An intimate and mesmerising series showcasing the craft and unique skills of contemporary Oceanic artists who today channel the artistic traditions of their ancestors into new and ever more extraordinary works. Filmed with a considered, blue-chip approach, each hour follows a different artist as they create an intricate new art work from start to finish. During this time we learn about the artist’s story and their inspiration. We also come to understand the materials they use and what their work means to the local community. Traditional Oceanic crafts featured are line and dot painting from Australia; Whakairo, the Maori art of carving from New Zealand; Kapa, the sacred ceremonial fabric made by native Hawaiians; and tattoos from Tahiti.
The body art is said to have originated here as long ago as 1500BC, but travelled back to Europe with Captain Cook.