Pasifika Fa'a Tuli Table Runner

The Pasifika Fa'a Tuli Table Runner, designed by acclaimed artist Phila Te Wiremu¯Lagaluga, is a stunning cultural accent for any space. Phila, celebrated for melding traditional Pacific tapa and tatau designs with contemporary flair, brings to life ancestral stories through bold, rhythmic patterns. Crafted from durable, heavy-weight polyester, this 30cm-wide table runner drapes elegantly across dining tables, sideboards, or teaching tables. Its vibrant, one-sided print resists fading across washes and wear, making it ideal for indoor use or sheltered alfresco settings. The symmetrical motifs celebrate Polynesian heritage, sparking conversations about Pacific art forms and visual culture, while the polyester weave ensures washability and ease of care. Practical yet captivating, this piece transforms everyday surfaces into meaningful cultural showcases.

Educational Benefits

• Promotes cultural literacy by introducing Pacific tapa and tatau symbolism within classroom environments.
• Enhances visual analysis skills through exploration of symmetry, pattern repetition, and colour harmonies.
• Supports interdisciplinary learning-blending art, geography, history and storytelling centred on Pacific identities.
• Encourages creative expression, inspiring students to design their own tapa-inspired artworks or textiles.

Classroom Ideas

• Display during lessons on Pacific cultures and invite students to compare motifs with other indigenous art forms.
• Use as a base for art centres, where children sketch or dye their own tapa patterns on paper.
• Incorporate in show-and-tell segments; students can share what they've learned about the piece and its cultural origins.
• Employ as a visual prompt for story circles: learners develop narratives inspired by the runner's symbolic imagery.

Safety & Information

• Ages: Suitable for use in all school settings; monitor use around preschoolers to prevent tripping or pulling.
• Measurements: Approximately 150cm length × 30cm width (standard size; other lengths available).
• Material: 100% heavy polyester; machine-wash warm, tumble-dry low or line-dry recommended.
• Safety: Keep away from open flames and heat sources; ensure centred on furniture to minimize slips.