Ka Ulana Lauhala: "plaiting pandanus leaves"

July 1, 2006-October 31, 2006
Location: Bridge Gallery

This exhibit features the traditional Hawaiian art of weaving pandanus leaves. Come and find out where on the UHM campus pandanus trees are growing. Another display showcases various Hawaiian songs where the pandanus are mentioned - songs like "Hilo Hanakahi," "Na Hala o Naue," and "Makalapua". There are also rare photographs of lauhala weavers dating from 1912 and 1913. Another case shows examples of different weaving patterns and various objects such as hats, bracelets, a lucky frog, and headbands.

Event opening the exhibit:

Highlighting Susan Tokairin's upcoming exhibit, we will be hosting "Ka Ulana Lauhala," an evening celebration of lauhala weaving in Hawaiian tradition and history. Including a weaving demonstration, lauhala exhibit, and lecture by Carol Silva, kumu 'olelo, historian, writer, and weaver.

Carol Silva, Records Management Chief at the Hawai'i State Archives has lectured and taught extensively on the Hawaiian language and history. Honored by the Hawaii Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists in 2001 for her column, "Spirit of Aloha," Silva is also a weaver and long-time member of Ulana Me Ka Lokomaika'i, a lauhala weavers club, whose members are currently featured artists at the 2006 Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.

Ulana me ka lokomaika'i:

Founded by Master Weavers, Aunty Gladys Grace and Uncle Frank Masagatani, Ulana Me Ka Lokomaika'i is one of the most respected weaving clubs on Oahu. Frequently featured at lectures, demonstrations, exhibits, and workshops, club members actively share the inspiration and joy they have found in lauhala weaving with the community. Several club members were featured artists at the Smithsonian Museum's 2006 Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. Long time library staff member and club weaver, Susan Tokairen, volunteered countless hours to design and coordinate the Exhibition - to educate library patrons about the weaving process, and to perhap inspire others to seek the pleasure and joy that she has found in this beautiful Hawaiian tradition.

"This exhibit is dedicated to all weavers, those who learned from their kupuna and to those who learned from their kumu.From an ancient art to modern expression of beauty ulana lauhala live on through the hearts and hands of weavers."