Unravelling lalava is a metaphoric expression I use as a means of uncovering the Tongan cultural knowledge embodied in lalava. The research project undertakes an auto-ethnographic approach as I intend to seek a cultural understanding as a means of unravelling a sense of Tongan identity. Lalava is almost unknown amongst the younger generations of Polynesians, especially those living outside of the Pacific Islands. Therefore this project aims to share this new-found knowledge with my community or those like me who are interested in discovering a sense of cultural identity through art.