HONOLULU (HI Now) - Founded in 1991, Hāna Arts began with a simple yet powerful vision—to provide visual arts and crafts classes for the children of Hāna, Maui. From these modest beginnings, we have grown into a cornerstone of creativity and cultural expression in East Maui. Our mission is to make art and cultural education accessible to all, fostering life-enhancing and income-generating opportunities from keiki to kūpuna. Deeply rooted in our unique community, we strive to preserve and celebrate Hawaiian traditions while inspiring creativity and connection among residents and visitors alike.
Today, Hāna Arts offers a diverse array of programs encompassing music, dance, theater, visual arts, and traditional Hawaiian practices. Despite the challenges of geographic isolation and recent disasters like the Maui Wildfire, we continue to thrive by integrating local traditions, environmental stewardship, and community healing into our programming. Through collaborations with schools, cultural practitioners, and local organizations, we are shaping a future where arts and culture serve as bridges between generations, places, and people.
Our programs are deeply regenerative, blending cultural preservation with economic development. At the Hāna Farmers Market, they offer weekly workshops where participants engage with Hawaiian traditions such as lauhala weaving, lei making, and hula. Our Kula Noʻeau o Hāna program is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of cultural practitioners by teaching traditional Hawaiian arts, language, and practices. Additionally, our vocational training programs in ceramics and screen printing provide practical skills that empower small business owners and artists, ensuring a sustainable future for our community. These initiatives honor our past while equipping our community with the tools to thrive in a modern world.
Youth education is central to our mission. For younger students, we integrate performing arts, visual arts, and ʻāina-based learning into their curriculum. Older students benefit from specialized electives such as ceramics, mural design, and Polynesian culture studies. These programs not only nurture creativity and critical thinking but also instill a deep sense of cultural identity, preparing our youth to become future leaders and stewards of Hawaiian traditions.
Our events are a vibrant reflection of Hāna’s spirit. Every Friday, our cultural workshops at the Farmers Market bring residents and visitors together to learn, connect, and celebrate Hawaiian traditions. Additionally, our movement classes at the Art Barn—including yoga, jiujitsu, Tahitian dance, and hula—promote wellness and cultural engagement. One of our most cherished initiatives is the Levitt AMP Mele Series, held on the 1st and 3rd Fridays from May to September. This concert series, in partnership with the Levitt Foundation, provides free, family-friendly live music experiences that unite our community through the power of the arts.
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Hāna Arts remains committed to fostering creativity, preserving cultural traditions, and building a resilient, connected community. As we continue to grow, we invite all who share our vision to join us—whether as students, artists, supporters, or collaborators. Together, we can ensure that arts and culture remain at the heart of Hāna, enriching lives for generations to come.
For more information, visit www.hanaarts.org
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