Volcano Art Center presents Hula Voices at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. These free, educational offerings present an engaging, intimate “talk story” session with Hawaiʻi Island’s kumu hula who eat, sleep and live lives centered on the practice of hula and its associated arts. Join VAC for an informative and fun hour of shared hula genealogy, traditions, protocols, and experiences rooted in the ancient Hawaiian practice of Hula and current Hawaiian life ways. This episode of Hula Voices presents lei maker, Bobbie Jean Leithead-Todd.
Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd started making various lei with her mother in the late 50’s. They created lei out of anything they had; croton leaves, plumeria, crown flower, orchids, silk and cotton fabric, yarn and ribbons. As a teen, she would travel the island to gather flowers and maile. Now in her 70’s, she primarily gathers native foliage for wili style lei poʻo to adorn her family, friends and self.
Hula Voices is moderated by Desiree Moana Cruz and supported by Hawaiʻi Tourism. While the event is free, Park entrance fees do apply. Parking at the Kīlauea Visitor Center parking lot is currently limited due to ongoing construction within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. We encourage visitors to carpool, arrive early, and/or park at the Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents) parking lot and walk to the gallery. Your support and patience are greatly appreciated.
Volcano Art Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1974, dedicated to promoting, developing, and perpetuating the artistic, cultural, and environmental heritage of Hawaiʻi through arts and education.