Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga (1983)

Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga (1983) poster

In the Western Highlands of Papua New Guinea, the Enga people have developed the art of body decoration as a visual language. Using earth paints, tree oils, bird plumes, human hair, and a variety of plants, the Enga turn the body into a medium for an expressive and dramatic symbolism. This film shows the diverse forms of body art in both daily life and ritual in Enga village society.

Director: Chris Owen
Runtime: 46 min
Release Date:
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Chris Owen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga about?
In the Western Highlands of Papua New Guinea, the Enga people have developed the art of body decoration as a visual language. Using earth paints, tree oils, bird plumes, human hair, and a variety of plants, the Enga turn the body into a medium for an expressive and dramatic symbolism. This film shows the diverse forms of body art in both daily life and ritual in Enga village society.
Who directed Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga?
Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga was directed by Chris Owen.
How long is Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga?
Tighten the Drums: Self-Decoration Among the Enga has a runtime of 46m (46 minutes).