For the first time ever, community members will have the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind Ni‘ihau shell lei that traditionally is made and worn by men for very special occasions such as weddings or hula halau performances.
For the first time ever, community members will have the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind Ni‘ihau shell lei that traditionally is made and worn by men for very special occasions such as weddings or hula halau performances.
Kele Kanahele of Ni‘ihau will teach the authentic creation of these rarely seen pieces twice in August — Friday, Aug. 15, and Saturday, Aug. 16 — from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lyman Museum.
On either day, participants will learn how to make an 18-inch necklace/lei ($380 for museum members, $410 for nonmembers), or a pair of earrings for ladies ($105 for members, $130 for nonmembers) — or more than one piece, as long as you sign up for specific pieces in advance.
All pieces will be created in the pikake style, using alilea keokeo shells (white). The alilea is known as the large dove shell because it closely resembles but is slightly larger than the better-known momi, or dove, shell. Such lei are rarely made because piercing is very difficult because of the thickness of the shell. For the earrings, much smaller shells will be used to create pieces appropriate for ladies.
Space is limited to 24 persons per day; only people who registered can be permitted in the classroom. Reservations must be made, pieces specified and workshop fees paid by Friday, Aug. 8, to ensure your place and the availability of shells.
For more information or to register, call 935-5021 or stop by the museum’s admissions desk.