Anne D'Alleva explores the myriad art traditions and practices of Island Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia, and New Guinea from within their own cultural context. Mingling a deep appreciation for the beauty and variety of arts - sculpture, paintings, textiles, dance, jewelry, and architecture - found in these faraway seas with detailed knowledge of their traditions and meanings, D'Alleva opens to us a world of art both profoundly spiritual and vibrantly alive.