하와이 전통 카파(Kapa)에 관한 연구

A Study on the Traditional Kapa(Bark cloth) of Hawai'i

The purpose of this study is to analyze Kapa, the traditional bark cloth of Hawaii, including materials, method of manufacture, and colors and patterns, and to show the characteristics of Kapa to identify traditional culture of Hawaii as well as the unique culture of cloth of Hawaii in tropical area. The method of study is qualitative research using documentary records about Kapa. The cultivated Wauke proved to be the best material for bark cloth in Hawaii. The manufacture of Kapa was made by beating divided into two stages. The dyes for coloring were very different due to the existence of various plants. Indigenous Hawaiians showed the unique textures like grooving and watermarks, and the various designs in their Kapa. The characteristics of Hawaiian Kapa appear the symbol of some colors, the preference of geometrical patterns, the various uses of Kapa, and perfumed Kapa. Through these characteristics of Hawaiian Kapa, the traditional culture of indigenous Hawaiian can be understood very well. This study will help people understand indigenous bark cloth of tropical areas including Hawaii.