Our Story

ABOUT WANA

Aloha kākouA little about WanaStarted by Chris Sandy, The Wana Sea (aka Wana Creative) is a visual communications resource based in Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island, serving community across the island chain. As a lifelong entrepreneur with experience building a collection of successful businesses, many with an emphasis on environmentalism and quality branding, Chris brings his experience and creative network to help uplift the brands, people, causes, and ideas that make Hawaiʻi such a special place.

Wana's offerings include photography, design, strategic brand consulting, and creative direction. From small independent collaborations to multi million dollar brands we treat everyone with the same professionalism and commitment to quality. If you'd like to discuss a project, business goal, or creative concept—call or message us—we promise to review your endeavor with care and consideration.

Why Wana?

An animal that knows how to get to the point.

Sharp, independent, and soft on the inside—the Wana (sea urchin in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi—pronounced /vah-nah/) have always been one of my favorite sea creatures. Known by some as a pointed reminder of the ocean’s natural defenses, the Wana’s beautiful design and purposeful structure are a unique source of inspiration. Every spine has a job. Every movement is intentional. And beneath the exterior is something surprisingly delicate, intelligent, and essential to the reef.That contrast is what resonates. Good creative work should protect what matters, cut through noise, and still leave room for depth and nuance. Wana Creative takes the same approach—clear, thoughtful, and built with purpose. We’re not here to overcomplicate things or soften ideas until they lose meaning. We aim to create work that’s honest, well-crafted, and strong enough to stand on its own—all while supporting the ecosystems, stories, and communities it belongs to.

—Chris Sandy

A heartfelt acknowledgment and note of gratitude to the many people—past and present—who have helped nurture Wana into existence. From the models who have collaborated with us, to the businesses that saw our creative potential early on, and the community of creatives we work alongside every day, mahalo nui loa for your kōkua.If you are a Hawaiʻi-based creative interested in working with Wana, or in attending our growing Sunday virtual workshop gatherings—where we hui up to share, learn, and help develop each other’s work across a wide spectrum of media—we’d love to hear from you. Message us to explore ways to get involved.

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