Polynesian Culture
Tattoos were a significant part of Polynesian culture, serving as markers of identity and social status while having spiritual and protective meanings.
Missionaries and Tatau in Samoa
During the 1860s, missionaries arrived in Samoa to eradicate the traditional tattooing practice known as tatau. Though they succeeded in some areas, the tradition still survives today.
Samoa’s Culture
Samoa, located in the South Pacific, is often praised for its beautiful beaches, but its culture is often overlooked. Tatau ceremonies are still held for both men and women in Samoa, with Tattoos known as pea or malu created using a unique tool called au.
Samoa’s Tatau Survival
Despite efforts by Catholic evangelists to eradicate traditions like Samoan Tatau, several factors led to its survival. The tattoos were a sign of adulthood and privileges, while the decentralized chieftainship system prevented churches from forcing villages to abandon their traditional beliefs.
Tattoo Culture in the Marquesas Islands
The Marquesas Islands in the South Pacific have a captivating culture, including intricate tattooing. Marquesans used Tattoos to represent social standing, pay homage to mythological figures, and adorn their bodies with beautiful symbols.
Proud Tattooed Marquesans
Tattooed Marquesans were proud of their body art. Warriors and family shamans significantly influenced their society, and tattoos were used to mark accomplishments. Boys received their first tattoo at fourteen, while girls received it at twelve as a sign of maturity. Married individuals also got Tattoos on their buttocks to signify readiness for marital roles.
Traditional Tattoos in Hawai’i
Traditional tattooing in Hawai’i is experiencing a comeback. Tattoos are considered a sacred art that conveys spiritual meaning. Ancient Hawaiians used tools resembling bird claws, beaks, or fish bones to carve tattoos into the skin.
Tattoo Artist Makua Nunes
Makua Nunes is a skilled tattoo artist in Hawai’i who follows traditional Polynesian “tapping” techniques. Before tattooing anyone, he conducts interviews to ensure a solid connection to Hawaiian ancestry and culture.
Shared Tattoo Motifs in Polynesia
Polynesia, comprising over 1,000 islands, has a variety of cultures, but there are shared motifs and tattoo styles. Tattoos in Polynesia conveyed information about a person’s societal position and genealogy. Popular tattoo symbols included ocean-inspired designs, turtles representing health and longevity, and Tiki tattoos showcasing power and strength.
