Meet the Founder

Alooo!

I’m Keren Encarnación, a Puerto Rican textile and print designer, and the founder and designer of Khenalu. Growing up on an island has deeply influenced my work as an artist. When I was a child, I imagined a world where islanders were dressed in vibrant, tropical colors and smelled like coconuts, mangos, or pineapples—each person chose their "forever" scent. Their days were filled with endless beach adventures and a deep connection to the land and sea.

Exploring my own culture and the rich traditions of other island cultures excites me to no end. I’m an endlessly curious person, always learning. I dive deep into the origins of things—where they come from, how they’re made, what people think about them, and how they make us feel. Through my art, I explore island cultures, their history, values, and environments. I combine bright colors, textures, and prints to create a visual story that transports you to a tropical paradise, evoking joy and excitement.

I can’t believe I’m finally sharing this incredible project with you. It’s a dream come true to bring this world that’s lived inside me since I was a little girl into reality. I hope you love it as much as I do! This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see you live your best tropical life with Khenalu—whether you're chasing sunsets, shredding waves, or enjoying life by the sea.

Con mucho cariño, Bienvenidos a la vida en el Trópico —  With much love, Welcome to a Tropical State of Mind.
Keren Encarnación