Shangri La - Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design
The Shangri-La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design, located in the wealthy Black Point residential area near the famous Diamond Head, is one of the most distinctive and historical gems on the island, and it is open to the public.
The history of Shangri La Museum
The museum brings together the global culture of Islamic art and design to create innovative exhibitions, educational initiatives for all ages, and public programs tailored to your needs, whether you're an expert or novice traveler seeking to understand how religion has influenced cultures throughout history.
Shangri La, built in 1937 as Doris Duke's (1912-1993) Honolulu house, was inspired by Duke's extensive travels across North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, and incorporates artistic and architectural traditions from these areas. Shangri La is the United States' first freestanding Museum of Islamic Art.
Visit Shangri La
Shangri La is a museum that has been designed and organized as a microcosm of the various creative cultures of the Islamic world. It provides a unique and unforgettable experience of these respected traditions across the museum's indoor and outdoor areas.
In order to maintain the building's unique features as a tropical home, there are many stairs and no temperature control in the inside. It is suggested that you dress comfortably. On the tour bus to Shangri-La, no food or drinks are permitted, and no food or beverages are permitted within the museum. Outside of the Shangri-La, complimentary refreshments will be available in the courtyard.
Aside from Iranian art, Shangri-La has Moroccan gilded and painted ceilings, colorful Indian fabrics, perforated Spanish metalwork, and painted wooden Syrian interiors. The outside area involves tiered water features, fishponds, waterfalls, and a tropical garden, all set against the spectacular Pacific Ocean background.
Each year, the museum's exhibits change and feature a new selection of artworks from the museum's extensive collection. The current exhibit, #8x8 shangrila, which will be on display until March 9, 2021, is a fascinating exhibition of eight visual artists and eight performance artists who have each expressed their perspectives on the "concept of place." Their imaginative interpretations are set against the breathtaking scenery of different locations surrounding Shangri-La.
