PRESERVING TRADITION AND EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES: THE SIAPO ARTISANS OF PALAULI
(Photo: Supplied)
In the heart of Palauli village, nestled in the scenic landscape of Savaii, Samoa, the ancient art of siapo thrives under the skillful hands of Tusiata Lemuelu and her family. Siapo, also known as tapa cloth, is not just a traditional craft for the Lemuelu family; it's a lifeline, a source of income that sustains their family, supports their community, and preserves their cultural heritage.
The art of siapo making has been passed down through generations in Tusiata's family, from her grandmother, Faamuli Salu, to her mother, Faapito, and now to Tusiata and her siblings. For them, siapo making is more than just a craft; it's a tradition deeply ingrained in their identity. "My grandmother taught us the importance of carrying forward our traditions," Tusiata reflects, highlighting the profound connection they have with their heritage.
The siapo making process is a labor-intensive journey that begins with the careful selection and harvesting of paper mulberry tree bark. This bark is then stripped, soaked, and meticulously beaten into thin, workable sheets. After being sun-dried and mended, the siapo is adorned with natural dyes, creating the distinctive and vibrant designs that characterize this traditional art form.
But siapo making is not just about preserving tradition; it's also about community empowerment. Tusiata emphasizes how their small business contributes to the economic prosperity of their community. By engaging other families in growing the necessary materials, they ensure the sustainability of their craft while supporting local livelihoods.
Embracing modernity, Tusiata has expanded their reach through social media, connecting their traditional craft with a global audience. The power of platforms like Facebook has allowed them to receive orders from around the world, showcasing their tradition and educating others about its value.
Their dedication has not gone unnoticed. Recently, Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality, Ms. Stephanie Copus-Campbell, visited Tusiata and her family to learn more about their craft. She was inspired by their commitment to preserving the art of siapo and sharing it with the world. "It's a powerful reminder of how traditional crafts can empower women, sustain cultural heritage, and contribute to economic development," Ambassador Campbell remarked.
Tusiata's journey extends beyond siapo making. Despite being known as the "siapo making family" at school, she has pursued higher education in agriculture, a field heavily dominated by men in Samoa. Through an Australian scholarship, she completed her master’s degree in agriculture, focusing on local consumer attitudes towards sheep meat in Samoa.
Now working as a consultant for agricultural initiatives, Tusiata is using her skills to help her family and community thrive. "In rural communities, we always need help with farming," she explains. "This is why I chose to study agriculture, to be able to help my family and my community."
On International Women’s Day, Tusiata's story serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of Samoan women. Through their dedication to preserving tradition and embracing new challenges, women like Tusiata, her mother, and her grandmother empower their communities and inspire future generations to uphold their cultural heritage with pride.