Hawaii Keiki Showcase Artistic Talents: Sew A Lei For Memorial Day Poster Contest

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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Contest Overview: A Celebration of Hawaiian Culture and Memorial Day

This "Sew a Lei" poster contest is designed to honor the brave veterans who have served our country while simultaneously celebrating the rich heritage of Hawaii. We encourage keiki to express their creativity and patriotism through the art of lei making, a deeply significant tradition in Hawaiian culture. This unique approach combines artistic expression with cultural appreciation, making it a truly special Memorial Day activity for young artists.

The contest is specifically designed for Hawaii keiki aged 5-12. Sewing a lei isn't just about crafting; it's about developing fine motor skills, fostering patience, and learning about the symbolism embedded within these beautiful adornments.

• Contest Theme: Memorial Day tribute through lei design.
• Eligibility: Hawaii keiki aged 5-12.
• Submission Deadline: July 4, 2024
• Prizes: First Place: $100 gift certificate to a local art supply store and feature in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Second Place: $50 gift certificate to a local art supply store. Third Place: $25 gift certificate to a local art supply store.

How to Participate: A Step-by-Step Guide for Young Artists

Participating in the "Sew a Lei" contest is easy and fun! Here's a simple guide to help your keiki create their masterpiece:

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Step 1: Gather Materials: Collect fabric scraps (consider using recycled materials for an eco-friendly approach!), needles appropriate for your child’s age and skill level, strong thread, and a sturdy poster board (18x24 inches recommended).
• Step 2: Design Your Lei: Brainstorm lei designs! Encourage your keiki to incorporate elements representing Memorial Day (red, white, and blue) and Hawaiian culture (Hibiscus, Plumeria, and other native flowers). Consider using symbolic imagery to represent remembrance and honor.
• Step 3: Sew Your Lei: Carefully sew the lei onto the poster board. Neatness and precision will be considered during judging.
• Step 4: Complete the Entry Form: Download the entry form from [link to entry form] and fill it out completely. Include your child’s name, age, contact information, and a short description of their lei design and its inspiration.
• Step 5: Submit Your Artwork: Submit your artwork by mail to [mailing address] or digitally through [link to online submission] by the deadline.

Judging Criteria: What Makes a Winning Design?

Our panel of judges, composed of local art educators and Hawaiian cultural experts, will evaluate each submission based on the following criteria:

• Creativity and Originality: Does the design showcase unique ideas and innovative approaches to lei-making and Memorial Day representation?
• Quality of Craftsmanship: Is the lei neatly sewn? Is the overall presentation clean and well-executed? Are the materials appropriately used and secured?
• Effective Use of Color and Design Elements: Does the poster utilize color effectively to convey meaning and enhance the visual appeal? Are design elements thoughtfully arranged?
• Strong Representation of Memorial Day and Hawaiian Culture: Does the design successfully incorporate both patriotic and Hawaiian cultural elements? Is there a clear connection to the theme of remembrance and respect?
• Overall Impact and Visual Appeal: Does the poster create a powerful and lasting impression?

Inspiring Lei Designs: Ideas and Inspiration for Your Keiki

Need some inspiration? Explore these ideas and resources to ignite your keiki's creativity:

• Traditional Hawaiian Lei Designs: Research the many beautiful traditional lei designs using various flowers and materials. Consider incorporating the symbolic meanings of these flowers.
• Modern Interpretations of Lei Designs: Encourage modern twists on classic lei designs. Your keiki may experiment with unique color palettes or unconventional materials.
• Incorporating Patriotic Colors: Incorporate red, white, and blue into their lei designs to represent the Memorial Day theme.
• Using Symbolic Elements: Research flowers that represent remembrance or peace and include them in the design.

Conclusion: Celebrate Hawaiian Heritage and Honor Our Veterans

This "Sew a Lei" Memorial Day Poster Contest provides a wonderful opportunity for Hawaii keiki to express their artistic talents while honoring our veterans and celebrating Hawaiian culture. This unique blend of creativity and cultural appreciation creates a memorable and meaningful Memorial Day experience.

Unleash your keiki's creativity and enter the "Sew a Lei" Memorial Day Poster Contest today! Don't miss this chance to celebrate Hawaiian heritage and honor our veterans. Submit your artwork before July 4, 2024! For more information, including complete rules and the entry form, visit [link to contest website].