Tiki culture

A cultural movement inspired by the South Pacific

Tiki culture is a 20th-century social and aesthetic movement that draws inspiration from the art, style, and ambiance of the South Pacific. It emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century, characterized by its distinctive Polynesian-themed decor, music, and cuisine. Tiki culture is often associated with exotic cocktails, tropical settings, and a sense of escapism.

Origins

Tiki culture began in the 1930s with the opening of Don the Beachcomber, a bar and restaurant in Hollywood, California, created by Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt, who later legally changed his name to Donn Beach. The establishment featured a Polynesian theme, with bamboo decor, tropical plants, and exotic cocktails. This concept quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of similar venues across the United States.

Menu from Don the Beachcomber, Hollywood

Development

The popularity of Tiki culture grew significantly after World War II, as American soldiers returned from the Pacific with stories and souvenirs from the islands. This period saw the rise of iconic Tiki bars and restaurants, such as Trader Vic's, which further popularized the Tiki aesthetic and cuisine. The 1950s and 1960s are often considered the golden age of Tiki culture, with its influence extending into architecture, fashion, and music.

Elements of Tiki Culture

Decor

Tiki decor is characterized by its use of natural materials such as bamboo, thatch, and wood carvings. Tiki bars often feature carved wooden figures, known as Tiki statues, which are inspired by traditional Polynesian art. These figures are often stylized representations of deities or ancestral spirits.

Tiki figure from the Marquesas Islands

Cocktails

Tiki culture is renowned for its elaborate and colorful cocktails, often served in distinctive Tiki mugs. These drinks typically feature rum as a base, combined with fruit juices and syrups. Some of the most famous Tiki cocktails include the Mai Tai, Zombie, and Pina Colada.

Tiki mug from the Purple Orchid Exotic Tiki Lounge

Music

The music associated with Tiki culture is often referred to as Exotica, a genre that blends jazz, Latin, and Polynesian influences. Exotica music aims to evoke the sounds and atmosphere of tropical islands, often featuring instruments such as the marimba, vibraphone, and bongos.

Cinema and Media

Tiki culture has been depicted in various films and media, often romanticizing the South Pacific as a paradise. The 1958 film South Pacific is a notable example, featuring lush island settings and themes of romance and adventure.

Final scene from South Pacific

Decline and Revival

By the late 1960s and 1970s, the popularity of Tiki culture began to wane, as changing tastes and cultural shifts led to a decline in interest. However, the late 20th and early 21st centuries have seen a revival of interest in Tiki culture, with new Tiki bars and events celebrating its unique aesthetic and history.

Related pages

• Polynesian culture
• Exotica (music genre)
• Cocktail
• South Pacific (musical)