Samoan Tatau

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The most special experience!! The profession of traditional Samoan tattooing is passed down generation to generation. I was honored to watch my aunts receive their Malu tattoos (highly respected full-body tattoos for Samoan women) earlier this month, and watch my dad and sister receive their Samoan Tatau a few days ago. These traditional tapped-in tattoos were so special because they were generational; my dad received his first Tatau (the small band in the middle) during his time in the Peace Corps 25 years ago from Suluape Paulo II, and he and my sister just received their Tatau from the son - Suluape Paulo III. The Suluape name is known around the world for traditional Samoan tattooing.

Though I did not get one because I wanted my first one to be with a machine (which will be later this year, in Scotland with Lina!), I was so proud to watch my family endure this extremely painful process with utmost poise and respect. I was even more thrilled and thankful that I was allowed to film it, as I don’t think I’ll be able to get footage like this ever again!

The sound is just from the experience - video is somewhat of a sound essay. Next time, will add a song from the Moana soundtrack. ;)

Extra notes: the artist uses a small instrument to strike the arm with force, so the teeth drive the ink deep into the flesh, while two skin-stretchers assist him. Lina says: "Of my three tattoos (one by machine, another by bamboo), this was the most painful yet most incredible experience." The receivers of the Tatau do not get to choose the design - the artist looks at the receiver and decides on the design himself.

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