TAPA OF THE PACIFIC - Samoan Siapo

In Samoa there are only a few women still practising this age old art form.  Samoans call their tapa 'Siapo'.

Two women on Upolu are carrying on the siapo tradition using the upeti board rubbing technique with tools handed down to them through the generations.

* This video pays tribute to siapo artist Sylvia Hanipale who sadly passed away during the measles epidemic, leaving behind the legacy of her craft and her beautiful talent as a siapo maker in Samoa.