Oceanic
Polynesian art was used only for decoration and was symbolic for mythological significance
Objects from different Islands have found to be unique
In Tahiti it was simple wooden and stone images that had no pattern as on Easter Island, where as, in Rorotonga, the human statues were stylised and generic.
In Samoa the only decoration is normally two narrow bands around an artwork
A point to remember is all around Polynesia most patterns have human figures as a basis
The nineteenth century brought large changes in Polynesian Art the change to Christianity brought a decrease and cease of sculptural heritage more secular artistic tradition became more important such as: women’s artwork, bark cloth, intricate plaited mats and men’s art forms, headrests, food pounders and bowls
Western technology sparked a renewed interest with acquiring steel carving tools making artistic carved paddles, ceremonial adzes, bold figurative painting traditions and Maori rank insignia and luxury goods of the Hawaiian monarchy.
Pictured is a early 19th century sash known as a lafi worn over one shoulder and secured at the waist it is 363.9 cm, created on the Island of Futana
Materials: plant fibre
Textile plant fibre
Pigment L
Made of bark cloth and decorated the ends of the sash are adorned with geometric patterns and painted freehand the central part of the sash is sparsely decorated with motifs this sash is worn with a headdress and a large skirt for dancing. Also pictured is a bark cloth panel
Designs were very structured a lot of thought process went into the pieces. Colours are earthy with geometric designs contrasting light and dark carvings were short or squat with bold patterns but also intricate.

http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/ht/11/ocp/ht11ocp.htm
http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/ht/10/ocp/ht11ocp.htm
http://www.art-andarchaeology'com/timelines/oceanic/polynesia.html
http://www.janeresture.com/oceanic_art/polynesia.htm