Roen's receipt of this National Heritage Fellowship is truly an affirmation of ka hana kapa as a living, breathing part of Hawaiʻi's cultural heritage. It is also a confirmation of the strength of legacy within families. Roen's mother Marie Leilehua McDonald received a National Heritage Fellowship in 1990 for her efforts to preserve and advance the art of Hawaiian lei-making. In the 1970s, Marie began a collaboration with a group of dedicated artisans to research kapa techniques, natural dyes and tools in order to bring kapa back to life and establish its community relevance. It is this legacy of shared effort that Marie handed onto Roen, and Roen continues to advance.
This exhibition will feature the work of over 30 artists who have worked alongside Roen in her Waimea-area wauke patches and studio- nurturing and harvesting trees, processing materials, beating kapa, and creating their artwork. The knowledge shared will assure a strong foundation for kapa making to thrive for generations to come.
Featured Artists:
Verna Takashima, John Koga, Lynn Martin Graton, RD Manzano, Elizabeth Kaholowi, Dalani Tanahy, Kaiulani DeSilva, Suzi Watson, Onaona Pomroy Maly, Puakea Forester, Anela Oh, Mary Sakamoto, Dawn Oh, Ava Williams, Lisa Rodondi, Kaʻaiohelo, Annika Berezney, Avalon Paradea, Amanda Rieux, Mary Milelzchik, Janice Mason, Kili Correa, Koa Chang, Gay Covington, Krista Skeehan, Waimakalani Iona
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