The image of Polynesian beauty

The great explorers such as Cook, Bougainville and Wallis as well as other notable visitors like Paul Gauguin, created the myth of the ‘vahine,’ the sultry Polynesian woman. Soon, in the world’s imagination, the Tahitian woman had long black hair and with natural charms and sensuality danced an exotic dance.
This myth is reborn in the Miss Tahiti pageant, the winner becoming known as the most beautiful of all Polynesian women.
For the last 60 years Polynesians have elected their Miss to become the ambassador of Polynesian beauty to the world. On the night of the election, the feminine beauty of the culture hits center stage. The contestants wear magnificent gowns made from all sorts of vegetation as well as beautiful Polynesian fabrics as they show off their charms and talents.
More than just a simple competition, Miss Tahiti is an expression of the Polynesian population through the realm of physical beauty. Last April 26th, Hinatea Boosie, a 20 year old of mixed heritage was elected Miss Tahiti 2008, thus becoming the new face of the mythical ‘vahine.’

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©Greg Boissy