MICHAEL & ILONA HEMPERLY were married in Honolulu in 1968. Originally from Southern California, they followed their dream of living and working as artists in the islands, and they moved permanently to Oahu in 1970. this was the beginning of Aloha Island Art, and their family business that has continued through the years. Michaels art of GYOTAKU fish pressings is a modern version of an ancient art form. Michael is known worldwide for his colorful handpainted fish prints. Gyotaku is a fishermans art originating in Japan centuries ago (GYO means fish and TAKU means rubbing.) Michael has been producing and selling his work in Hawaii for 30 years. He generally uses small tropical fish donated by fishermen friends, but occasionally prints larger fish when available. Michael was featured in SEA FRONTIERS, published by the International Oceanographic Foundation back in 1982. From 1972 to 1995 Michael sold his work in the lobby of the Turtle Bay Hilton Hotel. When Michael isnt producing fish prints he can be seen driving around the North Shore in his rare right hand drive 1937 Ford Woody, or at the beach enjoying his favorite pastime, windsurfing...

Address: 59-197 Ke Nui Road, Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712
Telephone: 808.638.8651
Website: http://www.alohaislandart.com/