Collection: Creative Journey Workshops

Join artist Shelley Hoist for a transformative 4+ day Creative Journey Workshop in Hawaiian Palm Fiber Art in her private studio in Kealakekua, on Hawaiʻi Island.
With over 30 years of experience—and the past 15 devoted solely to this unique medium—Shelley's work is collected internationally, won awards in and out of state and she's created everything from baskets to large-scale sculptures and ceremonial (resting) vessels. Now, for the first time, she's opening up her process to a small group ready to explore their own creativity with natural materials.

No prior experience or artistic background is needed. Just a desire to create. This hands-on workshop is for those seeking a deep, personal connection to art and nature—through the fiber of native Hawaiian palms. You'll learn proprietary techniques she's developed over decades, but this workshop is designed for personal exploration, not commercial replication. This workshop runs rain or shine, as Hawaii is a dynamic environment and being in nature is part of the process and experience.

Workshop Fee: $1,200 (non-refundable)
Includes all materials, 4+ days of instruction, daily lunches, morning coffee/muffins, and a closing show-and-share event. Class is limited to 4 students and you will go home with at least one basket and one vessel, with most students creating at least 4 pieces. Minimum of 3 people must be met before class is confirmed. All classes are taught by Shelley Hoist.

Lunch (from the organic garden below the studio) is served daily in the beautiful courtyard.

CLASSES COMING UP IN AUGUST, OCTOBER AND DECEMBER OF 2025

✨ WHAT TO EXPECT

Day 1 (Monday):
Welcome, overview, and morning harvest expedition to a private palm fiber gathering site. Demonstration of first basket forming and hands-on introduction to fiber prep, tools, and stitching and knotting techniques. 

Day 2 (Tuesday):
Studio day. Learn to manipulate and sculpt palm fiber into two forms, the basket and the standing vessels. Begin drying process and consider embellishments.

Day 3 (Wednesday – Optional, but super fun):
A flexible day: relax, explore, or return to the studio to continue creating or experiment with surface decoration techniques like mark-making and marbled paper painting while learning important drying techniques.

Day 4 (Thursday):
Your pieces begin to come to life. Explore personal symbolism, add embellishments (bring meaningful items from home if you'd like), and start finishing touches.

Day 5 (Friday):
Final finishes, photos, and a joyful "Show and Share" celebration with refreshments, guests, and story telling.

Class fee includes:

• All materials and tools
• 4+ days of guided instruction and creative exploration
• Daily lunches, snacks, coffee/muffins
• Harvesting field trip (transportation included)
• High quality photos of your pieces and optional group show and celebration
• Access to a private Facebook group (Creative Journey Continues) for continued support and connection
• Eligibility for future advanced workshops (Historic Australian Water Carrying Basket, Handled Pieces, Wall Vessels) and Open Studio opportunities

Spaces are very limited—only 4 participants per session. Secure your spot below by selecting which session works best for your travel plans. Call or email with any questions.

ALL AVAILABLE CLASSES LISTED BELOW

Hiking into the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary at 3500' elevation to forage for palm sheath fibers.

Excited about the treasures we found, now back to the studio!