Palm Leaves and Patterned Weaves: Weaving in TOnga

Tongan weaving is a type of folklore that holds material and traditional value. Woven from materials of the Earth through the hands of women, weaving originally  was only meant to honor nobility and sacred ceremonies. However, it has transformed to be more than that and highlights the strength and nurturing nature of women in Tongan society. Like much of traditional knowledge, the mat of weaving which holds the Tongan people together is constantly threatened by loss of culture. Weaving extends to the greater Pacific Islander community, sharing similar materials and patterns, which weaves Oceania together.