History

As a witness to the unique History of French Polynesia, Art and Sculpture has always persisted in our Culture as a powerful means of expression through which Artists relay stories from the past.

Used for ritual celebrations, to pass down legends or protect tribes, Polynesian Art is a true open book through which Artists tell their story. Mystery continues to surround the meaning of Art in our Culture where all knowledge was once orally transmitted.
Ancestral Art forms such as Sculpture are a true testament to the unique creative abilities of Polynesian Artists, who continue to practice this fine skill transmitted down generations.

Brought to the West by missionaries, Polynesian Art is now featured in the world’s largest museums and is appreciated by art lovers everywhere.

Famous worldwide, the Tiki, or Ti’i, is a popular symbol in Polynesian Art. Part Man and part God, a mighty Tiki was present in every village to protect its tribe. He represented knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Each of French Polynesia’s five archipelagos has a different interpretation of the Tiki: the Gambier islands have their own unique style of Tiki RAO, the original of which can be found at the Quai Branly Museum in Paris.
Meanwhile, the Austral islands boast a famous statue of the God A’A, the original of which is currently exposed at the British Museum in London.

Come discover these breathtaking works of Art in our Tahiti and Bora Bora galleries.