Design of body and place
In French Polynesia, the design of place is consistent with the design on people’s bodies.
Tattoos here have been an important part of Polynesian culture ever since the great migration into the Pacific. Historically, tattoos were considered a rite of passage for young men and women; proof that they could accept pain in exchange for participation in community.
The individual designs also tell a story. Certain patterns refer to battle, sport, land, sea and beauty; and on particular body parts, they communicate strength, honour, knowledge or courage.
Originating as body art, today these designs have spilt out into the built environment. Enata (human figure) patterns are cut into balcony railings; tiki patterns are engraved into pillars and columns.
This consistent look and feel across bodies and buildings illustrates the close bond between the people and their places.
