Inaugural Ola I Ka Pū Hala Weaving Conference

These are among the items included in a collection gathered over the years by lauhala master weaver Pōhaku Kaho‘ohanohano. Photo by Wendy Osher.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel will host its inaugural weaving conference, Ola I Ka Pū Hala, slated to take place in the Kanahele Ballroom on October 17-20, 2018.

Master weavers from across Hawai‘i will share their expertise and unique skills during the four-day cultural event. Students at any ability level, from beginning to advanced, are welcome to participate.

Led by master weaver Pōhaku Kaho‘ohanohano and Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel’s Hawaiian cultural resource specialist, Gayle Miyaguchi, the Ola I Ka Pū Hala Weaving Conference will serve as the first-of-its-kind event on Maui, aligning with the hotel’s dedication to supporting cultural events that preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian traditions.

Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel is also home to the annual Hula O Nā Keiki, a children’s solo hula competition which attracts entrants from around the world, now in its 28th year, held each November.

Hala preparation conducted by master weaver Pōhaku Kaho‘ohanohano. Photo by Wendy Osher.

“At Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel, we recognize the importance of preserving Hawaiian culture for the next generation,” said general manager Mike White. “Weaving is an ancient art form and we are honored to help keep the tradition alive by hosting the first of many Ola I Ka Pū Hala conferences and showcasing the expertise of our dedicated cultural staff.”

Ola I Ka Pū Hala

The phrase “Ola I Ka Pū Hala” tells us that “Life is found in the Pū Hala and we give life to the Pū Hala.”

The Polynesian-introduced pū hala plant has played an important role in Hawaiian life: the seeds and fruits are often used for lei, its roots are used for cordage fiber, and its lau hala (hala leaves) are widely used for mats and pillows.

At the conference, attendees will have the opportunity to choose an option from four different types of weaving: lau hala, ‘ie‘ie , kōkō, and ‘upena.

Commenting on the conference Miyaguchi said, “I am honored to help bring weavers together here on Maui. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the community to experience weaving with true masters of the art.”

While all weaving activities are for registrants only, there will be a craft fair, displays, presentations and a silent auction open to the public.

The deadline to register is August 31, 2018 and will include a one-time fee of $250 that covers daily lunch and dinner on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018.

Registered attendees are encouraged to bring a spray bottle, scissors, a paring knife, and an old towel – all other supplies and project supply kits, ranging from $5 to $85, will be available for purchase from the kumu.

For more information on the inaugural event and for registration, visit: www.mauiweavingconference.com