#045 Simon Ross invites us into the vibrant world of Indigenous tattoo artistry, sharing his journey of cultural reconnection and storytelling through his tattoos. Discover how a chance encounter at a tattoo festival with Dion Kaszas, a Hungarian Métis and Nlaka'pamux tattoo artist, sparked a collaboration that went beyond mere body art. Their work is a testament to the deep personal and cultural connections that Indigenous tattoos embody, blending traditional hand poke techniques with contemporary interpretations that honor ancestry and cultural narratives.

Take a step into a historic gathering at the Museum of Vancouver, where Indigenous tattoo artists from diverse cultures, including Maori and Cherokee, unified to mark a pivotal moment in Canada's Indigenous tattoo movement. Simon reflects on the Nlaka'pamux Blackwork Project, a transformative initiative that fostered emotional and cultural reconnection, revealing unexpected familial ties within communities. This gathering underscored the importance of Indigenous presence in cultural spaces, promoting unity and support among community members while highlighting the growth of Indigenous tattoo artistry.

Explore the broader implications of Indigenous tattoos, from personal transformation to cultural identity, and learn about the empowering role of Indigenous leadership programs at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Simon discusses the significance of visual representation in storytelling and the mentorship that helps preserve and evolve Indigenous tattoo practices. This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder of our collective power to create positive change and supports Indigenous voices while celebrating their artistry and heritage.

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas

Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, Arts Nova Scotia and Support4Culture. 

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