Produced by Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina
https://vimeo.com/122701537
Artist, craftsman and philosopher Sam Ka’ai displays his collection of fishhooks made of bone, ivory, pearl and turtle shell, and demonstrates the traditional way of making them using grinding stones and a traditional drill.
He explains the importance of cordage to the Hawaiians of old, who bound their world together instead of using nails. He presents the treasured lei niho palaoa (whale tooth pendant) and describes its importance in family inheritance. While carving his well-known wooden ki’i, he shares the insights into the past that he has gained from learning to make things in traditional ways.
Produced and directed by Puhipau and Joan Lander of Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina
To purchase this DVD and to support Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina’s digital archiving project, please visit their website.