Back in Tahiti, artist displays this characteristic (5)
I believe the answer is:
trait
'this characteristic' is the definition.
(a trait is a quality or characteristic)
'back in tahiti artist' is the wordplay.
'back' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'tiart' is hidden within 'tahiti artist'.
'tiart' in reverse letter order is 'TRAIT'.
'displays' is the link.
(Other definitions for trait that I've seen before include "Quirk" , "Decorative band" , "Characteristic or distinguishing quality" , "Distinguishing characteristic of personality" , "Idiosyncrasy" .)