Palagi 3

Palagi 3
Margaret Silverwood
Etching on 460 x 390 mm paper
1/15
2009


hmmm. Looking at this print I feel I have mixed feelings about it. The image of the deer, then the patterns of the Malu (Tattoo traditionally given to females in Samoa) on the deer's neck. Being Samoan and having researched about the Malu, I ask myself why is it on the deer? What relevence does this deer have with a Malu and why is it that she has associated Palagi with a deer?

Traditionally the Malu was recieved by females in Samoa as a sign of womanhood, acknowledging that they were ready to serve their families, to serve Samoa. Now day you see alot of females of Samoan origin recieve it without knowledge of its roots, and why its so important within Samoan Culture. But still, im left stumped as to why its on the deer.... Its like as soon as I saw the print I wasnt too sure whether to be insulted or to be rather amused. I feel more insulted than amused to be honest. What relevence does this deer have to the Malu? The more I think about the deer, the more I want print out this image and redraw over it, and give the Malu the respect it deserves. Maybe im blowing things out of my ass, but why a deer? Is it suppose to be Bambi? BAMBI??? What connection does Bambi have with the malu, or a palagi for that matter. Why is it on the neck? UGH too many questions to ask, why cant I get answers!!! Im going to stop questioning. Thank you Margaret for you Artwork :D

- Mila