Siapo Making Workshop: The Living Art of Samoan Bark Cloth

Tapa is a traditional barkcloth made from the inner bark of trees found in the Pacific Islands. It has a rich history and plays a central role in the culture of these islands. 

In Samoa, the term for tapa is "siapo." In this workshop, you will explore its origins, production methods, uses, and design styles. 

You will also learn about the differences and unique characteristics of siapo making from two distinct lineages: Siutu (Samoa: Tusolo Aumale) and Leone (American Samoa: Regina Meredith).

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This event is presented as part of "LUMI - The wisdom of island peoples"

LUMI fosters authentic cultural collaboration, reciprocity and relationships between First Nations and Pasifika peoples across the island of Lutruwita. LUMI celebrates the ancient pathways of the Pacific, where ocean currents have carried stories, knowledge and peoples between islands since time immemorial.

Aboriginal and Pasifika peoples have long been connected through shared stewardship of these vast blue waters. Developed in collaboration between communities, this intimate program of workshops and events preserves and promotes traditional knowledge, forging bonds across communities and inviting the wider public to experience and share traditional cultural practices of song, dance, ceremony and food.

LUMI weaves together the wisdom of island peoples, honouring ancient connections while nurturing new ones.

Thank you to the following individuals, communities and organisations for their contribution to this program:
Palawa and Pasifika Communities connected to this place
Creative Australia
Festivals Australia
Glenorchy City Council
Moonah Arts Centre
Pakana kanaplila
Performing Lines Tas
Takani Clark
Karadi
Samoan Cultural Collective Tas
SA/MOA Project
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Moonah Arts Centre and Glenorchy City Council acknowledge the Muwinina people as the traditional owners of this Land on which we gather. We recognise all Tasmanian Aboriginal people as the original owners and continuing custodians of the land and waters of this island, Lutruwita. We pay our respect to Aboriginal Elders, past and present. We commit to working for a City that welcomes and respects all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

SAFE SPACE
We believe in safe and positive spaces where all people are welcome and respected. If you experience or see something that doesn’t look right, please report it to one of our friendly staff.

ACCESSIBILITY
The venue is fully accessible with seats available for patrons with mobility issues and areas for wheelchairs. If you require assistance, please make contact via moonahartscentre@gcc.tas.gov.au before purchasing tickets, our venue staff will be happy to assist.

If you hold a government-issued Companion Card for people with disabilities who require a companion and are purchasing a full-priced ticket to our event, you may be eligible for one free ticket for your companion, please contact moonahartscentre@gcc.tas.gov.au directly for more information.