Bank of Hawaii Lahaina – Light Sculpture - ARCH HAWAII

BANK OF HAWAII
Lahaina

We were honored to collaborate with Bank of Hawai‘i to create a landmark light sculpture that celebrates Hawaiian heritage and culture. This one-of-a-kind permanent installation marks the first time the bank has commissioned custom artwork for one of its branches—making it a historic milestone for the institution and the Lahaina community.

Bank of Hawaii custom light sculpture with metal aluminum fish and clear plexiglass

For this project, ARCH Hawaii was responsible for the concept development, design, fabrication, and installation of a site-specific light sculpture created to honor Hawaiian heritage, storytelling, and resilience. The artwork now anchors the newly rebuilt Bank of Hawai‘i Lahaina Branch, serving as a beacon of light, hope, and connection for the local community.

nested inside the recently newly buiilt bank after the Lahaina fires of 2023

This highly collaborative project was developed over the course of a year, with intensive design development, cultural consultation, prototyping, and fabrication. Installed in the public entryway of the branch, the sculpture invites reflection, remembrance, and pride—marking a meaningful step in the healing and rebuilding of Lahaina.

Mahalo

We were honored to collaborate with Bank of Hawai‘i to create a landmark light sculpture that celebrates Hawaiian heritage and culture. This one-of-a-kind permanent installation marks the first time the bank has commissioned custom artwork for one of its branches—making it a historic milestone for the institution and the Lahaina community.

Overview

A First for the Bank – This is the first time Bank of Hawai‘i has integrated a commissioned permanent artwork across any of its statewide locations, setting a new precedent for place-based design.
Light as Storytelling – The sculpture uses programmed lighting, layered textures, and symbolic forms to convey themes of history, regeneration, and aloha ʻāina (love of the land).
Built to Endure – Engineered with durable materials, layered finishes, and precision lighting, the piece was fabricated with longevity and public interaction in mind.

Each element was crafted with respect, intention, and aloha—rooted in collaboration with the bank’s leadership and cultural advisors.