Reece, Kim Taylor

Kim Taylor Reece, Hawaii's foremost fine art photographer, has been studying hula kahiko for over 25 years. A catalyst of Hawaii's Cultural Renaissance, his photography captures the mystery and magic of this dance, which for generations has excited the imaginations of people around the world.

He says of his work, "While depicting stories of Hawaii, the hula kahiko reveals the power and emotion of the human spirit. Dancers are able to portray the gentle touch of a breeze; the heat of a scorching sun; the smell of a fresh blossom. It has been my goal to capture those moments."

In his research, Kim has traveled with the Hawaii State Foundation of Culture and the Arts, enabling him to study and work with dancers from more than 37 different Pacific Islands. His extensive research of costumes and dances of the early Hawaiians captures the spirit and essence of this ancient ritual.
His unique style has established the visual standards for hula kahiko. As millions encounter Kim's work everyday, it helps to preserve the hula and enrich lives with his fine art photography.

He studied art at Long Beach State in California and, because he is color-blind, was told to "change majors or be a starving artist". He uses it to his advantage in capturing the subtleties of the kahiko in black and white. Kim's award-winning photography has brought him worldwide recognition and numerous awards.