Join award winning fiber artist Shelley Hoist August 18th through 22nd for a transformative 4+ day Creative Journey Workshop in Hawaiian Palm Fiber Art at her private studio in Kealakekua, on Hawaiʻi Island.
With over 30 years of experience—and the past 15 devoted solely to this unique medium—her work is collected internationally, has won awards in and out of state and created everything from baskets to large-scale sculptures and ceremonial (resting) vessels. Now, for the first time, she's opening up her studio, home and 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 Shelley has 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.
Lunch (from the organic garden below the studio) is served daily in the beautiful courtyard.
✨ WHAT TO EXPECT
Day 1 (Monday) August 18, 2025:
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) August 19, 2025:
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): August 20, 2025:
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) August 21, 2025:
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) August 22, 2025:
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. Email or call to reserve your place!