Post #7578 by Kailuageoff on Wed, Sep 4, 2002 8:19 AM

Actually I saw some of Wayne's work in Cannon Beach, Oregon earlier this year, and I'm sure his stuff is in various places in California. So his tikis are definitely known outside of Florida.
I suppose his style also could be around the world, since he sells and dispalys lots of stuff here in Orlando and our little theme park-laced hamlet is one of the top international tourism destinations on the planet (Why that is, I'm not sure).
I don't think anyone needs to defend Wayne's style. I agree with TikiJaksin that Mai Tiki really has become recognised as THE Florida tiki style, and that's probably why it is being immitated. Also, I know Wayne and Becky sometimes run short on their carvings, which means demand is pretty good.
To me, the idea that Wayne should be modifying his carvings or doing other things with it seems silly. I also think the fact that KreepyTiki is down in Miami doing carvings in their own style, selling them and building a reputation is a big credit to their art. I thought having KreepyTiki and Mai - Tiki showing and selling next to each other at the Hukilau really showed the Aloha spirit we should all share. My only wish is that GeckoTiki could fly in from Hawaii the next time we do this, and bring some of his carvings.