Client: Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Art-In-Transit Program

Overview

Artist Donald Lipski created a suspended sculpture entitled He Kauhulu ‘Anae (A Gathering of Mullets) for the Leeward Community College Station in Pearl City. The star-studded star of mullet fish speak to the history of this place. Historical loko’i’a (fishponds) once flourished near this station, providing a steady abundance of fish for the early settlers of this area. This sculpture is inspired by the legend of Maihea, who lived in Waimalu. He Evoked the gods daily for continued properity of his cultivated crops. The gods, Kāne and Kanaloa came and stood at the top of Hā’upu, now the area of Leeward Community College. Looking towards ‘Ewa at the adjacent lowlands and loko’i’a they offered a chant to name and bless the surrounding sustainable resources:

“…May the fish ponds down at Waiawa be as stars in the sky above.”

Goals

The sculpture is located in the interior station entry, suspended from the lantern structure, making the artwork visible from the interior and exterior of the station as passengers approach the entrance. The work becomes illuminated in the evening as light spills through the star studded fish offered unique daytime and evening viewing experiences.

Process

The fish were sculpted by award-winning fish artist Mike Kirkhart, who Lipski worked with in the past to create both F.I.S.H. on San Antonio’s Riverwalk, and Got Any Jacks? at the Miami International Airport. Additional fabrication and engineering services provided by YetiWeurks. Project Management provided by Public Art Services.