The International Tattoo* Convention has been advertised heavily of late on my favourite morning drive-time radio station, and that has made me think to tell you about ta moko.
Ta moko is the traditional Maori art form of tattoo. It's similar to Polynesian tatau styles, but tends to incorporate more spiral or fern shapes. Choosing to accept ta moko is a spiritual act that visually links you with your geneology, your land, and your tribal history. It is not to be taken lightly. If nothing else, it's serious business just because the earnest practitioners use the traditional chisels, mallets, and pine-soot based pigment.
Ta moko designs can be placed anywhere on the body. But by far the most striking are the facial designs. Men typically mark their entire faces. Women's designs are usually restricted to the lips and chin. I think they're quite beautiful.
*That's 'TADD-oo' in the NZ accent.
1 comment:
These Are impressive.
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