Tapa cloth (or simply tapa) is a barkcloth made in the islands of the Pacific Ocean, primarily in Tonga, Samoa and Fiji, but as far afield as Niue, Cook Islands, Futuna, Solomon Islands, Java, New Zealand, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Hawaii (where it is called kapa).

Mar 29, 2024 · A popular art form in Fiji is the creation of the Fijian masi, also known as tapa cloth. The bark cloth commonly known as tapa was named by early explorers who derived the term from Tahiti, Samoa and Tonga where the word was used to refer to the white unpainted borders of the finished product.

Aug 26, 2024 · Masi, the traditional Fijian tapa cloth, has long been celebrated for its intricate designs and cultural significance, but in recent years, it has found a vibrant place in …

A description of the traditional method of preparing Fijian tapa cloth from which masi is made. The cloth is a ceremonial cloth used for special occasions.

Jan 23, 2025 · Tapa cloth is a type of traditional Oceanic fabric that is made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree. The type of tapa cloth that is made in the Fijian Islands is specifically called masi, and this cloth is decorated using natural dyes and stencils to …

The name Tapa, derived from the Samoan tapa referring to the plain border of a bark cloth sheet, is widely regarded as an early nineteenth century development coined during this active period of European contact.

Masi Masi also known as tapa cloth (courtesy Fiji Museum) Masi and tapa are names for bark cloth. This art form is practised in many regions of the South Pacific and in several areas of Fiji. Masi has many uses, including as ceremonial dress, wall decorations and more recent innovations such as table mats and handbags.

Dec 1, 2024 · In the heart of the Pacific Islands, particularly in Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa, lies an ancient tradition that weaves history, culture, and artistry into a single fabric. This tradition is known as Masi (in Fiji) or bark cloth, a unique material made from the inner bark of trees.

Fijian Masi (Tapa) Cloth are handcrafted from the mulberry tree bark by skilled Fijian women artisans. These traditional pieces feature detailed intricate designs and motifs to create striking contrasts.

Tapa is the generic term for bark-cloth of the Pacific. However, each Pacific Island nation has their own specific name. Masi is the traditional bark-cloth of Fiji. Made from the paper mulberry tree, Broussonetia papyrifera, masi is made on several islands throughout Fiji.