Frank Haikiu, a celebrated Solomon Islands artist known for his cultural sculptures, has passed away, leaving a lasting legacy.
The Solomon Islands has lost a prominent figure in the art world with the passing of Frank Haikiu, a renowned sculptor and carver from Rennell-Bellona Province. Mr. Haikiu leaves behind a legacy of contributions to the cultural and artistic landscape of the country.
As one of the leading sculptors from Rennell-Bellona, he was recognized for his role in the development of the “tourist” or “commercial” style of carving, which was introduced around 1960 by the Seventh Day Adventist mission.
His talent was further recognized when he was employed by the Solomon Islands Museum, where he continued to refine his craft. He was later sent by the Solomon Islands Government to Fiji for further studies in sculpture, where he deepened his understanding of the art form.
Mr. Haikiu’s work is widely known in the Pacific, with significant contributions to several monuments in the Solomon Islands. One of his most notable works was his design of the “Pride of Our Nation” monument, which honors the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers who served during World War II. This monument, located in Honiara, includes life-sized figures of local scouts and a European coastwatcher, and serves as a reminder of the role local people played in the war effort.
Another significant contribution is the RAMSI monument in Honiara, which he created to mark the departure of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in 2017. The sculpture features two men on either side of a canoe, symbolizing the two provinces—Malaita and Guadalcanal—whose tensions were a focal point during the country’s civil conflict. The monument was unveiled as a symbol of reconciliation and peace.



In addition to his public sculptures, Mr. Haikiu was involved in numerous religious and cultural projects throughout his career. His carvings can be found in several churches, including the Holy Cross Cathedral and the Marist Chapel in Tanagai.
In 2017, during an interview with the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC), Mr. Haikiu expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to his country through his art. “I’m honoured and privileged. I’m a small man, and it’s a small monument, but at least I can leave something behind when I’m gone for my countrymen,” he said.
Frank Haikiu’s passing marks the loss of a significant figure in the Solomon Islands’ artistic community. His works, which include both cultural and historical pieces, will remain a part of the nation’s heritage.