FestPAC 2024: Traditional Pacific carving practices celebrated

Traditional Pacific carving practices are being celebrated in Hawaii at the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture (FestPAC).

Master carvers from across the region have spent the week side by side, carving giant exhibition pieces to be displayed this weekend.

Each country has been tasked with carving a ‘Tu Hoe’, a large paddle for steering canoes.

Under the lead of their master carver, the small teams are creating pieces reflecting their unique cultures.

Anthony Watson, a carver from Palau says it has been eye-opening to learn new ways of telling stories through carvings.

“It’s been an education seeing how everybodys cultures and upbringing has influenced what they come up with,” Watson told RNZ Pacific.

“What we produce with our hands is very much dictated by where we come from.”

He’s also noticed similarities between the nations.

He said this shows how connected Pacific cultures are.

Moko Mae of Rapa Nui agrees, saying the differences make them unique, but the similarities make them family.

“We are very happy because I’m see different styles, different culture, but we are brothers, you know we are brothers in union, this is moving, we are ‘Hanau’ (family),” he said.

The carvers have enjoyed mingling with one another, learning about each other’s designs, trading ideas and techniques.

William Powell, representing the Cook Islands said their team has been busy with their carving, but they have taken time to speak to other carvers.

“We’ve been progressing pretty good and oh it’s been fantastic,” Powell said.

“There’s all types of carving from all across the Pacific, and their patterns are really nice, its beautiful!”

This weekend the carved paddles will be on exhibit at the Bishop Museum.

The carvers say the gathering has inspired them to be more proactive in teaching their techniques to future generations.