E Komo Mai! at the Lodge at Koele, 
Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Lanai City, Hawai'i
WHY IS THE PINEAPPLE KNOWN AS A SYMBOL OF HOSPITALITY?

While the pineapple is known as an international symbol of warmth and  hospitality,  it also dominated the landscape and the economy of Lana’i for decades before giving way to tourism through the Four Seasons Resorts Lana’i.

The little known story of why the pineapple has long been a well-known symbol of hospitality and how it gained that reputation goes something like this…
The legend began in colonial America through a curious habit done by the New England sailing captains, who journeyed around the Caribbean Islands, returning to the colonies bringing sweet stores of fruits, spices and rum.As the legend goes, the captain would spear a pineapple on a fence post outside his home to let his family and friends know of his safe return from sea.  The pineapple showing up on the post was an invitation for them to visit, celebrate and listen to his adventures and stories. 

The tradition caught on and moved out and colonial innkeepers added pineapples to their welcome signs and advertisements.   Bedposts carved in the shape of a pineapple were a common sight at inns across New England.

While few know this story, the legend of the pineapple persists even now.  Watch for the pineapples, not just on Lana’i where they reigned supreme, but in surprising places in hotels and restaurants around the world welcoming you with their warm hospitality.
E Komo Mai! 1989 (54’ X 17’) triangle Exterior front entry mural in Politec on primed wood, at the Lodge at Koele, Four Seasons Resort, Lana’i City, Hawai’i

Working very closely with the former Island of Lana’i owner, CEO and President of Castle & Cooke, Inc. David H. Murdock and Senior Vice President, Architecture, Arnold C. Savrann, Calley painted the front entry of the Lodge at Koele, 55’ long and 55’ high at the pinnacle.

Art and Soul for the Earth
 Big Island of Hawai'i