Overview
This rich photographic collection celebrates the majestic beauty that some of the most vital members of our natural environment-the trees-have brought to the diverse habitats and landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands.Through stunning scenic shots and artful close-ups, author and photographer Jim Wageman introduces readers to the extraordinary variety of trees that may be found within Hawai'i's unique ecological system. Experience exquisite endemic and indigenous species that journeyed to the islands on the wind or ocean currents or with migrating birds. These are the trees that first faced the need to adapt to a harsh new environment and the subsequent arrival of man, yet they have been able to survive and endure, if often perilously, in today's world. Learn about the Polynesian-introduced species, or "canoe plants" brought to the islands by the first settlers over a millennium and a half ago and embraced by those ancient Hawaiians as essential physical and spiritual components of their daily lives. Delight in the grandeur of some of the many post-contact species that have brought a broad diversity to the flora of these islands.
Whether highlighting the radiant play of light on the leaves of a neleau tree or capturing a breathtaking view of the rain forest, the images of Sublime Beauty showcases these magnificent trees - both native and alien - that continue to play crucial roles within Hawai'i's delicate balance of nature even as they enhance the islands.
Synopsis
This rich photographic collection celebrates the majestic beauty that some of the most vital members of our natural environment-the trees-have brought to the diverse habitats and landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands.
Through stunning scenic shots and artful close-ups, author and photographer Jim Wageman introduces readers to the extraordinary variety of trees that may be found within Hawai'i's unique ecological system. Experience exquisite endemic and indigenous species that journeyed to the islands on the wind or ocean currents or with migrating birds. These are the trees that first faced the need to adapt to a harsh new environment and the subsequent arrival of man, yet they have been able to survive and endure, if often perilously, in today's world. Learn about the Polynesian-introduced species, or "canoe plants" brought to the islands by the first settlers over a millennium and a half ago and embraced by those ancient Hawaiians as essential physical and spiritual components of their daily lives. Delight in the grandeur of some of the many post-contact species that have brought a broad diversity to the flora of these islands.
Whether highlighting the radiant play of light on the leaves of a neleau tree or capturing a breathtaking view of the rain forest, the images of Sublime Beauty showcases these magnificent trees - both native and alien - that continue to play crucial roles within Hawai'i's delicate balance of nature even as they enhance the islands.