MEDIA RELEASE

For the very first time ever, men (and women too!) 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 a wedding, or a hula hālau performance.

Lei created from `alilea shells

At the Lyman Museum, Kele Kanahele of the Island of Ni‘ihau will teach the authentic creation of these rarely seen pieces of Ni‘ihau heritage for the first time anywhere, twice in August on Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On either day you may learn how to make an18-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 ke‘oke`o shells (white). The ‘alilea is known as the large dove shell because it closely resembles but is slightly larger (about ¾ inch long) than the better-known momi or dove shell. Such lei are rarely made because piercing is very difficult due to 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 have registered can be permitted in the classroom. Reservations must be made, pieces specified, and the workshop fee(s) paid by Friday, August 8, to ensure your place and the availability of shells. Space is limited to 24 persons per day; only people who have registered can be permitted in the classroom.

Kāne, follow in the footsteps of generations of Ni‘ihau men by creating and wearing this classic lei on important occasions of your own! And wāhine, these pieces will look just as lovely on you … or you can give your special someone a treasure of Hawai‘i that shows everyone he’s a treasure too! For more information or to register, please call 935-5021 or stop by the Museum’s Admissions desk. The Lyman Museum is located at 276 Haili St in Hilo and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 am – 4:30 pm.