Learn how to make a traditional Peloponnesian Greek applique floor rug (or mat) with artist Niki Sperou

During this workshop Niki will introduce you to the art of Tapita.

Tapita is a word is used to describe a floor rug (or mat) in Niki's mother's ancestral village, located in the Peloponnesian region of Greece.

Niki will share examples of her mother’s (her mother made them for the family as birth or dowry gifts) and her own personal work, including the narratives behind them. This will assist you to understand the cultural context of a Tapita. Niki will also discuss how these traditional techniques have been adapted and adopted into her own contemporary practice.

As the day progresses, you will produce a sampler piece of work that incorporates traditional colours, motifs, borders, embroidery and applique techniques.

At the end of the workshop you will come away with the skills to produce your own Tapita and the understanding of how to adapt the techniques learnt to your own creative practice.

About the workshop facilitator

Niki Sperou is an Australian artist of Greek heritage. Early in her career she focused on multiculturalism and socially engaged practice. Later she combined Greek narrative and wet biology into her work to explore what it means to be biological. However, the textile skills passed from one generation to another in her family have been ever-present in her personal and professional life.

The traditional craft skills shared during this workshop were taught to her by her mother who was born in 1924. She made them as a birth or dowry gifts. As she grew older and frail, Niki helped her to make them for the family. As an artist who also studied dress design and garment construction, Niki adopted the technique into her contemporary practice.

What you need to know

Suitable for beginners 18 years and older (Some needle work experience required).
We supply the materials.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer attend this workshop, please email nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au before 5pm, Friday 20 June 2025. After this time and date we cannot issue refunds.
Bring a packed lunch. Tea and coffee provided.

This workshop is presented as part of Fabrik's Heritage Workshop Program, a series of skills development and cultural knowledge-sharing workshops hosted by makers who reflect the rich heritage of our diverse communities.

We are currently looking for makers who may wish to share their inherited or culturally diverse creative skills. Find out how to apply here.

Inclusion in the Fabrik mailing list

By registering for a Fabrik workshop or event your name and email address will be added to our contact list. This means from time to time you will receive Fabrik program updates by email. If you wish to opt out, please email the Public Programs Officer (nvouis@ahc.sa.gov.au) directly with Contact List Opt-Out in the subject heading and your full name in the message.

Image (top): Niki Sperou, Ode to Bioart (Memory Quilt) (detail), 2026, handmade applique quilt, cotton on wool. Image taken by Sam Sperou.

Image (Below): Handmade applique quilt created by Niki Sperou's mother, aged 90 years. Image provided by the artist.

Contact the host of Tapita Applique Workshop

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