Bonus Episode # 002 As I sat down with Holly Nordlum, a voice from the heart of Kotzebue , Alaska, we found ourselves swept into the profound narrative of Indigenous tattooing and its potential to mend the fragmented spirits within our native communities. Holly, with her Inuk and Norwegian roots, unveils a world where the art of traditional tattooing transcends mere aesthetics, becoming a beacon for cultural revival and a testament to Indigenous resilience. She takes us through the emotional landscapes of her personal and communal struggles, emerging as a mentor determined to safeguard and breathe life into the ancestral practices that have long fostered unity and healing among her people.

This heartfelt conversation spans the breadth of historical wounds to the present-day triumphs in the reclamation of Indigenous heritage. Holly's story, rich in empathy and understanding, serves as a guidepost for those navigating the complex waters of cultural loss and recovery. As she casts light on the shadows of abuse and the deep-seated anti-native sentiments that persist, it becomes clear that this is not just about tattoos—it's about stitching together the fabric of a community with threads of knowledge, support, and pride. Holly's vision for Alaska and its Inuk generations is both a heartfelt rallying cry and an invitation to all listeners to acknowledge and embrace the power of their own histories.

I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. This bonus interview is from my extensive archive of interviews, conversations and presentations I have recorded over the past 8 years. 

Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
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https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks

You can find Holly Mititquq Nordlum (Inupiaq) at:
https://naniqdesign.com/

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