BEHIND THE ART: MOLOKAI 2 OAHU 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Introducing the official artwork for the 2024 Molokai 2 Oahu – the storied 32 mile race across the Kaiwi Channel – commissioned by FLORENCE & created by artist, Jack Soren.

As the official apparel sponsors for the event, we’re honored to support this incredible feat of oceanic endurance, and to work with Jack on this special commemorative gear.

When & how did you get your start as an artist?

Coming from a family of artists and entrepreneurs, I was always surrounded by creative energy. I was able to express any and explore all creative curiosities as a child with the support of my family. I realized at a young age that art was a passion that I enjoyed more than all my other hobbies. I was getting better at it as I practiced drawing my favorite t.v. show characters.

My older cousin introduced me to graffiti during middle school and that's where I found my path as an artist. Running around the island with my friends, finding walls to spray, and exploring parts of the island most locals would never have a reason to go to. Graffiti is freedom. As I got older, I came to a point where I needed to consider a career and what better career than to do something I love everyday. I developed a style that would translate well to large scale paintings such as murals. It was an easy transition from painting large graffiti pieces. Since then art has been my voice and my vehicle that has taken me around the world, pushed my boundaries, and provided income to take care of my family. I've been living out my childhood dream being a full time artist.

What does the Molokai 2 Oahu race mean to you?

The Molokai 2 Oahu event brings back nostalgic memories of my cousins and I playing on the beach, eating our favorite snacks, and playing our gameboys waiting for Uncle Guy Pere to enter the last leg of the race. When he got closer to shore we would all get our lei's ready and splash water celebrating his accomplishment as one of the best to ever do it. It was so inspiring to see my ohana take on such a daring journey.

When I got the call to consider having me do the artwork for the 2024 event I accepted immediately without knowing any of the conditions. This would be a way to honor my ohana who has dedicated years of paddling to this race.

SHOP THE COLLECTION

The art looks incredible, and really captures the intensity of the race. What was your creative approach for this 2024 event art?

Mahalo! As I mentioned this was inspired by my ohana, I'm just helping tell their story visually. But this artwork specifically is meant for the next generation who made history in 2023. Toa Pere, son of Guy Pere, at 14 years old is the youngest participant to complete the Molokai 2 Oahu event. That's powerful. Toa was my inspiration for this artwork. I referenced him as the hero navigating through the Ka'iwi Channel.

Is there any symbolism or significance in elements of the work that you'd like the viewer to take away?

The Iwa bird, being our Ali'i or "leaders" will fly above and guide us. Our ohana will be on the boat assisting us and cheering us on as our support. A petroglyph figure shown as our ancestors who paddle alongside us giving us strength.

Is this your first time creating art for the Molokai 2 Oahu race?

Yes, this is my first time creating artwork for the event. It's pretty cool how things come full circle.

When you're painting for a historical event like this, does your creative process differ from your usual approach to your art?