Binkley public art sculpture at Napili Kai Resort on Maui, Hawaii

In the spring of 2006, Binkley was commissioned to create a memorial sculpture dedicated to Jack & Margaret Millar, who founded the Napili Kai Beach Resort on Maui, Hawaii, USA in 1962. The Millar's daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Warren gifted the sculpture to the Resort, and it sits on a grassy lawn, overlooking the Resort's beach.

Michael Binkley standing beside the breadfruit leaf sculpture marble block
First drawing of breadfruit leaf sculpture design

The subject of the Breadfuit Leaf was chosen as it is a favourite image of Hawaii for Mrs. Warren and for the tree's historical significance to Hawaii. Breadfruit has been a staple in the Polynesian diet for centuries. The "honu", or sea turtle was included as the favourite image for Margaret Millar. The Leaf is hollowed, echoing the Puka Puka rock, a favourite of Jack Millar's. Binkley carved the sculpture in such a fashion so that one can sit in it, like a recliner chair.

Partially carved marble sculpture in art studio of Michael Binkley

Binkley hand selected the white marble while in Italy. The Breadfruit Leaf is carved from carrara bianco marble, a variety from the famous quarries of Carrara, Italy. He had the block shipped to his studio in North Vancouver and when he finished carving it, he shipped it onto Hawaii. It is amazing that a piece of the Appinine Mountains was taken out of Italy and went halfway around the world to land in the middle of the Pacific Ocean!

Detail of sea tutle honu relief sculpture on breadfruit leaf

Binkley was honoured and blessed to have contributed to the memories of Jack and Margaret Millar, through sculpting the Breadfruit Leaf sculpture. This truly remarkable couple who left behind a legacy filled with beauty, promise, and hope; the Millars were of great service to the local environment and its people. Their energy is very apparent at Napili Kai Beach Resort, as the staff and fellow visitors exude such warmth. It is a magical place, where the surf meets the sand, sea turtles introduce themselves and a warm Hawaiian sun watches over you.

During the blessing ceremony, Kahuna Glen spoke of living life based on love and service to one’s fellow human beings. For an Artist, it is important to meet patrons who have this trait, as the artist develops his style and solidifies his creative direction. Elizabeth Warren is a person who does great service to others, and she one of many collectors that have supported Binkley for over 30 years.

Michael Binkley's finished public art sculpture in Napili Kai Beach Resort in Maui, Hawaii
Michael Binkley's finished public art sculpture in Napili Kai Beach Resort in Maui, Hawaii



Binkley is truly grateful to Elizabeth Warren for her dedication and support over the past three decades.

breadfruit leaf marble sculpture completely carved

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