Guest Blog By Niles Deneen • March 14, 2025
How It All Started
Our partnership with Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association (HPPA) began when Kim Olsen discovered Deneen Pottery at a public lands conference. She was drawn to our commitment to handcrafted quality, sustainability, and supporting public lands. Kim saw an opportunity to pair our work with Haleakalā National Park’s rich natural and cultural heritage, leading to the creation of a custom mug featuring the park’s most iconic symbols—the silversword plant and the nēnē goose.
The Creative Process
Designing the Haleakalā mug was more than just about aesthetics—it was about telling a story. The silversword plant, found only on the slopes of Haleakalā Volcano, symbolizes the park’s fragile and rare ecosystem. The nēnē goose, the Hawaiʻi State Bird, reflects the park’s successful conservation efforts.
Kim’s input throughout the process ensured that the final product was true to the park’s identity. Her expertise and creative eye helped us strike a balance between artistry and authenticity. The result was a mug that not only looks stunning but also carries the essence of Haleakalā National Park.
The Impact on Visitors
One of the most rewarding aspects of this partnership has been seeing how visitors respond to the Haleakalā National Park mug. Kim has shared stories of park guests expressing excitement when they discover the mug in the gift shop. For many visitors, the mug becomes a tangible reminder of their experience at Haleakalā National Park—a connection to the park’s beauty that they can take home with them.
The mug has also become a symbol of the park’s conservation mission. Every sale supports the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association and their efforts to protect Haleakalā National Park's unique ecosystem. It’s gratifying to know that our work contributes to preserving the park for future generations.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue working with Kim and HPPA. Our commitment to supporting national parks remains stronger than ever. We’re already exploring new designs and creative ways to honor the park’s rich cultural and natural history.
Kim’s passion and expertise have made this partnership one of the most meaningful in Deneen Pottery’s history. Her dedication to Haleakalā National Park’s preservation inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of our craft. We’re proud to play a small part in the park’s story—and we can’t wait to see where this partnership takes us next.
Why National Parks Matter to Deneen Pottery
At Deneen Pottery, we’ve always held a deep respect for America’s national parks. These protected spaces represent the country’s natural beauty, history, and culture. Our National Park Series mugs are a tribute to these treasured places and the people who work tirelessly to preserve them.
Creating a mug that reflects the park’s uniqueness reminded us why we do what we do. National parks are more than destinations—they are symbols of preservation and stewardship. Every mug we create for a national park tells a piece of that story.
A Growing Partnership
Beyond Haleakalā National Park, our work with national parks has expanded to include dozens of other protected areas across the country. Each park presents a unique creative challenge and an opportunity to celebrate America’s natural heritage.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on our journey with Hawaiʻi Pacific Park Association, it’s clear that this partnership represents more than just a business relationship—it’s a shared commitment to art, conservation, and storytelling. The Haleakalā National Park mug stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of preserving America’s national treasures.
Kim, thank you for your vision and dedication. To the visitors who have taken a piece of Haleakalā National Park home with them, thank you for supporting this mission. And to the national parks across the country—thank you for inspiring us every day.
For more on our Haleakalā National Park mug and other National Park Series designs, visit Deneen Pottery.
Browse the current online selection of HPPA mugs.
Learn more about HPPA partner Haleakalā National Park.