The Paperskin: the art of tapa cloth exhibition at Te Papa is an invitation to celebrate the breathtaking visual sophistication and richness of Pacific tapa. From dramatic and ornate four-metre-high ceremonial masks used in Papua New Guinea, to an impressive 22.7-metre ngatu from Tonga, Paperskin: the art of tapa cloth brings together a stunning selection of over 40 tapa works from around the Pacific. This exhibition also offers a rare and unique opportunity for Te Papa to display some of its largest tapa pieces from its own extensive tapa collection. The exhibition also displays Ngatu pepa, a Tongan ‘barkcloth’ made with Vilene (synthetic fabric) made by ‘Ilo Me’a Fo’ou (New Creations), a Tongan women’s group from Upper Hutt in 1996. This remarkable Tongan ngatu highlights recent local innovations in this ancient art form. Paperskin: the art of tapa cloth is a collaboration between Te Papa, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Queensland Museum. It runs at Te Papa’s Visa Platinum Gallery (Level 4) until 12 September 2010. (Image: Kavat mask, 1971, Kairak Baining people, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea. Purchased 2009, Queensland Art Gallery Foundation Grant. Collection Queensland Art Gallery)
