Ipu Heke: Form and Function and especially Making (plus other instruments) with B. Ka‘imiloa Chrisman, M.D.
SAT APR 5 2025
Afternoon session (1:00 pm - 3:00 pm)
This one-of-a-kind presentation is especially for Kumu Hula, their Alaka‘i and their Hālau artisans – those most likely to use and pass on this knowledge.
Complimentary
*For planning purposes we are unable to provide a complimentary bento lunch for anyone registering after March 29. Mahalo for your understanding.
Ka‘imiloa will speak on the making of various instruments of Hula Kahiko, but with a special focus on Ipu Heke, which is often made rather simplistically today. Participants are encouraged to bring their ipu heke for discussion. Powerpoint teaching will maximize the learning time, and topics will include why true Hawaiian ipu are so much better than some from growers on the Continent. The how and why will be shown of matching the ipu pair, preserving the ipu beforehand, smoothing the inside, precise joining, fitting a fixed handle to the lower ipu, hole size of both ipu, crafting of a 3-piece Ipu Heke, and sewn-on top as an option. There will be time for questions on any cultural topic at the end.
Ka‘imiloa will also share a Hawaiian worldview of ipu and tell of his long experience crafting traditional ipu heke and studying old ones in museums and photographs from the past.
*Due to a wonderful response and the fact that we have limited parking, participants are strongly encouraged to either carpool or get dropped off. Once our parking lot is full, overflow will need to find street parking. This can be found on Hillside Avenue, off Cooper Road, or Ka‘aipu Avenue off O'ahu Avenue.
This special presentation is made possible with funding provided by Hawai‘i Tourism Authority through the Kūkulu Ola Program.