The online database provides background information and images of works in the city's 900-object art collection. The collection includes monuments, murals, paintings, plaques, and sculptures. The estimated value of the collection is $9 million. Most of this artwork is on display at city facilities.

"From the statue of Duke Kahanamoku in Waikiki to the bronze bust of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole in Wai'anae, the arts are an important part of our heritage, evoking a time and place and serving as symbols of Honolulu's legacy," Mayor Mufi Hannemann said. "We're delighted to be able to make the city's art collection more accessible to the public."

Grant Kagimoto, chairman of the Commission on Culture and the Arts, said the online database "is a wonderful tool" that allows easy access for anyone interested in learning about a particular art piece or who wishes to do research about the city's art collection.

"Perpetuating and making the arts accessible is important because the arts help define our history, culture, and sense of place," Kagimoto said. "Our stories are told and transcended through the arts," he said.

The Commission on Culture and the Arts, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2008, assists the city in preserving the artistic and cultural heritages of residents. The commission recommends acquisitions for the Art in City Buildings program. Honolulu was the first county in the state to create an organized body with such responsibilities. The commission advised the city on acquiring the majority of artwork in the collection.