Samoa

Tattooing

The method of Samoan tattooing has changed little over the centuries, although it is now being performed outside of Samoa and is sometimes being...
Samoan Elei Siapo made with an elei pattern board. Siapo by Sylvia and Sina Hanipale. Photograph by Vanya Taule’alo

Siapo

Samoan Siapo is made from the u’a tree, (Broussonetia papyrifera). The making of siapo is labour intensive and involves stripping the bark, beating and...