Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 13, Number 7, 1 July 1996 — Kona-style weavers gather on the Big Island [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Kona-style weavers gather on the Big Island

'Aha No'eau represents one of the OHA culture office's core programs. A series of statewide eonferences on different Hawaiian art forms, the program is designed to convene cultural practitioners from across the state to share ideas, help with networking and work toward the development of future culture centers. Last May, 'Aha No'eau activities included support of a Big Island lauhala weavers workshop. The workshop, whieh was organized by Kupuna Elizabeth Lee, grew out of Lee's eoneem that the art of lauhala weaving, particularly tjie Kona style, was being lost. She wanted to convene craftsmen who originated from Kona and have them share their skills and expertise. The workshop, held at the Keauhou Beach Hotel

in Kailua-Kona, brought together 41 kumu and approximately 200 students. Participants eame from all over the state as well as Califomia, Alaska and Washington state. The workshop featured weaving instruction for all levels and provided opportunities for informal discussions between teachers. Classes were scheduled throughout the four days with kumu rotating so that they would be able to have rest periods. OHA provided assistance for air, lodging and meals for 40 kumu. OHA also assisted with group discussions and on-site logistics. OHA Culture Officer Pikake Pelekai says the workshop was well received. "Everyone walked away with something. The festival generated a lot of support."

Lauhala weavers conference hone their skills at an OHAsupported weavers workshop on the Big lsland.