Melba Maderios

WEAVER

I’m an Weaver artist using Ulana ie’ie' (roots of ‘ie’ie vine) or i’e (rattan) weaving. This material is used to make fishtraps, sturdy baskets and containers, and as a means of providing a protective layer to gourds and other carriers. The Hawaii Ali’i royalty and warriors wore woven Mahiole (helmets) and ancients also used it to weave intricate effigies of their ancestors and deities that were often only utilized for high ceremony or important events.

My Kumu's (teachers) are Kumulaau & Haunani Sing of Oahu. They follow and teach the ways of our kupuna hundreds of years ago. The same replicas you will find in the Bishop Museum, the British Museum and other Museums of Hawaiian Ulana 'ie'ie weaving. My background in Architecture has influenced me in my pursuit to perfection in Ulana 'ie'ie weaving.

I am married to a Hawaiian Lolana Medeiros (Woodcarver) of South Kona. He too is a Ulana 'ie'ie weaver. I have a daughter Regine Keawehine Medeiros an accountant major in UH Manoa. I hope you will enjoy my weaving products.