The sculptor, lauhala weaver and two painters in a new Bishop Museum exhibit were selected because they've not only mastered their crafts, but also helped keep them alive and move them forward.

Together, they reflect the wide spectrum of the Hawaiian visual arts community, weaving intricate lauhala hats; sculpting with wood, stone and bone; and painting portraits of the ali'i along with very contemporary work.

"Despite their differences, in mediums, they're all bringing back into our consciousness the works and faces of our ancestors," said Noelle Kahanu, Bishop Museum's community coordinator for the "MAMo Awards 2008: Celebrating our Masters."

The exhibition in the J.M. Long Gallery features pieces from lauhala weaver Elizabeth Lee of Kona, painter David Parker of O'ahu, sculptor Hanale Hopfe of Wai'anae and painter and arts organizer Al Lagunero of Maui.

The exhibit is a prelude to the third annual Maoli Arts Month, celebrating Native Hawaiian art, artists and cultural practitioners. The museum will kick off the month with a free public reception and MAMo awards ceremony from 6 to 9 p.m. on May 1.

The awards were created three years ago. As artists worked to organize a native Hawaiian market for contemporary artists, they realized they first needed to celebrate those who had spent decades perfecting and perpetuating their crafts.

"We begin by acknowledging our foundation," Kahanu said.

Several MAMo events are planned at other venues throughout May: