About the Workshop
Explore the traditional art of kapa-making using the inner bark of the ʻulu (breadfruit) tree.
Participants will be making a Kihei (known in Tahitian as an Ahuʻfara). An ahuʻfara is a beaten bark cloth (tapa) historically worn as a beautiful shoulder shawl or cape. Please note that the kihei created during this session will be left undecorated, honoring the natural texture and beauty of the pounded bark.
Through hands-on learning, participants will discover how ʻulu bark is prepared and transformed into kapa while gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural relationships among people, plants, and place.
About the Instructor: Wesley Sen
Wesley Sen has been working with Hawaiian Kapa for over 40 years. His deep knowledge is rooted in tradition, having been trained by the renowned Mary J. Pritchard of American Samoa in Siapo Samoa. Wesley is a dedicated educator who has been teaching Kapa making at the Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden for over 20 years.
Gallery
Examples of the traditional Kapa-making process.
Event Details
- Comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting dirty
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
Secure your spot today.
Location
Amy B.H. GreenwellEthnobotanical Garden
82-6160 Hawaii Belt Rd
Captain Cook, HI 96704
Parking Instructions
Please park on the Nursery side of the garden. The visitor center parking will be occupied by the Kona Green Market, and the walk-in gates on that end will be closed. Signs will be posted around Amyʻs house to help guide you.