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

I remember when that show 24 was on air, I used to think, no way this can all happen in 24 hours. Now, I realize when you put your time towards a positive effort, 24 hours is more than enough time. This past weekend in a matter of 24 hours I managed to do 4 full tattoos, 3 of which were colored. It all started on monday when I tattooed my friend Ku'uipo who had been referred to me from my friend Jojo. From there, Ku'uipo referred her boyfriend Andrew to me. After seeing the two tattoos, Ku'uipo's family became interested in getting tattooed and contacted me about their ideas. Within the three day period of Thursday to Saturday, we conversated and came up with four unique tattoos for each of them. At the end of Sunday I was wiped out from tattooing 8 1/2 hours straight and 3 hours the night before. As tired as I was, it was all worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Big mahalo to my new favorite household and hope to do it again soon.

-Keahi

"Jojo Bean: A tale of the small and Mighty"

2011-02-10T00:13:00.000-08:00

Let me introduce you to my friend Jolene a.k.a Jojo a.k.a Jojo Bean, a.k.a Joj, a.k.a Randal. This girl is about 5'4'', probably less actually, and about 100 pounds. This was her first very tattoo, and before we started, girl was tripping out. She had given me total control on design, placement, size, everything. All her guy friends told her she wouldn't be able to handle which made her very fearful of the tattoo. However, once we started, she was totally fine. She was so good in fact, that in the 4ish hours it took to complete the tattoo, the only time she flinched was maybe 10 minutes into the tattoo when we hit her tickle spot. Besides that, girl just sat there like a champ. She's my new favorite person to tattoo and we already have plans for another.

-AI

Breaking radio silence

2011-02-06T13:51:00.000-08:00

So it's been a quick minute since the last time I've posted something but rest assured, I am back with plenty to share. Ive been steady upping my game with drawings, shoes and tattoos, all around bad-ass-ness.

Some Shoes

For Alyssa H.

The Lauhala paint job for Haku

Some Drawings

Practicing stuff I don't normally draw

Dots!

Some tattoos

Original work by Rio King

Check out my tattoo page for more tattoos

To contact me for tattoos or custom orders, e-mail me at 808idesign@gmail.com

Special Order Hat

2011-01-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

This is a special order for one of my students at Kamehameha Kapalama. He wanted a green hat, manō, water elements, tribal and rasta colors.

If you want your own special order hat, let us know!

Special Order Shoes

2010-12-29T14:39:00.000-08:00

Ahi's been working hard on his tattoos and reinvesting in his t-shirts, so he doesn't do many shoes anymore, but he'll still do special orders. Hit him up through Facebook or email.

Here's last night's work on Justin Hirae's gift from Jenna Aina: the phoenix and koi - free hand on old-school black Converses

O'ahu tattoo session

2010-12-29T14:31:00.000-08:00

Ahi was in Honolulu for the Bruno Mars concert and hooked up with his cousin Josh Ah Sing to do Josh's leg piece. Next Oahu trip: spring break.

The Ah Sing Sisters

2010-11-27T10:56:00.001-08:00

For thanksgiving, my cousins from Oahu came to the Big Island to enjoy the simpler life, a nice vacation from the hustle and bustle that the city brings. Two of my cousins that I am particularly close with, Lacey and Hope Ah Sing, decided to get tattooed while they were here. Due to certain circumstances out of any of our control, these tattoos had to take place at night. So we got to the house at about 9:30 p.m and began the brainstorming process of what to do as a tattoo. It was only then that we realized, "wow, we have no idea what we're going to do." the funny part to this story is that Lacey and I were planning this tattoo for a couple months in advance but due to sheer laziness, there were no official sketches done before hand.
So after about an hour an a half or so of going back and forth on designs and placement, we finally decided on a tattoo. First up, was Lacey, because at first, Lacey was the only one scheduled to be tattooed. We drew out the design on to her foot and we were off and 30 minutes later, the first tattoo was completed with very little whimpering or commotion.
This is about the time when Hope(the one with the ideas) decided that she wanted to get the same tattoo done but differently. Hope said the the tiare was in fact HER favorite flower and if her sister could handle, so could she.
So, with the second verse the same as the first, we began the adventure which was tattooing Hope. Unlike her kaikuaana, Hope was a little more apprehensive to the needle and as soon as the Machine began, so did the torture. This marathon of both pain and laughter consisted of a half and hour session with breaks ever two minutes or so with one great cramp towards the end. When all was said and done however, the out come was well worth the endeavor resulting in two beautiful tattoos, two sisters bonded by ink, and one unforgettable night.

Congratulations Lacey and Hope!

Follow us on Facebook for the latest

2010-11-25T14:08:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the Kamahalo Craft Fair in Volcano. We know itʻs far, but Kamahalo is actually run by our family (grandma Hughes), so weʻll brave the cold. Kamahalo is one of our kupuna from Molokaʻi.

There are also lots of artists in Volcano Village who open up their studios for thanksgiving weekend. Come by if youʻre in the neighborhood. Weʻve got black Friday specials on our newest wahine t - Maluhia because this is the season for peace. The shirts are fitted for curves, but we also have some xl loose for the more modest gals.

We'll also be bringing our trucker hats. Remember, everything is original so if you like it, get it. No one else will ever have the same hat as you.

It's been a while...

2010-11-22T23:49:00.000-08:00

Yea, so it's been a while since this blog has even been touched but I promise to make up for it. Here are some updates of what 808 iD has been up to lately.

So first off as you all know, I have gotten into tattooing and have slowly been working on making my work better and and stronger each time. The first is a good friend of mine, Britney who has been so generous as to be my "Japanese-style tattoo testing dummy". Luck for her, it actually went better than expected resulting in a beautiful mash-up of a koi, lotus, sakura, and her kanji "Naka-Yama". Next of with her we're going to try and tackle some Thai style lettering to represent her moms side of the family...wish me luck on that one.

Next up we have one of the cool kids from my high school hangout spot, Amanda Panda....not Panda is not really her last name. This tattoo by far was the most fun and technically challenging tattoos i've done to date, in one session no less. Girl took it like a champ and the mana'o behind this piece is the reason I began tattooing.

Last up, the Kamahalo Christmas craft fair is soon approaching, Nov. 26-27, at the Cooper Center in Volcano. There will be a special sale for everyone who comes on Black Friday only. Details will be posted up on this blog as well as the facebook page on thursday.

The real deal

2010-10-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

Let me just start off by saying that this tattoo was one of the most roller-coaster like tattoo i've ever done. The first session was on a whim, the second session was totally frustrating and discouraging, and the final session was one of the best ever.
Now that I got that out of the way, this tattoo was a powerful stepping stone in both the life of the recipient as well as my own. This is the first real tattoo of size that I have completely finished on my own from start to pau.

O ka pueo ka hoailona

2010-10-18T15:36:00.001-07:00

In Hawaii there are legends told of powerful Pele, magestic 'aumakua, and mystical hoailona. The pueo is both one of the many 'aumakua protecting and watching over the people of Hawaii nei but also one of the most powerful and beautiful hoailona or "signs". The pueo represents protection and knowledge, traits similar to the bird itself. Many people look to it in times of uncertainty and struggle with hopes that the pueo will guide them through.
This pueo once finished will do the same for it's wearer with designs that incorporate family and strength through this new chapter in his life.

Kau i ke kukulu

2010-09-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

"Kau i ke kukulu" Roughly translates to building on the foundation. This phrase best describes my personal journey through tattoos. My first tattoo I received was when I graduated high school and was on my shoulder. That tattoo for me represented my family, my transition into a new stage of life as well as the mo'o. The mo'o or lizard was one of the many 'aumakua worshiped throughout the islands and one of the most famous lived not too far from where I live now. Panaewa(the mo'o) was famous his epic battles against Pele and Hi'iaka. However, mo'o as a word was a very important one to the Hawaiians. Mo'o, besides meaning lizard, was also a prefix to a lot of powerful hua'olelo. For example Mo'olelo, Mo'okuauhau, Mo'opuna, and so on. The basic gist of this is that it represents lineal movement through time, generations, and stories. This mo'o was the beginning of my tattoo journey.

The newest work is something a little different. It's Traditional Hawaiian designs with a little bit of asian flow to it. It is also the next step in my journey. The first part(on my shoulder) was to represent my family and to know that I have a strong foundation in them. This next step is for protection as I set forth on my own journey as a young man. My journey through life is nowhere near being done...and neither is my tattoo journey!

All about progression

2010-09-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

The aftermath of session number two on the pe'a. We stuck with the sort of Filipino feel with the turtle shell pattern but we also started putting in the Samoan designs as well. This is definitely a more modern version of the traditional pe'a. The part the goes from his back and on to his hip is a representation of the lashing that was used to bind the houses together. The part on his lower back(i call it his "tramp stamp" haha) is the kawa bowl with different patterns represented in the lashing of the houses. *The Kawa bowl design was done by my mentor, Uncle Ni

The road to manhood

2010-09-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

In Samoa,when a boy was to become a man, he was put to the ultimate test, the pe'a. The pe'a traditionally, was tattooed on a boy when he was ready to become a man and was done to test and push the boys pain tolerance. It was also to protect the boy for his life as a man. Each design was significant and were based off of different things in nature that inflicted pain.

For this Pe'a that I started on a friend of mine with the help of my mentor, Rodney Powell, the meaning for it is the same but the designs are a little different. Traditionally, the pe'a is tattooed from top to bottom so that is what we did as well. The first element is always the wa'a which represents the journey. This wa'a is based off of the Hawaiian style wa'a with traditional Filipino designs incorporated with in it.

This tattoo is and will be symbolic for the both of us because it is his first tattoo as well as my first tattoo of this magnitude. Malo Kupaianaha! Congratulations on the beginning of your journey.

Mommy's new tattoo

2010-09-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

So my mom and I were talking about finishing up her back that our tattoo artist had started but I had to decline the offer because it wasn't my project. Instead of that, we decided to do something for the youngest of the three boys, Pono. When My mom got her tattoos for me and my older brother, it was for graduation but she decided to get this one a little sooner, just in case when the time comes around he might not want to get one. However, this tattoo is much more that just a tattoo of the youngest in our family, it's also to represent the completion of our family. The he'e design along the outside of it represents Pono, and how hes a little more reserved and to himself that the rest of us but he always had a good grasp on things just like the octopus. He also has the eye for seeing he'e while diving which any local knows, is hard. The four Iwa represent the four men in my moms life, my dad, my older brother, me, and pono. And the lauhala pattern on symbolizes her family strength and unity. And the "Kapua'i" design between the lauhala represent the steps of her kupuna.

Alyssa ice cream cone

2010-08-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

Alyssa, my homie from back in Nelly's Trig class, has been my so called "go-to" friend when I ever wanted to talk about art or more recently, tattoos. She has a couple of tattoos herself and was nice enough to let me practice new tattooing techniques on her. Keep in mind, this design was totally spur of the moment after about an hour long session of catching up and trying to think of a design. Finally, from a design I had tucked a way in one of my sketchbooks, we decided to do this ice cream cone. This was my first experience with color and I think it went well regardless of the fact that I had to mix most of my colors. It was a fun session and hopefully we'll be have more spontaneous tattoos in the near future.

works in progress

2010-08-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

Being a new tattoo artist, I knew it was crazy to expect that I'd be able to take on every tattoo with the ability as a veteran but I figured if I go a bit at a time, the pieces will get better as we go along and will show the progress i make with each new tattoo. Here are two projects I started, one on my friend Britney, and the other on my brother Isaac. These are the first attempts in their respective styles but will definitely not be the last. As an artist I try not to confine myself to specific styles but I will say that these two styles are my main focuses.

Brits Back Piece

Isaacs Back Piece

Jennas Pueo

2010-08-11T02:34:00.000-07:00

Just did this the other day on my good friend Jenna Pang-ching. Her aumakua are both the pueo(owl) and the puhi(eel). So to combine the two I put the features of the pueo along with its feathers and incorporated it into a design in the shape of the puhi's body. Both aumakua are protectors in the two realms in which they reside, the pueo in Wao ka lani(the sky) and the puhi in kai 'akea(the ocean). This tattoo will serve as protection as well as her own "808 iD" as she travels to Portland Oregon to attend College.

Papale Pulelehua

2010-08-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

So I've been working on butterflies lately because I'm working on a tattoo for a friend. So when I finished all of the butterflies she asked for, I decided to make just one more while the idea was still fresh in my mind. So this is Papale Pulelehua or "Butterfly hat"...yeah that's all I can think of, oh well.

808 iD blog Button

2010-07-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

So here at 808 iD we just a got a little bit more tech smart in the past couple months and we are excited to present our 808 iD button. This button can be posted on any html formatted website and will link viewers to this site here. So please support 808 iD by posting this button on your myspace(if anyone still uses it), blogs, tumblrs, and anything else you can think of! Get the word out

Copy the code below and paste it on to your sites. Mahalo nui loa for the continued support!

Summer Project

2010-07-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

So it's been a while since I posted what I have been up to. So this summer, besides working on hats, tattoos, and new graphics, I decided to start a "home improvement" project. Below are some pics of the wall that I've been painting in my soon to be studio.

Masking up my lines before I begin painting

first coats of paint

Everyone needs an assistant

Almost done, just have to fill in the white spaces and we're good

close-up of the right side that I did

Close-up of the left side that Jenna did "Pauole Ka Uhane"

July 4 Inventory (so far)

2010-07-01T22:34:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Brown Truckers

2010-06-07T15:45:00.000-07:00

Not done yet, but trying a more subtle look for the chocolate brown trucker. What do you think?

Hat blanks are in

2010-06-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

Ua Mau t's

2010-05-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

A modern take on Kauikeaouli's, Kamehameha III's, proclamation spoken on July 31, 1843. This was the day that sovereignty was restored to Hawaii by proclamation of Queen Victoria following a five-month-long rogue British occupation. The motto appears on the coat of arms of the kingdom of Hawaii and was adopted in May 1845.

It is popularly translated as "the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness," but based on the context of the original proclamation, we prefer to say, "the sovereignty of the land is perpetuated in righteousness."

We have white men's t-shirts and black with pink wahine tanks. If you're interested and don't want to wait until the Volcano 4th of July craft fair, e-mail Ahi (808idesign@gmail.com) or comment on the blog or Facebook.

Mother's Day Crocs

2010-05-09T21:33:00.000-07:00

My mother's day shoes. It's becoming a tradition that for mother's day I get shoes from Ahi. I actually had these red ballet shoe Crocs, then he started making a tiare design, changed his mind, erased what he did (ancient Pake secret), then came up with this multi-layer design.

Art is music. Music is art.

2010-05-06T01:11:00.000-07:00

So I found an old Suzuki guitar(yea, I've never heard of that either) at my grandmas house like a year ago and it was in pretty bad shape. The varnish on the body was all cracked and blistered so I decided to sand it all down and hook it up, 808 iD style. Here at 808 iD we tattoo just about anything we can get our hands on and this guitar was no different. I drew inspiration from more Samoan motifs, because that's just the mood I was in, but I also threw a clef note in there with a little tribal twist after talking to one of my friends about a tattoo he saw including the treble clef. Hopefully, this is the first of more to come, If the next couple ones I have lined up work out, I might just start taking orders and add guitars to my product list as well.

Now I just need to learn how to play.

Wahine o ke kai

2010-04-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

Special order for Anake Sunny. She's giving it as a gift :-)!

Women's Tennis hats

2010-04-29T11:36:00.000-07:00

Anake Dianne's hibiscus tennis hat

Seen em da arare

2010-04-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

Mahalo to Uncle Kinohi of Hawnmade who wore the 808iD Kawili T at his "Feed My Tummy" show! You're the first "Seen em da arare" star.

Kāwili shirts now available in black and ice gray

2010-04-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

Kāwili - blend - these 808iD originals blend traditional ohe kapala designs with modern tattoo styles. It's all about "know your roots, know yourself."

Interested? Email me (808idesign@gmail.com) or comment with your email.
S - XL = $15
XXL = $17
If you're in Hilo, free pickup. All others, $5 shipping.

Mahalo!

kukui hele po

2010-04-17T20:15:00.001-07:00

kukui hele po
Originally uploaded by 808iD

"Kukui Hele Po" or lantern is the first piece I painted for my Next Generation art show happening this thursday along side with Kiki Campbells art of fashion showcase. Check it out at the Kammehameha high school chapel(William Charles Lunalilo Center) on 4/22 3p.m to 5

Buy One, Get One Free Jamba

2010-04-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

Don't you hate those commercials for food with the fine print that says "not available in Hawaii." This one is good in Hawaii. Go to the link, http://www.jambajuice.com/20thcoupon/index.html print out the coupon and head over to the Prince Kuhio Mall jamba or the one near you.
Now - 4/25.

YIN YANG battle

2010-04-13T01:53:00.001-07:00

YIN YANG battle- Final
Originally uploaded by 808iD

Now that Merrie Monarch is over I have time to get back to my other roots and do some practice work before I begin rep for next year. This weeks sunday sketch took a little longer than usual and actually took Sunday AND Monday night to finish due to all of the shading. I did this as a concept pice for ma boy Charlie. We were talking about dope tattoo ideas and this came up. The story is that the dragon and the tiger represent Yin and Yang who are constantly in battle but wouldn't be complete without each other.

8ish hours total of sketching, outlining, and shading...shading took the longest obviously

enjoy

Papale Thursday

2010-04-08T23:52:00.000-07:00

Mahalo to the Maui hālau who came by the booth today and almost bought us out.
Mahalo to the Lids manager who, when we came by to buy some blank hats today told us that choke people were buying blank hats today. Hmmmm.
Mahalo to Kuhaʻo Zane for his leadership and for wearing his papale tonight on TV.
Mahalo to the aunties and uncles wearing their papale lauhala today. So nice, gotta be papale Thursday.

Hope you're enjoying the show. Go Kapua!

Some facts about the 808iD hats:

Each hat is unique. What you get - no one else going have.
Hats are hand drawn, not stenciled, not sprayed, hand drawn and waterproofed.
Each hat is named - it has its own moʻolelo ʻcause art without moʻolelo is just random lines on paper. You tell me your stories, I'll tell you mine - together we can make something that represents your kupuna, your ohana, your one hānau.

Taniwha

2010-04-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

So I was working with my grandma at our booth at the Merrie Monarch craft fair and we had a little bit of down time. On our down time we visited Sami Fevaleaki's booth where he sells Hand carved bone necklaces. My mom had bought me a Taniwha or maori water spirit for me from him a couple years back and sometime this past summer it was lost. So this year, we decided to go back and try and find a new one and as a gift, My grandmother bought me a new one. It feels so much better to have something around my neck again, I feel...not naked.

Merrie Monarch Rains

2010-04-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

Rain in Hilo during Merrie Monarch week is a good omen that the festival will be extra special. I can't wait to see what's going to happen. Some of the best performances happened when Hilo was storming, and with three of our own controlling things from above, watch carefully. . .look for the hōʻailona.

If you're not following us on Facebook, there have been daily teasers of our one of a kind hats. We'll be at the Butler Building from Wednesday - Saturday, but if you're not in Hilo, and want to contact Ahi about new merchandise or special orders, contact us through Facebook or 808idesign@gmail.com.

Here's this morning's teaser:

Shoes Make the Man

2010-04-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

Tevons Arm

2010-04-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

For his birthday braddah Tevon asked me to draw him up a sleeve for his arm. So I decided to take this opportunity to try something a little different and the result was pretty fresh.

The Pinky Show: Hawaii VS U.S Imperialism

2010-03-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Never did I ever expect to learn something in my senior English class but boy, how wrong I was. We are starting a unit on protest poetry which I was actually stoked on but before we can start the unit our teacher showed us an episode of The Pinky Show. The pinky show is an amazingly fresh and new take to educating people(mainly student) about heavy political issues. The episone that we watched was about the difference between Hawaiis history as the Government has told us, and what really happened. Mahalo to my kumu at Na pua Noeau for teaching me these kind of things before hand. But if you want to know the real story about Hawaiis Sovereign status, watch this video.

Mahalo Mrs. Lamberg for playing us this video!

Furikake Puffs

2010-03-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

So Foodland has really impressed me these past couple of months. Not only did they come out with the greatest reuse bag and reusable water bottle, but now they carry Furikake Puffs. Furikake Puffs are the single most addictive things you will ever get your hands on. The first time I tried these I ate half a bag by myself within the first ten minutes. I highly recommend you pick one up before they disappear.

Sunday Sketch-3/28

2010-03-29T11:22:00.001-07:00

I heart HI
Originally uploaded by 808iD

So this week Sunday was a good sunday. I got to to sleep in, finished my news writing homework, had a strawberry slush float, went bowling with the crew, but most importantly, I did a concept drawing that I was actually quite proud of. This week was about putting yet another new twist to such a classic. I heart HI. It's a bit sketchy but hey, it's only the first time around, expect a finished version sometime in the future.

Senior Legacy

2010-03-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

So yesterday, March 27th, I held the first annual "Next Genereation" art class as part of my senior Legacy Project. Mahalo to Isaiah, Maka'ala, Anyssa"Weird Hungry girl", and Reegan the over achiever for attending. Big Mahalo to Kuhao Zane for coming down and talking with the kids. What great Saturday.

jims crocs

2010-03-17T22:22:00.001-07:00

jims crocs
Originally uploaded by 808iD

So I was holding on to brother Jims crocs for about a month and I finally found them and decided to do something special for him after putting it off to the side for so long. What he wanted was something that represented both turtles and Pele. Instead of trying to go super deep and create designs merging the two, I decided to go more modern with the design and display both as individual items. The result, was something even I had a hard time believing. So here you go Jim, Sorry for the delay.

808 iD bag

2010-03-17T22:11:00.001-07:00

808 iD bag
Originally uploaded by 808iD

So in preparation for Merrie Monarch this year, I decided to make bags. This one here is actually a lemon yellow shoulder bag(my phone camera didn't do the colors justice) with tiares, tribals, and lauhala hand drawn with brown ink. This will be on sale at the craft fair for $35.

New Designs

2010-03-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

I started working on a new collection for 808 iD, this collection is a little different from the usual tribal designs that I've done in the past. With this collection I'm trying to portray strong Hawaiian messages from the past in a more modern forum that appeals to a wider audience.

foodland reusable bottles

2010-03-08T11:27:00.001-08:00

foodland thermis
Originally uploaded by 808iD

So by this point in time everyone has seen the reuse bags that Foodland put together with a bunch of local sayings on it. Definitely one of the sweeter reuse bags in my collection. Now, Foodland has upped the recyclables ante by creating these reusable bottles.

Pick them up and save the world...one bottle at a time

american menu

2010-03-08T11:22:00.001-08:00

american menu
Originally uploaded by 808iD

I was eating at Miwas Japanese Resturaunt this weekend with my girlfriends family and in their menu I found this. If everything in Hawaii made this kind of distinction, the world would be a much better place.

Sprinkles Cupcakes

2010-03-01T21:08:00.001-08:00

Sprinkles Cupcakes
Originally uploaded by 808iD

So I've been in California for the last couple of days for a competition and today was our last full day here. So we decided, thanks to a reference from our coach, to Sprinkles Cupcakes in Beverly Hills. It was probably the last place I expected to find myself during this trip but one taste of the Red Velvet cupcake and I was sold. If you ever find yourself in Beverly Hills, this is definitely a stop you have to make, the red velvet cupcakes are the best!

The script on the window is dope too

Hectic Flight

2010-02-26T19:16:00.000-08:00

So you probably already caught the scoops of what went down yesterday at Honolulu International Airport. This is a view from the inside.

Thank you to the staff of Honolulu Burger King for not cleaning their grills and starting a grease bent fire.

Honolulu was Smokin'

2010-02-26T17:25:00.000-08:00

Ahi is in Cali right now for a cheerleading competition, but he couldn't even leave Honolulu without some drama. If you want to know what's going on with him, follow his tweets (right column).

So back to Honolulu - read about it at the Honolulu Advertiser.

Yesterday, while the team was waiting in to go to LAX, the fire alarms start ringing and the building is getting smoky. Burger King has a vent fire. You know, home of the flame-broiled burgers. Eventually, they evacuate then haul themselves to the international airport and leave about 2 hours late. One of the girls is hurt so they need a wheelchair and Ahi hurt his ankle at gym yesterday, so he's a hop-along too.

Well that was yesterday. Today he actually passed LA Ink, so he's stoked. Maybe he can be their next shop manager.

ua lawa makou i ka pohaku

2010-02-22T20:34:00.001-08:00

ua lawa makou i ka pohaku
Originally uploaded by 808iD

The original 'Aipohaku. This one comes from the famous song "Kaulana na pua a.k.a the 'Aipohaku song". Politics influence a lot of what I do and i decided that it's time to start working on a shirt that will display another one of my passions.

Sunday Sketch 2/21

2010-02-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

This week for my sunday sketch I decided to work on a little bit of script. "Hana ka lima" means to work with your hands. I just happened to have a drawing of kalo in the works as well so I decided to throw it all together and came out with this.

Spam Nuts

2010-02-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

So This time, I was strolling through the new Foodland that took over Puna Fresh Foods and while I was in the check out line, something caught my eye. Hamakua Plantations Brand Spam flavored Macadamia nuts. Really? I see this as more of a novelty item than anything else. The way it looks, it's macadamia nuts sprinkled in some kind of spam flavored powder. I wasn't brave enough to buy it and try it.

The Next Generation: Art Class

2010-02-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

So this is the first part of my senior legacy project. One day event held at Kamehameha Schools in the Kaoleioku art building on Saturday, March 27th. Instructors include local cartoonist and art teacher Gary Hoff, as well as Kuha'o Zane from Sig Zane Designs.
Open to students from 6th through 8th Grade, space is limited. For more information or to sign up contact me at 808idesign@gmail.com

Bookmark it

2010-02-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

So I was browsing through borders the other day, and while I was in the check out line I came across these koa cut-out book marks. There were some with leaf print cut-outs and then there was the Marijuana bookmark. When I saw this I was like wow, this has got to be the worst bookmark ever. Just as I thought that another one caught my eye...Bj Penn bookmarks? really?

Domo Arigato

2010-02-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

So I was browsing 808 Empire and saw this dope shirt that Fumanchu just dropped. It's called Arigato and seems to be a perfect drop to the comming of the Chinese New Year. $24 at the 808 empire store

Kona Island?

2010-02-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows that Wal Mart secretly sells the most popular hat in Hawaii. This hat is the "hang loose" hat found in the tourist department but every local seems to own one...i know i did. But now, the company that distributes through Wal Mart has come out with this new design. Call me a bad Hawaiian but I had no idea that kona was an actual Island. And where's Oahu?

I bought the hat despite its obvious flaws, I praise it for its imperfections and for the fact that it was only $2.

Wal Mart wonders

2010-02-15T17:54:00.000-08:00

So I was strolling through Wal Mart today and I found some hidden gems. These colorful watches are selling for $7 a piece available in red, orange, pink, blue, and black. If they had a white one I'd be all over it. I would say that these digital watches are a mix of Fossil and G-shock watches.

My mom got the pink one.

I guess my $50 Nixon timeteller will just have to hold me over.

Kua aina

2010-02-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

Holoholo to Grandpa's Rockin H Ranch in Glenwood

for a photo shoot for Grandma's palaka clothes

"Free Hugs"

2010-02-04T16:32:00.001-08:00

"Free Hugs"
Originally uploaded by 808iD

Today at Kamehameha the student body...and some faculty... were hit with a healthy dose of free hugs from Fish & Francis(Ahi Ikeda and Francis Blas).

The important message here is to show aloha everyday no matter what form it is delivered in. Join the movement or start one of your own, anything to spread love and positivity in times like these.
"Live Aloha, Pay it Forward"

Shakas and Stink eyes

2010-02-04T10:39:00.000-08:00

I was just browsing through a couple of local news site today during my News writing class and I came across a portion the Big Island Weekly called "Shakas and Stink eyes for the week". Basically shakas go out to something good that happened during the week and stink eyes go to the not so maika'i things.
This weeks shakas and stink eyes

Shakas:
-To Humpback whales numbers going up 6 percent over last years count.

-To all of the military soldiers and Hawaii National Guard -- thanks for your service.

-To a redux of the plastic bag ban -- it is the right thing to do

Stink Eyes:
-To the economy slamming isle car dealerships; in the long run it will take its toll.

-To the House for killing the Civil Unions bill -- it shows a lack of spine in state politicians.

-To the proliferation of little fire ants on the Big Island -- just like the coqui, they are here.

The Next Generation

2010-02-02T10:18:00.001-08:00

SOC
Originally uploaded by 808iD

At the Kamehameha Schools, seniors have to do what is called a senior legacy project. My academy is the Arts and Communications academy in the Visual Arts portion. So my senior legacy project is a series of art classes and then an art show showcasing the work done by the students. Right now I am looking for local artist who either want to participate and teach a class or offer some work to be shown at the art show.

For more information contact me at 808idesign@gmail.con

Our first giveaway!

2010-02-01T01:18:00.000-08:00

It's our first giveaway. If this goes well, we'll have more giveaways. Anyway, win an 808 id black and white circle sticker for your car, binder, pretty much anything. Here's the rules:

   1. You must be a follower +1
   2. Leave a comment with your email +2
   3. Tweet about it and leave the actual link on the comments +5
   4. Blog about the giveaway and include your link here +5

The contest is open until February 14, 2010. Sorry, but this contest is only open to those with a mailing address in the United States, either on the "main" land (Hawai'i) or on the continent.

Good luck, enter now and spread the word. Mahalo!

Sunday Sketching

2010-02-01T00:51:00.000-08:00

Sundays are the best days for sketching. Practicing the Japanese tattoo stylings again.

Join in next Sunday by posting your sketches.

Buzz Kill

2010-01-27T10:49:00.000-08:00

So my computer holding all of my graphics and all of my music, has officially flat lined and none of my work was backed up so I lost all of music(before i could load it to my ipod) and three new designs I was getting ready to print. So now all I have to work on is hats.

Back to square 1 =/

New Inventory

2010-01-22T01:20:00.000-08:00

Ahi is hard at work preparing for the next craft fair in Hilo: the Merrie Monarch craft fair at the Civic and Butler Building. We'll be in the Butler Building along with Rockin H Ranch wear (Ahi's grandma).

LIDS coupon

2010-01-06T17:53:00.000-08:00

Check out this coupon for $5 off one regularly priced hat at Lids.

Expires 1/31/10

The Mural is Done

2009-12-25T10:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T12:55:00.001-08:00

"Kainalu" red trucker (sold)

What Are You Doing this Holiday Break?

2009-12-22T14:21:00.000-08:00

On the holiday agenda:
Sleep, sleep, sleep
practice
finish the mural in the "green room"
sell more shirts
finish more hats
sleep, sleep, sleep
design more shirts

And you?

Lime Green Logo

2009-12-22T00:54:00.000-08:00

The days have been so gray in Hilo that a shot of color does a body good. (Sold)

Kumu Melelani's Black Converse with Silver

2009-12-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

The elements she wanted:
he Hawai'i au - "Hawaiian-ness"
lauhala
lawai'a
haloa

Hiapo

2009-12-05T19:35:00.001-08:00

Asians Run This

2009-11-15T22:55:00.000-08:00

So anybody who thought that the only things asians were good for were cheating off of during tests and making super dope technology...prepare to have your mind blown, AGAIN. If you look past all of the super technical choreography in the beginning, the tumbling is by far, the most amazing I have ever seen. And I know a thing or two about tumbling.

Jenna's Green Crocs

2009-11-15T22:17:00.001-08:00

Green sharpie on green crocs.

Feed My Tummy!

2009-11-11T22:50:00.000-08:00

So a good friend of mine, Kinohi Gomes a.k.a Haynmade is hosting an event along with Prototype in Ala Moana on December 1st from 6-9 p.m Anybody who is interested in the urban toys scene or digs some fresh gear, check it out. He'll be wearing an 808 iD shirt so be on the lookout if you do go.

Onalani

2009-11-11T20:37:00.001-08:00

purple1
Originally uploaded by 808iD

Not normally into this kind of stuff but i saw this link on a friends facebook and i decided to share it with everyone. It was originally their unique, Earthy but still strendy style that caught my attention but when i read more into their background, that's when i became hooked. Onalani is an environmentally friendly Bakery and Boutique based out of Maui. They're doing big things like donating 5% of their annual sales to three scholarships for high school students living in Maui. Big ups and I wish them well.

check them out at www.onalani.com

808ID shirts

2009-10-29T00:05:00.001-07:00

808ID shirts
Originally uploaded by 808iD

It's finally here, the first run of the 808 iD shirts. So stoked!
$15 for the regular sizes and $17 for 2XL...yes we carry 2XL.

Lost Generation

2009-10-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

One of the most amazing things I have ever heard, in a long time. Not only is it deep and thought provoking...but it's amazing and thought provoking both forward and backwards!.

maluhia

2009-10-20T01:54:00.001-07:00

maluhia
Originally uploaded by 808iD

Played around with some concepts a while back and this is one of the ones that worked...Girls tank tops maybe?

Senior Lu'au Jacket

2009-10-19T16:57:00.001-07:00

Jacket
jacket back
Originally uploaded by 808iD

WOHOO! I'm pretty stoaked, this is like my first design to be printed and sold, it was a commission for my school but hey, it's my work on jackets, and shirts too. It turned out so tight. It's a good thing I did this too because the other shirts that they sold...were but ugly, i think the shirts I made sold out before the night was through.

January 17th 1893

2009-10-19T01:16:00.001-07:00

January17WB
Originally uploaded by 808iD

808 iD is all about knowing your roots as a way to know yourself. January 17th, 1893 is one of those thing you must know about in order to know yourself as a Hawaiian in the 21st Century

Senior Lu'au

2009-10-19T00:50:00.000-07:00

So last night we had our Senior Lu'au and it was actually better than I expected. I mean, my expectations weren't THAT high but i had fun. I got called out and had to dance but i guess that's just how Lu'aus go. The funniest part about this whole thing is that they gave us SPORKS! One of the "richest" schools in the world and we can't afford separate spoons and forks, we got to cheap asses and but the two in one combo...That's Kamehameha Schools for ya.

808 iD For Lawrence Photography

2009-10-19T00:31:00.000-07:00

Did some practice work making ads for a friend of mine, Lawrence Photography. He's on the up and coming, look him up on facebook. He shoots it all, Model Portfolios, Fashion, Weddings, Senior Pictures, and Artistic Portraits.

Bad Luck

2009-10-16T15:59:00.000-07:00

I was pretty stoaked when I heard that at our school's Senior Luau there would be a performance by Inik and the big time players as well as Maui super group, Ekolu! As soon as I found out, I made sure to get my tickets early. Later I found out that There was going to be another concert on the same exact time at the UH. Damn concert promoters. GRR