Tapa is a traditional fabric made from tree bark. It is present in many cultures around the world, particularly in Oceania. In Wallis and Futuna, tapa is an ancestral art that is still practiced today.
The process of making tapa is long and meticulous. It begins by harvesting the bark of trees, usually ficus. The bark is then soaked in water for several days to soften it. It is then beaten with a mallet to make it finer and more uniform.
Once the bark is beaten, it is painted or decorated by hand. The patterns are generally inspired by nature, culture or religion. Tapa can be used to make clothing, kitchen utensils, decorative objects or even works of art.
Tapa is an important art for the culture of Wallis and Futuna. It is a symbol of the country's cultural identity. It is also a source of income for the artisans who make it.
To find out more about tapa, go here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=876759019431572
