KAANAPALI – Kaanapali Beach Hotel announced that its inaugural weaving conference, Ola I Ka Pu Hala, is slated to take place in the Kanahele Ballroom on Oct. 17-20, 2018.

Master weavers from all over Hawaii 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 Pohaku Kaho’ohanohano and Kaanapali Beach Hotel’s Hawaiian cultural resource specialist, Gayle Miyaguchi, the 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.

Kaanapali Beach Hotel is home to the annual Hula O Na Keiki, a children’s solo hula competition that attracts entrants from around the world, now in its 28th year, held each November.

“At Kaanapali 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 Pu Hala conferences and showcasing the expertise of our dedicated cultural staff.”

The phrase “Ola I Ka P? Hala” means that “Life is found in the pu hala, and we give life to the pu hala.” The Polynesian-introduced pu 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 , koko, 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 Aug. 31 and includes a one-time fee of $250 that covers daily lunch and dinner on Saturday, Oct. 20.

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.