When was the last time you remember actually thinking about a tiki? When was the last time you even remember seeing one? Tikis, especially if you live in an area that has a lot of them, become something taken for granted. Tikis really can offer a bit more than simply being part of the environment. Sometimes looking at things in a different way, you can open your eyes to the idea that tikis can actually be a lot of fun, can make your home or living space more interesting and give you joy in your daily life.
You may be thinking "Who cares? Tikis are just some things that businesses use to spruce up a place, but no one really notices. They just fade into the background." Well, unless you are one of those people who really dislike them (yes there are some people that don't) I think there are some good reasons to give them some attention.
First, tikis look cool, in a really basic and simple sort of way. True, compared to other kinds of statues, they are pretty crude. It is, however, this very basic simplicity that makes them so cool. Without being as polished as a marble figure from a renaissance master, they still have a very powerful effect. Tikis are part of the Polynesian culture from a long time ago. The thought of those ancient times and what their tikis represented to them really captures the mind.
Polynesian culture is a vast and interesting subject unto itself, and worthy of study for those interested. For the purposes of this article, however, it will be sufficient to understand that tiki statues represent the "First Man." It was thought that the "First Man" was, himself, a god and that all Hawaiian people descended from him. There were other gods as well, typically including the god of war, the god of agriculture, the god of creation and the god of the sea. When a tiki statue was created, if the god it represented was pleased he would actually inhabit the statue and provide strength, power and protection to the people.
Another factor is that tikis can help us vicariously experience the tropics. One doesn't need to live in Hawaii to experience the wonder and beauty of a Polynesian paradise. This vicarious experience isn't limited to just tiki statues, either. Tiki cabins, tiki bars, tiki lights and tiki parties, because of their association with this intriguing and unusual culture, can help bring that paradise into your life.
With all these great advantages, what's not to like! Why not put a little tiki in your life? Most of the tiki items discussed herein are easy to find, and most are fairly cheap.
For do-it-yourselfers, lots of tiki items can be made. Tiki statues and tiki huts might be a little harder and more involved, but even they can be made if one is willing to take a little time and put in some work.
For those not quite so highly motivated, a tiki party might be a good way to start. Most things for a tiki party are really easy to get and give you really great effects for very little expense.
Hopefully some of these ideas will help you think about tikis with new appreciation. Good luck, and consider adding a bit of tiki to your life.
You may be thinking "Who cares? Tikis are just some things that businesses use to spruce up a place, but no one really notices. They just fade into the background." Well, unless you are one of those people who really dislike them (yes there are some people that don't) I think there are some good reasons to give them some attention.
First, tikis look cool, in a really basic and simple sort of way. True, compared to other kinds of statues, they are pretty crude. It is, however, this very basic simplicity that makes them so cool. Without being as polished as a marble figure from a renaissance master, they still have a very powerful effect. Tikis are part of the Polynesian culture from a long time ago. The thought of those ancient times and what their tikis represented to them really captures the mind.
Polynesian culture is a vast and interesting subject unto itself, and worthy of study for those interested. For the purposes of this article, however, it will be sufficient to understand that tiki statues represent the "First Man." It was thought that the "First Man" was, himself, a god and that all Hawaiian people descended from him. There were other gods as well, typically including the god of war, the god of agriculture, the god of creation and the god of the sea. When a tiki statue was created, if the god it represented was pleased he would actually inhabit the statue and provide strength, power and protection to the people.
Another factor is that tikis can help us vicariously experience the tropics. One doesn't need to live in Hawaii to experience the wonder and beauty of a Polynesian paradise. This vicarious experience isn't limited to just tiki statues, either. Tiki cabins, tiki bars, tiki lights and tiki parties, because of their association with this intriguing and unusual culture, can help bring that paradise into your life.
With all these great advantages, what's not to like! Why not put a little tiki in your life? Most of the tiki items discussed herein are easy to find, and most are fairly cheap.
For do-it-yourselfers, lots of tiki items can be made. Tiki statues and tiki huts might be a little harder and more involved, but even they can be made if one is willing to take a little time and put in some work.
For those not quite so highly motivated, a tiki party might be a good way to start. Most things for a tiki party are really easy to get and give you really great effects for very little expense.
Hopefully some of these ideas will help you think about tikis with new appreciation. Good luck, and consider adding a bit of tiki to your life.
About the Author:
If you're really interested in tikis be sure to read the article"How To Carve A Tiki Statue." Another way to experience that tropical life might be with your own landscape. If that sounds appealing, check out How To Create A Tropical Paradise With Your Landscape.