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USC Off the Beaten Path: The Search for Spirituality

Fire Poi

Finding a spiritual connection to the elemental, with help from a traditional Maori art
By Jessica Roberts, Chantal Allan, Amy Tenowich, June 18, 2007

Visually compelling, fire poi is an art form based on traditional Maori practices using a weighted ball attached to a string and twirled around the body.

Today, fans of the art — from the Burning Man festival to local parks — are learning the discipline of spinning chains and flammable wicks dipped in fuel.

Comments
David Kates, 2007-07-31 16:49:12 -- Flag for review

Great writing and visuals!

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Listen: Audio story by Chantal Allan

Image: Fire Poi Slideshow

Photo slideshow of fire dancers from the Los Angeles Fire Conclave

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