Tivaevae are the height of women’s artistic expression within Cook Island and Society Islands communities, both in the islands and abroad. They are the key gift item during significant life ceremonies such as christenings, graduations, weddings, and funerals. Tivaevae (or tifaifai in Tahitian) are treasured heirlooms that feature from the beginning of life to its end.
Tivaevae making is largely a communal undertaking. Vainetini, tivaevae-making groups, are centered around a tivaevae ta’unga, quilting expert, who leads the creation and cutting of patterns and oversees the final form of tivaevae. Familial, village and island pride are bound up in the creativity and skill expressed in tivaevae.
Go behind the scenes to find out more with exhibition curator Fuli Pereira in her interview with Viva.
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