Bosko

Bosko Hrnjak stands as a seminal figure in the modern Tiki art movement, renowned for his revival of Polynesian Pop through handcrafted sculptures and ceramics. Born in 1963 in Los Angeles and raised amidst the mid-century architecture of Southern California’s San Gabriel Valley, Bosko’s early environment deeply influenced his artistic trajectory. After earning a B.F.A. from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena in 1988, he embarked on a mission in the mid-1980s to resurrect the art of Tiki carving, a practice that had waned since its mid-20th-century heyday. 

Bosko’s dedication led him to be the first artist in decades to sculpt full-sized Tikis, reintroduce Tiki ceramics, and design elaborate home bars, most notably “The Kapu Tiki Room.” His influence extended to commercial spaces, with his design of “Taboo Cove” in Las Vegas marking the first commercial Tiki bar in North America since the 1970s. Each of his pieces is meticulously handcrafted in his Southern California studio, reflecting a commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship.

His work has garnered international acclaim, featuring in exhibitions at esteemed galleries such as La Luz De Jesus, Track 16, and the Huntington Beach Art Center. Bosko’s contributions have been spotlighted in various media outlets, including the New York Times and U.S. News & World Report. The documentary “Bosko and the Rebirth of Tiki” offers an in-depth look at his journey and impact on the Tiki revival movement.

For those interested in exploring Bosko’s creations, his official website tikibosko.com showcases a range of his work, from wood carvings to ceramics, all embodying the spirit of Polynesian Pop.