Post #241301 by jpmartdog on Thu, Jul 6, 2006 10:28 AM

For me, Tiki has two important feelings to it. The Tiki/bar side and the Tiki/Polynesia side. Ever since I was a young boy I have recognized both aspects. As far as the Tiki/Polynesia, I have long dreamed of the day I could digress from this urban jungle and retreat to a simpler life of sand between my toes - no shoes, no long pants. I've always felt an affection towards Island life, the culture and traditions embracing their environment rather than looking for ways to modernize and over achieve. One of my favorite movies (as an artist) is "the age of content" 1969, where an adult artist moves to a small island on the great barrier reef to re-find his passion and inspiration for his art. He finds his peace - but of course finds a willing model in the form of a beautiful 18 yr-old island girl - who has been repressed by her overprotective grandma. Pure fantasy, but an enviable situation to reclaim your environment and open your sole to less technological influences. On this same thought the colors of the Islands are overwhelming - the greens of the palms, the turquoise of the sea, the browns of the sand and coconuts, the reds of the sunsets and sunrises. All those colors so easily missed in the Los Angeles cityscape.

As for the Tiki/bar side - growing up in Boston, Mass - my family frequented Polynesian restaurants on special occasions. Actually they were more Chinese restaurants with tiki decor. Kowloon in Saugus, Hawaiian Gardens in Seabrook, NH, Tiki Lau in Amesbury, Mass, and Oriental Gardens in Haverhill, Mass to name a few. As a young child I recognized and found a love for the presentation of food in drink in ceramic bowls, mugs and dishes. Flaming Hibachis, and those incredible lounges. Dark yet soothing where you could lose yourself in a dark corner, with your partner, sipping Mai Tais, Head Hunters and Zombies while being served by exotic woman with flowers in their hair. No matter what kind of day you had before you walked into the "lounge", you could easily forget the outside world for the few hours you spent in "paradise". Thatched roofs, bridges across water, starlite lamps on the ceiling, palm trees and velvet Wahines. To this day - it is that charm and escapism that supports the lure of my tiki collection. Unfortunately as a self employed artist - I am still waiting for the day I can create my own Polynesian escape - whether it be to the Islands or just an amazing area in my own home. Until then I can always dream - an occasional Mai Tai in my favorite Tiki Mug transports me there now!

[ Edited by: jpmartdog 2006-07-06 10:30 ]