The Path of Study & Practice of the Hula--with Kumu Iwalani & Island Arts
Kumu Iwalani is a Kumu Hula in the traditional and cultural definition of the ancient practice of the art and welcomes all those who are serious students of the hula to come and share in the knowledge passed down to her. Kumu Iwalani's dedication to the tradition makes learning from her a unique and rewarding experience for anyone seeking the grace and discipline of an art form that touches the body, mind, and spirit.
Whether you are new to hula or have been studying a while, you will learn and be enriched with a fresh perspective on this ancient practice in a culturally authentic class format in the Island Arts ohana. Although there are many schools of hula, our school focuses primarily on the ancient chants, protocol, history, and discipline of movements while preserving constant awareness of breath and energy. Ultimately with the goal of applying these principles learned to your own personal philosophy on life and lifestyle.
All of Kumu Iwalani's students learn language, chant, protocol, respect for and application of cultural customs, and traditional movements. Emphasizing self-discipline with a focus on awareness, respect, culture, harmony, and aloha. All classes are taught by Kumu Iwalani.
FALL TERM REGISTRATION NOW OPEN (Classes Start in Oct & Nov 2010)
Now accepting new students for the following classes:
"INTRODUCTION TO THE BASICS" (A FREE WORKSHOP)
Friday, October 8
7pm, 30-minutes.
- Ages 13 and up, male & female students welcome
- Bring a pa'u or fabric sarong/pareu wrap
- Workshop will be indoors at the community center at 1400 Lake Drive, Eugene, OR
- All students must pre-register for this class by calling (541) 688-4052
DISCOVER HULA (MAKUA & KUPUNA CLASS): An Introduction to the Hawaiian Art & Tradition for Mature Adults
HULA 1: Beginning/Intermediate
THESE OTHER CLASSES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE:
***CHILDREN'S GROUP CLASSES--for ages 5 thru 12 (parents or guardians accompanying child must also register at the park office by calling 541-688-4052 or pay the drop-in fee). Mandatory dress code.
*** MEN'S CLASSES--open to ages 13 and up. Movement study, posture, chants and protocol.
Call (541) 688-4052 to register or visit www.rrpark.org for term schedule.
Drop-ins welcome for Children's & Hula 1 classes only--$15 per student/class.
ISLAND ARTS DEMO/PROMO (Click image to play video sample)
MISSION
Our mission is to perpetuate and practice the living tradition of Hula through protocol, chants, and ceremonies to perpetuate Hawaiian culture and values and to foster Aloha Spirit awareness through education and the arts for the next generation.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT, SUPPORT & PRESENCE
Your personal as well as community support, participation, and contributions in our on-going classes and workshops, fundraising efforts, and cultural presentations enable educational scholarship opportunities for our Native Hawaiian as well as diverse ethnicities within the student members of our 'ohana. We are an inclusive learning center--we embrace all who have a sincere desire to learn and respect the tradition and culture--regardless of age, financial status, religious beliefs, gender, sexual orientation or ethnicity.
Kumu Iwalani and the Island Arts 'ohana have been privileged to share their message of aloha through presentations, workshops, and lectures at local schools, colleges, and various educational institutions and continue to partner with community, non-profit, federal, and state organizations to successfully create and implement events, programs, and outreach activities that strengthen our native Hawaiian as well as our local and global community.
Live Hawaiian & Island-inspired Music Recordings...by Iwalani--NOW ON iTUNES!





Beautiful songs to start or complete your day...mahalo for listening!
Available now for download on iTunes! Click on the image above to take you there.
The physical CD is available in class sessions, workshops, and during performances.
Mahalo for your support!
YOUTH CLASSES
Discover Hula--An Introduction to the Hawaiian Art & Tradition
A Cultural Immersion Series for Youth Program--created by Kumu Iwalani as a Community Partnership for Cultural Education and Awareness with River Road Parks & ASAP. (Limited space available for this program, call today to reserve your child's spot.)Mandatory dress code. All parents/guardians accompanying child in class must register at the park office or pay the drop-in fee. Call (541) 688-4052 to register.
"The sweet fragrance of the maile and laua'e permeate the air as the wind orchestrates a dance with the elements. The voice chants a song composed by nature. The dancers, adorned with the sacred plants of the tradition, move in unison to the heartbeat of the drum. It is seen, it is heard...and welcomed by the ancients of long ago as well as those who are privileged to witness it today.
The legendary names of Laka, Hi'iaka, Pele...the mist surrounding the volcanoes, the exquisite song of the 'apapane bird, the dew on the lehua blossom in the morning, the gentle rain falling on our cheek like teardrops--they are our teachers, inspiration, and guide.
This celebration of body, mind, and spirit--in harmony with our past, present, and future--surround the sacred site where the legends and tradition all began.
When we practice hula, we find our true selves..."
--quoted from Kumu Iwalani (Cultural Practitioner & Advocate, Performer, Musician, Community Leader for Lane County Youth, Recording Artist, Kumu Hula)---on what is "The Living Tradition of Hula" as practiced by her ohana (family) and haumana (students) in the formal hula training center (halau) known as Island Arts currently based in Eugene, Oregon.
Eugene, OR Updated Saturday, September 04, 2010 10:54 PM
 Clear | 52°F | High: 70°F Low: 42°F Wind: 7 mph Humidity: 76%
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 Monday 75° / 51° |  Tuesday 68° / 53° |  Wednesday 69° / 51° |  Thursday 72° / 49° |
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Honolulu Updated Saturday, September 04, 2010 8:53 PM
 Mostly Cloudy | 79°F | High: 86°F Low: 72°F Wind: 7 mph Humidity: 57%
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 Sunday 86° / 73° |  Monday 85° / 72° |  Tuesday 85° / 71° |  Wednesday 86° / 72° |
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