"But most important ...
... this is a project that promotes respect, awareness, and appreciation of creatures of this earth.
“Lots of communities across America have created these ‘art parades’ and it is exciting to see Hawai’i Island take its place among them. I hope this outdoor exhibit encourages artistic expression and leads to future creative endeavors like Itʻs a Honu World™.” Harry Kim, MAYOR
What is this project about and where did it come from?
One sleepy morning in 1998 the residents and the gnomes of Zürich, Switzerland awoke to find themselves in the middle of hundreds of life sized fiberglass cows, painted by local artists with a sense of whimsy.
It was the dawning of a worldwide public art phenomenon.
From Zurich, the ‘Lions of Munich,’ to Cleveland for Guitars in that 
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame city. Buffaloes in … you guessed it, Buffalo, Pigs in Seattle and on to the famous Trail of Painted Ponies (pictured above) in New Mexico, the outdoor art inspired communities, charities, and local artists.
Today in Hawai’i…
CHAMPIONS have sponsored fiberglass Honu (Green Sea Turtle) forms for the island wide Public Art Exhibit.
Over 35 ARTISTS have embellished and painted their vision on Honu sculptures spanning the Big Island.
Each sponsored Honu has a specific charity (HERO), who will be the recipient of funds when the Honu are auctioned at the September Event(s).
Hereʻs what people are saying:
“I believe that the surprise appearance of fifty five-foot whimsically painted sea turtles could spark an almost electrical “charge” of fun, excitement, and community identity to the Island of Hawaii.” Herb Kane
“Thanks so much for bringing this wonderful, community building opportunity to the Big Island. I have seen similar art FUNdraising events in Zürich, Switzerland (cows) and in Port Townsend, WA. (salmon). In both cities, the work produced was original, thoughtful and amusing.” Kate Jacobson, Community Relations Director, Innovations School
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