Wala'au with Umialiloalahanauokalakaua "Umi" King Kai

Master Craftsman Umialiloalahanauokalakaua "Umi" King Kai, in response to the question, "How old were you when you first started crafting Native Hawaiian cultural items?" shares his story in our video interview. Born and raised in Kaimuki, O?ahu, Umi Kai explains that he began crafting Hawaiian implements in 1967, while still in high school. Now with over five decades of experience, Umi Kai reflects on his journey from those early days to becoming a renowned master craftsman known for his fishing tools, kapa-making implements, poi pounders, hula accessories, and especially traditional Hawaiian weaponry.

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