Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture and Design announces in partnership with two-time Nā Hōku Hanohano award winner, Taimane Gardner, the release of her newest single and music video, “Serpentwined”. The Hawai‘i-born, Samoan singer-songwriter and ʻukulele virtuoso drew inspiration from the center’s historic collection of global Islamic art during her residency in the summer of 2024.

Taimane was selected as Shangri La’s summer 2024 Artist-in-Residence, immersing herself in the mythology of Shahmaran, the legendary serpent queen of Indo-Iranian and Turkic folklore. Inspired by the themes of devotion, betrayal, and redemption that define the Shahmaran’s tale, Taimane intertwined this mythology with that of Kalamainuʻu, the Hawaiian mo‘o wahine (lizard woman) to create a mesmerizing music video that bridges these distant, yet kindred narratives bound by love and fractured betrayal.

“It is a privilege to work with Shangri La and unlock stories of such powerful female icons that have survived generations,” said Taimane. “I am often inspired by human connection, the elements and cultural histories, as well as the parallels between my home culture and the Middle East. I hope that this song embodies the strength of Kalamainau‘u and Shahmaran and shares their stories with a wider audience.”

Through the center’s signature Artist-in-Residence program, Shangri La elevates local and global conversations through various art forms and deepened community engagement by hosting artists, cultural producers, and thought leaders from around the world each year. The Shangri La Residency Program brings contemporary artists into dialogue with its historic collection, offering a space where the past and present merge to spark new artistic vision.

“We are honored that Shangri La serves as a source of inspiration for acclaimed artists and collaborators like Taimane to share her creativity and talent of mele,” said Ben Weitz, executive director of Shangri La. “It was a highlight of the year to host Taimane for her residency at the center and to be part of her storytelling through ‘Serpentwinedʻ.”

Taimane’s residency demonstrates Shangri La’s role as a center for culture, connection and community–a place where creativity and inspiration come to life. Taimane’s creative exploration highlights universal storytelling, showing audience members how music and visual art revive ancient legends and continue to inspire us. “Serpentwined” will be available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music, with the official music video premiering on Taimane’s website and YouTube channel.