Tiki heads are a common site in the Hawaiian Islands. They’re not usually made of ice though…
updated 7/14/23 with seo, links, and info on Polynesian culture and my flaming Tiki head ice sculptures
a Tiki head ice sculpture design
When I was very young, I lived on the island of Oahu and my first memories are of Hawaiian beaches. I don’t remember seeing Tiki heads, but that’s probably just as well, because it probably saved me a few nightmares. These traditional Hawaiian statues resemble smaller, wood versions of the Easter Island heads. There are many different designs and I came up with this version for a Hawaiian themed event. Notice that the design is shifted to the left side of the block so that the extra ice can more easily be used for something else, like a raised base, etc.
By the way, this Tiki head ice sculpture design originally showed up in an ice sculpting newsletter in 2000, along with a lobster design.
borrowing ideas and cultural appropriation
Kind of like when I mentioned it in my Voodoo mask design post, the part where I design and sculpt these Tiki head ice sculptures, not to mention posting them, is cultural appropriation. While I certainly have a connection to Hawaii, this is not my culture nor my ancestors’ culture.
However, after considering the issue, I’ve come to the conclusion that appropriation can be simply theft, or it can be an opportunity for learning. So when I borrow cultural aspects from another culture (which is extremely difficult to avoid, btw), I try to offer some background along the way. Tiki heads are a fascinating part of the vast and diverse Polynesian culture and I hope you will learn more about it. Tiki heads are way more than decor for cheesy bars that serve drinks with umbrellas!
the fire gods project
Years ago, I got a request for to make flaming Tiki head ice sculptures for an event in Baton Rouge. Since something like that is extremely rare request, I was on it! This video, along with the music choice which I’m not sure if I regret or not, shows what happened when I made 2 flaming Tiki heads. I called it the Fire Gods project.
links and stuff
Earlier I mentioned a lobster design that’s also on the site and was first published with the Tiki head. And if you have any questions about my Tiki head ice sculpture design, email me or comment below. (It might not let you though.) If you would like to use this ice sculpture design or any other design on this site, please check the design usage guidelines. The design collection page lists designs on the site.
You might also find photos and info from this entry on the ice sculpting secrets Instagram account and you can comment there as well as below. Thanks!
