What is tapa cloth?

Tapa cloth is a type of bark cloth made from the inner bark of certain trees, primarily the paper mulberry tree. It is traditionally made in the Pacific Islands, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Hawaii.

The process of making tapa cloth involves beating the inner bark of the tree into a thin, flexible sheet, which is then dyed or decorated with traditional patterns and designs. Tapa cloth is often used for clothing, bed coverings, ceremonial purposes, and as a form of artistic expression.

Tapa cloth holds cultural significance in many Pacific Island societies, where it is used in ceremonies, rituals, and as a symbol of social status. It is often given as a gift or presented at important events.

In recent years, tapa cloth has gained popularity as a form of artistic expression and cultural heritage, with contemporary artists using traditional methods to create modern interpretations of this ancient textile.