23/12/2004: "WOOD CARVING OF KAPINGAMARANGI ATOLL"

In 1916, a severe drought afflicted the outlying atoll of Kapingamarangi, 400 miles south of Pohnpei Island. The Japanese, who operated a colonial government throughout the islands at that time, ordered the relocation of ninety Kapinga residents to a small district of Kolonia. Though their lives were perhaps saved, they were given land in an area so resource-poor and undesirable by Pohnpeians that it was called Pohn rakied (Porakied is a shorter version), meaning 'on the gravel'. Thus began the growth of Pohnpei's Kapingamarangi Village, where the migrants and their descendents remain to this day. The Kapinga people of Porakied now outnumber those on their home island. Caught between a modern money economy they cannot afford and a life of subsistence that their land does not support, many have turned to the handicraft trade for survival. The men are renowned for producing beautifully intricate wood carvings, while the women weave baskets, fans and other ornaments for tourists and collectors. The village is an interesting place to visit; a mix of Polynesian and Micronesian culture blended with influences from two colonizing powers; ramshackle pool halls, bingo games, and gnarled carvers set among mounds of wood shavings.

Some of the best carvings in the region are to be found on the crowded streets of Porakied. Sharks, dolphins, manta rays and a myriad of other sea and land creatures are easy to find, as well as beautiful model outrigger canoes, hanging mobiles and many other things. Carvers will now take custom orders. Some carvers will also trade their creations for desired material commodities, such as snorkeling equipment, pots and pans, and tools. The most famous of the Kapinga carving operations is run by Heyger Paul.

The Carving Spot
Heyger Paul
P.O. Box 1582
tel: 691.320.3648

23/12/2004: "WOOD CARVING OF KAPINGAMARANGI ATOLL"

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