Impalas with Sheep
Signed by the Artist
"Bark Cloth", Handmade Artist Paint
12" x 16", framed

This "Bark Cloth" was created by a local artist in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, Africa.

This simple but beautiful "fabric," has been a part of Uganda's identity for over 600 years. It's not just cloth; it is a skilled art passed down through generations and made by workers known as "bark beaters."

To make the cloth, only the bark is removed, and the tree grows back again, making the practice sustainable and eco-friendly. The process begins early when the bark is soft. The outer bark of the tree is peeled away to reach the inner bark and removed in one long piece without permanently harming the tree. The tree is then wrapped in banana leaves to heal and be harvested again.

The stripped bark is boiled in water to soften it, and then laid on a wooden block and beaten with a special mallet for hours. This makes the bark wider, softer and cloth-like. It can take an entire day to finish one piece. When dried in the sun, it develops a rusty brown color and may be dyed, shaped further, used for many articles of clothing or creating a "canvas" for local artwork.

Impalas were wild in Uganda, Africa, before the British arrived in the 19th century. The king used the hills as a private hunting ground. This is how Kampala, the capitol of Uganda, got its name. Because they are very hardy and resilient, Dorper sheep are actively raised to boost household incomes, particularly for youth and women.

Please note: This item is not eligible for shipping. If you are unable to pick up at Zootopia, please contact [email protected] to make alternate arrangements.