Local natural fiber artist Shelley Hoist was recently awarded “Best of Show” for her piece, “Hookumu” at Kahilu Theatre’s “Art Off the Wall” exhibit.
Local natural fiber artist Shelley Hoist was recently awarded “Best of Show” for her piece, “Hookumu” at Kahilu Theatre’s “Art Off the Wall” exhibit.
The exhibit featuring 3-D work in any medium continues through April 17. The exhibit is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as during shows at the Waimea-based theater.
“Hookumu” is the largest palm sheath sculpture Hoist has created and represents the Big Island’s natural elements in a big way as the vessel stands almost 3 feet high and 2 feet wide. It has a base of native koa and a wild, mature Hawaiian mouflon ram skull nestled into a silk lined vessel made from two gigantic sculpted Alexander palm sheaths.
The vessel is hand-stitched with waxed linen, and embellished with benery and ringneck pheasant feathers, dried sago palm flowers with an amber chip studded leather trim. The skull is adorned with a large tiger eye cabochon trimmed in more amber chips.
Hookumu means “the beginning” in Hawaiian and in addition to being the beginning sign of the zodiac, the ram is an important animal symbol in many current and ancient cultures. Honoring the ram’s qualities and symbolism, this piece’s intention represents action, initiative and determination. According to Hoist, it was created to remind us that every day is a new beginning, in which we are given the opportunity to trust in our own power and strength, our energy to act and our ability to balance as we climb.
Hoist has been working in sustainable palm sheath fiber for more than 15 years, and has also shown and been awarded for her work on the mainland. She has been working in a new direction in creating specific intentions with her innovative sculptures.
Hoist’s work can be found online at www.shelleyhoist.com, the monthly Kokua Village Stroll, in Holualoa Gallery and at her studio by calling 937-1774 to schedule an appointment or for more information.