Post #722950 by LostIsland on Fri, Jul 18, 2014 10:34 AM

I have noticed, and am a little guilty of that myself (there are a couple Indonesian items in my lounge). I suppose it's treated differently because there still seems to be at least a little cultural authenticity there, even if it isn't technically Tiki. The Buffet-esque type stuff isn't really authentic to anything. It's just poorly conceived designs intended to hawk margaritas and ugly, over priced tchotchkes.

Interesting about the alleged Steve Crane mug. If often seems there can be many approaches to Tiki appreciation. Some seem almost institutional. Like those that say I should like Tiki mugs enough to pay hundreds of dollars for one. Honestly, mugs are cool, some are awesome. I just can't justify spending anywhere close to that much on one. I like Tiki pendants and Hawaiian shirts, but don't feel the need to don it like a uniform. I also appreciate the role many designs have played in the history of Poly pop. Yet I still can't bring myself to like Mr Bali Hai or Tiki Bob.

Don't get me wrong, I think folks should do their thing, whatever it is, just so long as it doesn't infringe on others. It just seems sometimes that "thing" is more of a collective aesthetic and less of an individual expression of love or appreciation for Tiki culture.