The Marshall Islands are home to one of Oceania’s finest weaving techniques. Referred to as jaki-ed or nieded, these mats made from pandanus fibres were originally used as clothing. The method of weaving a jaki-ed, carried out solely by women, conforms to sacred cultural principles. Intricate geometric borders distinguish each mat as expressions of the weaver’s ancestry and a manifestation of the belief that, in this matrilineal society, women possess unique creative attributes. The practice of jaki-ed weaving almost disappeared when trade cloth was introduced to the island, but disruptions in shipments during World War Two prompted its revival. In 2013, a new apprenticeship program supported weavers to learn the art form within the traditional dynamic of a weaving circle where women could exchange cultural values and knowledge. To ensure the practice survives, a growing number of weavers and community leaders are committing themselves to advancing the quality and social relevance of jaki-ed weaving, both locally and internationally.

The art of weaving has also been a source of inspiration for Marshallese spoken-word poet, Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner. In 2014, Kathy was chosen to address the UN Climate Change Summit in New York. Her carefully crafted and passionately delivered performance captured a personal perspective of a nation on the frontlines of the global battle against climate change. In partnership with the University of the South Pacific’s Majuro Campus, we coordinated a three-week weaving circle, which brought together Kathy and 13 expert jaki-ed weavers. The project enabled participants to exchange valuable knowledge and skills, collectively explore meaningful ideas, and create new works that will feature in APT9 and that highlight the resilience of this island nation.

Ruha Fifita is Research Assistant, Pacific Art.