Artist-in-Residence Holds Open Studio for Visitors in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

Kilauea, HI, April 27, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s current Artist-in-Residence, Rick Makanaaloha Kia'imeaokekanaka San Nicolas, is back. This accomplished feather artist invites visitors to join him during his residency, effective immediately, from 10 AM to 3 PM Mondays through Fridays, April 20th through May 16th.

The artist will also participate in the park’s upcoming BioBlitz and Biodiversity & Cultural Festival on Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16, 2015. The BioBlitz is part scientific endeavor, part outdoor classroom excursion and part celebration of biodiversity and culture. It will bring together more than 150 leading scientists and traditional Hawaiian cultural practitioners, more than 750 students and thousands from the general public. During the event, visitors may visit the Artist’s Studio in the lobby of the 1932 Administration Building (also known as the Ohi`a Wing) to learn first-hand about the fascinating and sacred practice of Hawaiian Featherwork, Hawaiian birds and bird catchers.

Rick Makanaaloha Kia‘imeaokekanaka San Nicolas was recently bestowed the honored title of Ke Kumu Hulu Nui, meaning "Feather Master of Ancient Hawaiian Featherwork" by Kaha‘i Topolinski. This is a great honor to him and he will hold that title for many years to come and carry on the traditions that are entrusted to him. Early on, Rick knew that his calling was to learn from the most noted Hawaiian experts of this heritage art. Rick’s featherwork is done in the spirit of Old Hawai‘i as he replicates the work of ancient Hawaiian masters whose finely crafted regalia were worn by Hawaiian Royalty and warriors. He has honed his featherwork through research, talking to kupuna (honored elders), listening intently to all who want to share their story, traditions and process. Through their dedication, he is able to position himself to help perpetuate the art of feather lei making for generations to come.

The National Parks Arts Foundation, now in its second year of working with Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, coordinates the park’s Artist-in-Residence program. His work is currently on exhibit at the park’s Volcano House. NPAF is currently looking for talented artists of all kinds to apply for its’ December 2015 residency at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park as well as others offered at other National Park locations. Apply and learn more about these Artist Residencies here: http://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/#!apply-/c1as3

As part of the residency contribution to the National Parks Service, Rick donated an original limited reproduction feather lei to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The original lei was crafted with great memories as it was used to adorn the ‘umeke (traditional gourd urn) which held the remains of Uncle George Lanakilakekiahialiʻi Na'ope.

The National Parks Arts Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 supported by all sorts of donations from the public. To help fund upcoming artist-in-residences in a number of parks, please call 505-715-6492 or send an email to admin@nationalparksartsfoundation.org Visit http://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org for more information.
Contact
National Parks Arts Foundation
Cecilia Wainright
505-715-6492
nationalparksartsfoundation.org
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