TLT
Joined: May 10, 2009
Posts: 91
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TLT
I was browsing through the threads I found this one. And it's the only one I feel I can contribute to constructivley.
Anywho, this is a paradox that conflicts many designers face. When your work is underground, it stays "fresh" and "pure". Both which are relavent terms. Because, as seen now, all our tiki culture and pieces are created or collected because it's something we have a passion for. And while yes, I understand it's how some of the members of TC make a living, it's still something custom, something original. These are creations of the chisel in our hands, the ideas in our heads, and the sweat on our brow. From rock, wood, bamboo, thatch, PVC pipe, and other assortments of materials (maybe including a little alcohol) we use to make our own paradise. Should tiki hit mainstream, it will be about the lowest bidders and the highest profit. Like much of what has become kitschy through mainstream, tiki too could see this transformation.
Of course, another effect of mainstream is the takeover of what was ours and being called a "copycat" of something "they" created. To clarify, think of your favorite sitcom. Now think of that episode where the main character did somehting or worse something that wasn't accepted right away. However, later in that episode, EVERYONE is acting or wearing what they riddiculed not a commercial break ago. And as always, the main caracter, first on "the scene", is now seen as just another follower. I don't know abot any of you, but that would annoy me to no extent.
Finally, I feel it should stay within a realm of people who both respect and understand the history of tiki. Including it's roots to the oceanic and plynesian cultures from which they spawned. It's only a few steps away from "Alowhay" and "Mahaylow" and I truly would be somewhat sad to see tiki reach that mainstream low.
-LT
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