In old Hawai'i on the island of Ni’ihau the people of the island created umeke pawehe, "decorated gourds". They created them for their own use, for trade with the other islands, and in the late 1800’s as souvenirs for the visiting sailors. At one time this was a lost technique, by trial and error and persistence Michael Harburg mastered the unique art form. He is currently exhibiting at Holualoa Inn. Michael offers guidance in the practice of this art, be sure to visit his gallery Ipu Hale at the top of Holualoa Town. You can reach Michael at ipuguy@yahoo.com or at 808-896-9081
