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Samoan Inspired Art
We are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful country which embraces cultural diversity. To celebrate Samoan language week, we introduce “Siapo”. Siapo, also known as tapa, is one of the oldest Samoan cultural art forms. For centuries Siapo has been passed from generation to generation. Siapo is not only a decorative art, it is a symbol of Samoan culture. Samoan language week consisted of carefully planned experiences that would shed a little light on the Samoan culture, we learnt new songs Le Aute, Savalivali and siva (dance) Samoa and read a new book about the myth and legend of the Tatau Samoa.
In connections to learning about the intricate patterns of the tatau Samoa we offered a provocation of Siapo or tapa like sheets of paper with a range of designs and patterns. With this they were given the opportunity to observe and develop their very own patterns and designs. Through having displays and images through out the week they were able to identify and create their very own unique Samoan inspired art. They were able to incorporate and weave their own thoughts and the different things they had learnt and express it on their Siapo sheets.
This inspired each and every child to explore through self-expression and communicating ideas and thoughts. To learn about people, places and things that surround them. It allowed them to become more aware of their multicultural community and the many Samoan peers that belong to their Kindy. It also helped tamariki explore art forms that may be similar within their own cultures and be able to recognize some patterns. With the clear sheet of paper and the felt as their form of communication they were able to explore and express power of communicating through the are of drawing.