African Bark Cloth

Bark cloth is made and used in several parts of the world. In Hawaii, it is known as Tapa Cloth, and it is painted with bold geometric designs in Earth colors like black, brown, and white.

In Mexico, the Bark Cloth is painted in bright colors depicting flora and fauna.

In Africa, Bark Cloth was once used to make wearable garments. Today, most Bark Cloth is found in Ghana and Nigeria. It is made from the inner bark of the Badie Tree. When stripped, soaked and beaten, it produces a fine soft material.

The Bark Cloth is a light brown color, and since it is not woven, designs are stamped or painted on the surface. The best Bark Cloth is decorated with black dye and made especially for royal families.

Criteria for Brainstorming

• All squares on the newsprint paper should be filled

• Each square is based on a geometric design

• Each square experiments with pattern and color (Red, Black, White)

• Each square experiments with balance