Michael D. Horikawa Fine Art
"A collection that
rivals the finest museums in the islands today. "
In 1974, Michael found his true calling and over the next 40 year period assembled one of the largest and
significant private collection of Hawaiian art. Upon retiring from photography in 2002 he began to focus on his new venture–Michael D Horikawa Fine Art–a gallery specializing in 19th and early 20th Hawaiian art. It opened its doors in November 2003 and was an instant success. In a recently published magazine article, it states that he has "…a collection that rivals the finest museums in the islands today."
Hawaii Collector
From an early age Michael displayed signs of a promising artist, however, frustrated at not being able to execute what was in his mind's eye to hand he found a medium in photography. Quickly becoming one of Hawaii's leading and frequently sought-after commercial photographers he has won multiple awards for his commercial work and pictorial essays. His keen eye for detail and composition and his passion for collecting is attested in the books he photographed and helped produce: "Hawaiian Furniture and Hawaii's Cabinetmakers" published by the Daughter's of Hawaii, "Iolani Palace" published by the Friends of Iolani Palace and "Finding Paradise" showcasing private collections and published by the Honolulu Museum of Art.
Handpicked by the director of Bishop Museum in 2005 and appointed research affiliate, Michael, was placed in charge of curating and prioritizing the museums vast art collection, one that had not been seen by the public for over 70 years. Then Director Bill Brown said "We trust you", and Michael was given full access to select, conserve, reframe,and install the important works for the reopening of the picture gallery. It was the first phase of the large scale remodeling plans for the museum.
In 2007, Michael was invited to sit on the board of the Board of Trustees for the Honolulu Museum of Art. He serves on the collections committee, building and grounds committees as well as collaborator and consultant on special exhibitions. Currently Michael is curating an art collection for Punahou School, one of Hawaii's oldest private institutions, for their upcoming 175th anniversary. He is actively buying, selling and consulting. Micheal's expertise also includes correct period framing, art conservation coordination, period Koa furniture, works on paper and Hawaiian artifacts.