Hawaiian Braiding

Master Craftsmen Umialiloalahanauokalakaua King Kai teaches traditional Hawaiian braiding Born and raised in Kaimuki , Oahu. Number 6 of 7 children of Douglas AW Kai of Waiahinu, Moku o Hawaii and Rachel K. King of Waimea, Moku o Hawaii. Attended public schools and received a B.S. Degree in Marketing at Chaminade University of Honolulu. Married for 47 years to Janice Leinaala Lua of Laie. 3 sons, 1 daughter and 14 grandchildren. Retired from the Visitor Industry in November 2016 after 49 years. Started making Hawaiian implements in high school in 1967 and continues today. Has worked on projects for Bishop Museum, Peabody Museum, Cook Museum, Hula Museum in Japan and many private collectors of Hawaiian artifacts. He fashions implements for fishing, kapa making, poi pounding, hula, and farming, and he is best known for his traditional weaponry. Umi Kai shares his knowledge and experiences with people locally and internationally, and he makes presentations regularly at schools, hotels, and organizations. Has conducted and participated in traditional Makahiki protocol and images for over 25 years for Queen Liliuokalani Trust, Pa Ku’i a Lua, Hale Mua o Kealii, Waikiki Aqurium, Bishop Museum and more. Currently President of Aha Kane; Olohe Lua of Pa Kui A Lua; Kupuna of Hale Mua o Kualii; Member of Na Lehua Kumakua. Awards: Ho’okahiko Award from Dukes 2019 Na Mamo Makamae o ka Po’e Hawai’I ( Living Treasure of the Hawaiian People) Awardee 2019 Living Treasure 2018 by Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawai’i MAMo Awardee 2017 by the PA’I Foundation Educator of the Year 2016 by Native Hawaiian Education Association Fellowship Award 2015 by Native Arts and Culture Foundation Masters Program 1998 by Hawai’i State Culture and the Arts

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