Hawaiian tiki

Hawaiian tiki refers to stylized carvings and statues representing Polynesian deities, ancestors, or mythological figures, often characterized by bold features and symbolic patterns. Originating from ancient Polynesian cultures, these carvings serve spiritual, ritual, and cultural purposes. In modern contexts, especially in Western aesthetics, "tiki" has evolved into decorative art associated with tropical themes, featuring imagery like exaggerated facial features, bamboo, and lush motifs. While tiki culture popularized by mid-20th-century entertainment often romanticizes Polynesian traditions, authentic tiki art remains rooted in deep cultural and spiritual significance, reflecting respect for Polynesian heritage.