Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design (about 45 minutes from Ko Olina Beach Villas) is the United States’ only standalone museum of Islamic art. For art aficionados, this is a can’t-miss site to explore. Shangri La deepens the understanding of Islamic art, culture, and design by amplifying, highlighting, and valuing diverse voices and global perspectives – both historic and contemporary.
Constructed from 1935 to 1937 by philanthropist Doris Duke (1912-1993), Shangri La was inspired by her extensive travels throughout North Africa and Western, Central, South and Southeast Asia, and the landscapes of Hawai‘i. Over the course of 60 years, Duke assembled an impressive collection of nearly 4,500 artworks, cultural resources, and architectural designs through commissions from artisans, purchases from dealers and bazaars, or received as gifts. The collection is particularly strong in ceramics, wood, glass, and textiles from 1600 to 1940.
As part of her lasting desire to promote the study and understanding of the art and cultures experienced during her travels, Doris Duke directed in her will that Shangri La be “available to scholars, students and others interested in the furtherance and preservation of Islamic art and make the premises open to the public.” In 2002, Shangri La opened as the only museum dedicated exclusively to Islamic art in the United States.
The Honolulu Museum of Art coordinates 75-minute tours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at various times. Reservations are required (and the tours fill up fast).
For more information and to book in advance, visit https://www.shangrilahawaii.org/.
