Ni‘ihau Shell Workshops

Ni‘ihau jewelry in the ponapona style

Just in time for Merrie Monarch—and back by popular demand!—master craftsman and artist, Kele Kanahele of the Island of Ni‘ihau, returns to help you create a set of original Ni‘ihau shell jewelry in the breathtaking colors of Ni‘ihau’s native “gems” … and will teach you how to make your own pieces in this ponapona style at the Lyman Museum!  Visit his acclaimed workshop twice in March:

Friday, March 30                                        10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Saturday, March 31                                   10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

On either day you will learn how to make a 22-inch necklace/lei in the new ponapona style, using either black poleho or the more rare honey-gold poleho shells—both augmented with your choice of momi ke‘oke‘o or momi lenalena shells, and your choice of red or pink kahelelani shells!  Earrings and bracelets will be made using both black and honey-gold poleho shells, both momi keokeo and momi lenalena shells, and a choice of red or pink kahelelani shells!  Prices vary according to Museum membership, but are exceptionally reasonable.  You may, of course, create more than one piece, as long as you sign up for specific pieces in advance. 

Space is limited to 24 persons per day; only people who have registered can be permitted in the classroom.  Reservations must be made, pieces and shell colors specified, and the workshop fee(s) paid by Friday, March 23 (deadline extended to March 26), to ensure your place and the availability of shells.  Learn to create these one-of-a-kind treasures of Ni‘ihau from a master—and give a uniquely Hawaiian gift (to yourself, perhaps?)!  

For pricing and other information, please call 935-5021 ext. 101 or stop by the Museum’s Admissions desk.