Most of us are aware of what a tiki is. Tikis are those large carved statues with really big faces and either garishly smiling or really scary expressions. They are often in restaurants or bars, and sometimes even in home landscapes. Perhaps we don't even give them a second thought, simply passing them by as just another thing to look at or part of the environment. It may be, however, that tikis can offer a bit more than simply being an inconsequential fixture. It may be that with the right perspective and an open minded approach tikis can actually enhance your world, brighten your outlook and provide you with enjoyment in your daily life.
"Why," you might say, "would I think about a tiki statue, or waste my time over it?" Actually, unless you're one of those individuals who truly scorn them, there are a couple of reasons. To start with, tikis are engaging, in a primitive kind of way. As statuary goes, they are exceptionally simple. It is, notwithstanding, this remarkably primitive simplicity that is their allure. Uncomplicated in outline, yet compelling in their impact, tikis are suggestive of the Polynesian society from long, long prior. The conundrum and excitement of age-old cities in beguiling locales can be pleasantly overwhelming.
Polynesian culture brings up another facet of their appeal, -the fascinating history of tikis, and their meaning to the peoples from which they emerged. It is widely considered that tiki statues are artistic representations of "First Man," or the powerful and religiously significant primordial ancestor, himself a deity. The tiki statues then were carved in various forms typically representing the god of war, the god of agriculture, the god of creation and the god of the sea. If the various gods were pleased with their likenesses, they were said to actually inhabit the sculpture, offering the people strength, power and protection.
Finally, tikis can function as a symbol to elicit vicarious tropical experiences. Everything associated with tiki society can offer help. One obviously doesn't need to live in a tropical or subtropical environment to experience fun and satisfaction regarding the tropical lifestyle. Tiki statues, tiki lodges, tiki bars, tiki lights and tiki parties, through their association with what some truly think is paradise, can offer a way to lessen stress, increase fulfillment and create an aura of beauty in any environment.
With so much going for them, in so many different ways, why would anyone NOT take advantage of them? Most tiki items are widely available, and generally very reasonably priced, allowing almost anyone to partake.
For those do-it-yourselfers, many tiki items can easily be made. Even tiki statues and tiki huts, though more challenging, can be made if one is willing to put in a bit of time and effort.
For those not so highly motivated, a tiki social event might be a basic way to start. A couple tiki lights, some island or tropical music and some potent rum drinks and you could be well on your way to a most pleasant "tiki" experience. You could even have a tiki themed cake to complete it.
"Why," you might say, "would I think about a tiki statue, or waste my time over it?" Actually, unless you're one of those individuals who truly scorn them, there are a couple of reasons. To start with, tikis are engaging, in a primitive kind of way. As statuary goes, they are exceptionally simple. It is, notwithstanding, this remarkably primitive simplicity that is their allure. Uncomplicated in outline, yet compelling in their impact, tikis are suggestive of the Polynesian society from long, long prior. The conundrum and excitement of age-old cities in beguiling locales can be pleasantly overwhelming.
Polynesian culture brings up another facet of their appeal, -the fascinating history of tikis, and their meaning to the peoples from which they emerged. It is widely considered that tiki statues are artistic representations of "First Man," or the powerful and religiously significant primordial ancestor, himself a deity. The tiki statues then were carved in various forms typically representing the god of war, the god of agriculture, the god of creation and the god of the sea. If the various gods were pleased with their likenesses, they were said to actually inhabit the sculpture, offering the people strength, power and protection.
Finally, tikis can function as a symbol to elicit vicarious tropical experiences. Everything associated with tiki society can offer help. One obviously doesn't need to live in a tropical or subtropical environment to experience fun and satisfaction regarding the tropical lifestyle. Tiki statues, tiki lodges, tiki bars, tiki lights and tiki parties, through their association with what some truly think is paradise, can offer a way to lessen stress, increase fulfillment and create an aura of beauty in any environment.
With so much going for them, in so many different ways, why would anyone NOT take advantage of them? Most tiki items are widely available, and generally very reasonably priced, allowing almost anyone to partake.
For those do-it-yourselfers, many tiki items can easily be made. Even tiki statues and tiki huts, though more challenging, can be made if one is willing to put in a bit of time and effort.
For those not so highly motivated, a tiki social event might be a basic way to start. A couple tiki lights, some island or tropical music and some potent rum drinks and you could be well on your way to a most pleasant "tiki" experience. You could even have a tiki themed cake to complete it.
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For more information on the tiki lifestyle and tropical paradise be sure to read the article "Why tikis Are Important". You can also find some easy to follow plans detailing how to make your very own miniature tiki torch decorations at gizmoplans.