We would like to show you some beautiful pictures from one of the activities in the course of Tapati Festival 2021 on Easter Island, which takes place this week.
At the marae of Haŋa Piko, five competitions were completed simultaneously: tiŋi mahute, flower necklace making, Mōai, Roŋo Roŋo and and Maŋai carving.
Tiŋi tiŋi Mahute is made from the bark of a shrub growing on the island called "Mahute" (Broussonetia papyrifera). This bark is stripped from the branch, soaked and then gently beaten with a wooden stick, and shaped and lengthened in this way until a thin cloth is obtained. This requires concentration, dexterity and skill to avoid making holes or tearing off pieces. The result is a fiber cloth from which clothes and capes can be made, and on which beautiful drawings can be applied with kiea (clay of volcanic origin from Rapa Nui).
The event fascinated all participants. It was wonderful to see the children participate with such enthusiasm and we are like one big family here, just with the people who live on this magical island!
