Visit the Tikiyaki Polynesian Village Resort ...

As I mentioned in my previous post the Secret Island is currently under the firm grip of an Icy Winter... 16 degree maximums inside a bamboo hut has me wishing for Summer and/or warmer climes!

I stumbled across the Tikiyaki Orchestra Village Resort and found a really good deal. Not only to you get the keys to room 151 for a week in the sunshine you also get a copy of the Tikiyaki Orchestra's new album Aloha Baby and a whole heap of booty that Tiki aficionados swipe from reputable Tiki establishments ... you know the mugs, ice bucket, matches, ash trays ... need I go on?

Here is a little more about the hotel itself...

"The Tikiyaki Polynesian Village was constructed at great cost on the golden sands of Waikiki Beach. The well known architectural firm of Dewy, Chetham & Howe was contracted to draw up the plans and build the tropical destination. All the interiors were contracted to be designed by I.M. Bland-one of Hawaii's greatest interior designers. I.M. Bland chose the decore of the Shanghai International Trading Company (ShITCO) as the outfitter for the well appointed room. ShITCO was chosen for its hand made Island look featuring carved furniture made of real Polynesian driftwood and other found artifacts."

Aloha Lanes just one of the substandard facilities available to guests!

Introducing Bosko ...

Since graduating from Art Center College of Design in 1988, Bosko Hrnjak has carved out quite a career for himself. Literally: His hand-chiseled palm and redwood Tikis have become sought-after collector’s items, enabling him to create his own Polynesian hideaway on the outskirts of Escondido, California.

Taboo Cove a Bosko Bonana!

Between 1963 and 1976 his family moved four times, but always in the same area: Just off of Rosemead Blvd in Southern California's San Gabriel valley. From the back seat of their 64 Impala, he was amazed by the nightly drive past all of the mid-century Architectural landmarks; by day, peddling his bike, it seemed quite natural to see huge Tiki Gods, waterfalls, and volcanoes in front of A-frames. But by the mid 80's, he started his Tiki mug collection which kept growing and growing. Sven Kirsten explained to him in 1992 that there was a California Tiki style -- at once modern, primitive and cartoonish -- it was like an epiphany; it all made sense.

A couple of months later someone dumped a load of palm logs in a vacant lot down the road, and he took some home to carve Tiki stuff for his home bar. Two weeks later he had his first mask and pole designs (as seen in Tiki News #1). Soon after Bosko decided he needed his own Tiki mug, so the ceramics came next; he’s currently up to design #45!

Bosko has always held the forgotten masters in the highest regard, so it was an honor when, in the late 90's, he met Mr Westerhaver, creator of the legendary Witco furniture company, which featured in a previous post. It turned out both had attended Art Center School of Design in Pasadena, although 40 years apart. With his advice and support he developed his burnt-wood carving style.



His most recent exhibition was Mod Scapes & Shapes at M-Modern. Check out the slideshow…

Bosko Official Website.

What is Witco?

Witco started out as Western International Trading Company and imported South Pacific home furnishing items like Capishell Lamps. The company co-founders and artists were Ron Hovde and Bill Westenhaver.

As well as their business dealings in decorative imports they also had an interest in carving which eventually evolved into the rough cedar chain saw carved furniture and Tikis that Witco, as it became more commonly known, became famous for.

The artwork and production plant in Mt. Vernon, Washington eventually sold $15 million worth of Witco products throughout the world over a 10 year run in the 1970's.

One of their best customers must have been Elvis! The King's Jungle Room at Graceland is furnished almost entirely with Witco furniture. Most homes could get away with a feature piece or two, but not so Elvis as it would seem that his insatiable appetite for food was matched by his love of Witco! His Jungle Room features a full couch, a half-dozen chairs, tables, a cabinet, and a tiki bar with stools. Finished off with a lime green shag carpet not only on the floor but the ceiling as well!

p277 to 293 in the essential book Tiki Modern have a wonderful section on Witco and the legacy that it has left behind. In coming weeks I'll feature some of the work of Bosko, one of my favourite artists, which has a Witco flavour that I love.