Hawaii Feather Lei Workshops Come to Camarillo
The art of Lei Hulu, the feather lei, is one of the oldest and most traditional art forms in Hawaiian culture. It symbolizes the spirit of Hawaii and is often a sign of respect, dignity, and strength. Feather lei were once made for high-ranking Hawaiian ali'i (chiefs). These lei, cloaks, capes and helmets were worn only by a select few who held certain positions of authority.
The tradition of making feather lei is a highly respected art in Hawaii, as it is considered to be a skill that requires patience and time. Today, there are many respected kupuna (traditionally trained) lei hulu makers who still invest their time and aloha into this art form.
One such kupuna was Aunty Mary Kahihilani Duarte Kovich (1915-1995) originally from Hawi on Hawai’I island who moved to Southern California in 1963. Her love and education in lei hulu began when she became a member of the Hawai’i Daughter’s Guild of California in 1972 and was honored to have been taught by Master Kumu Hulu Aunty Mary Lou Kekuewa. After years of learning, Aunty Mary was given the distinction of being one of the first Master Kumu Hulu on the continent.
The ancient art did not exist on the continent amongst the Hawaiian community and was in danger of becoming lost in the islands as well. Therefore, in 1979 Aunty Mary founded Lei Hulu of California. Through her love for her and her teaching of this Hawaiian art she has inspired new generations of haumana (students) in the traditional and contemporary art of feather lei making. The ancient art of Lei Hulu lives on because of Aunty Mary’s dream to perpetuate the exquisite and beautiful art of Hawai’I’s Ali’i.
Today Aunty Mary’s granddaughter Kumu Hulu Mele Kahalepuna Chun continues the tradition of Lei Hulu in the islands and on the continent teaching the art of making feather lei and has opened the door to the public to learn this wonderful and important skill.
In association with Lei Hulu of California she shares her knowledge with new generations and are a great inspiration to the Hawaiian hulu maker community. The Sandwich Islands Social Network is pleased to produce a two day workshop provided by Lei Hulu of California, taught by Kumu Hulu Mele Kahalepuna Chun and hosted by Kumu Hula Rona Koe and Halau Hula O Pualanina’auali’ioha of Camarillo, California.
This rare opportunity to learn Hawaiian feather lei making in Ventura County presents itself on October 14th and 15th in Camarillo at the Freedom Center. More details about this wonderful weekend immersed in legendary Hawaiian feather making is coming!
A fun evening of music and hula happens on Saturday, October 14th after hulu class! Kanikapila and Ukulele Jam session featuring Lorien and Da Band along with anyone who would like to join in! More on that coming too!