Museum to host Niihau shell workshops

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Just in time for Merrie Monarch, master shell lei maker Kele Kanahele from the island of Niihau returns to the Lyman Museum to teach this authentic art of Hawaii from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 18-19.

Just in time for Merrie Monarch, master shell lei maker Kele Kanahele from the island of Niihau returns to the Lyman Museum to teach this authentic art of Hawaii from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 18-19.

Kanahele will show how to create a beautiful necklace (lei) and earrings in the kipona style, using an assortment of off-white and yellow momi shells and green, red and pink kahelelani shells.

On either day, participants can learn how to make a 22-inch necklace ($300 for museum members, $310 nonmembers) or a pair of earrings ($85 members, $95 nonmembers) — or more than one piece, as long as you sign up for specific pieces in advance.

Space is limited to 24 people per day; only those who register will be permitted in the classroom.

Reservations must be made, pieces specified and the workshop fee(s) paid by March 17 to ensure a place and the availability of shells.

Learn to create these treasures of Niihau from a master.

The Lyman Museum is located at 276 Haili St. in Hilo. For more information, call 935-5021, ext. 101, or stop by the museum’s admissions desk.