Try your hand at making traditional crafts rooted in Hawaiian culture and buy handmade gifts from native artisans for the holidays!
The Our Kaka‘ako Hawaiian Crafts Workshop will offer four simultaneous classes with six (6) participants each. You’ll learn how to make kapa designs, ʻohe kāpala, lauhala bracelets, or braid cords for necklaces or multiple uses. Plus, learn about the cultural significance of these handmade crafts.
Each two-hour class requires a $10 registration fee + service fees. Please sign up for one class only! Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Update: All classes have been filled.
Mahalo for your interest! You are welcome to observe the classes and purchase DIY craft kits to make at home.
Our Kumu (Teachers)
Dalani Tanahy
An over 25-year practitioner and teacher of kapa (barkcloth) making, Dalani Tanahy enjoys its challenges and views each unique piece with fresh eyes influenced by ancestral sensibilities. The multifaceted craft requires knowledge of horticulture, wood and stone tool-making, the science of natural dyes and fermentation, and above all the patience to fashion the inner layer of tree bark into a soft, pliable material.
Update: Unfortunately, Kumu Dalani is unable to join us on Saturday due to an emergency. Kumu Wes Sen will be teaching the kapa design class in her place.
Nalu Andrade
Nalu Andrade is an O‘ahu-born Native Hawaiian and longtime cultural practitioner who specializes in kālai lā‘au (traditional wood carving). Through his business Na Maka Kahiko, he sells hand-carved ‘ohe kāpala earrings, hair picks, stamps, and many other pieces of wearable art. He also shares his mana‘o (knowledge) with people around the world through online workshops.
Mahina & Cheryl Pukahi
Early in their relationship as a couple, Mahina and Cheryl Pukahi began their journey in weaving by learning to work with different Polynesian plant fibers, such as lauhala (pandanus), and lau niu (coconut). Now more than 20 years later, these Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners share their intricate weaving preparation and techniques with the community, carrying on the tradition of their kūpuna (elders).
Gordon ‘Umialiloalahanauokalakaua (‘Umi) Kai
‘Umi Kai started making Hawaiian implements and tools in high school and continues to refine and teach the traditions to others over 50 years later. The Native Hawaiian artist is highly regarded as a cultural authority and has worked on projects through his company, Ulu Pono Designs, for Bishop Museum, Peabody Museum, Cook Museum, Hula Museum in Japan, and many private collectors of Hawaiian artifacts.
Sponsored by:
As a community benefit, the Kaiāulu ‘o Kaka‘ako Owners Association is wholly sponsoring a series of cultural events, workshops, activities, and performances that will feature Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander artists, artisans, music, films, and more. This Hawaiian Crafts Workshop & Sale is the first in the series.
