Transformative Marks Podcast

Strengthening Roots: The Journey of Samoan Tattoo Traditions with Tyla Vaeau


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Bonus #001 Dion Kaszas here, inviting you into a world where every mark tells a story and every line traces a lineage. As Tyla Vaeau, a profound tattoo artist and Samoan cultural practitioner, joins me, we immerse ourselves into the sacred tradition of indigenous tattoo art. Tyla brings to light the unique ways in which traditional Samoan tattooing not only adorns the skin but also strengthens cultural identity, especially for those in the diaspora. Her voice carries the emotional depth of these practices, how they have withstood the trials of colonialism, and the powerful therapeutic impact they hold in healing from past traumas. Delving into personal narratives, we reveal how these ancient markings go beyond aesthetics, serving as lifelines that anchor individuals during life's turbulent phases.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, as Tyla opens up about the delicate dance of cultural preservation in the face of modern challenges such as cultural appropriation and inclusivity. We navigate the responsibilities of those who wear cultural tattoos, their role as custodians of tradition, and the importance of voicing out when sacred symbols are misappropriated. The discussions also throw light on the inclusive future of female tattoo artists within the Samoan tradition. Wrapping things up, an uplifting message awaits our listeners, acknowledging your unique stories and encouraging the sharing of our collective journey towards cultural reverence and transformation. Join us for this intimate and enlightening conversation that celebrates the resilient tapestry of indigenous tattoo art and its indelible impact on cultural identity.

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. 

You can check out Tyla and her work @
https://www.instagram.com/tylatattoo/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/tylatattoo/

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

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

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Transformative Marks PodcastBy Dion Kaszas