Transformative Marks Podcast

#013 Embark on a profound exploration of Filipino tattooing with my guest, Natalia Roxas, whose journey from reluctance to becoming a hand-tapped tattoo practitioner unveils the rich tapestry of cultural identity and personal transformation. Natalia's narrative, intertwined with my own experiences as a Hungarian, Metis, and Nlaka'pamux professional tattoo artist, sheds light on the ancestral art that is much more than skin deep. Together, we navigate the teachings of our mentors, the spiritual dimensions of ancestral communication, and the responsibility of wielding traditional bone tools in our craft.

As we unfurl the mat of wisdom – a symbol of school, sacred space, and church in indigenous communities – the stories of our teachers and the traditions of the 185 ethnolinguistic groups in the Philippines come to life. This episode goes beyond tattoo marks; it’s about the connections we forge, the compassion we harbor for our diasporic ancestors, and the resonance of their love and resilience that shape us. Listeners will find solace in our shared narratives, understanding the significance of these traditions in a modern context, and the humanity that underscores our practices.

Concluding our session, we contemplate the balance between honoring our heritage and adapting to the present day. We discuss the spiritual identity that comes with embracing one's roots, the importance of integrity in our work, and the transformational power of love. It's a call to recognize your worth, to bring forth compassion, and to contribute to the global tapestry with purpose. Tune in for an evocative discussion that promises an introspective view into the world of indigenous tattooing and the indelible marks it leaves on both body and soul.

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. 

You can find Natalia at:
Instagram @nataliarxs
https://www.nataliaroxas.com/

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

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#012 When the ink settles into the skin, it's not just a tattoo – it's a legacy being etched. Join me and the talented Cree tattoo artist Poppy Del as we traverse the vibrant juncture of cultural tattoo art and Indigenous heritage. Poppy unveils her intimate connection to her contemporary cultural tattoo practices, all the while balancing the beams of social media's double-edged sword. We're stitching together stories of her beloved English Bulldogs, the enduring influence of her father, and how these personal threads are interwoven with the tattoos that mark both skin and soul.

Transitioning through the realms of modeling, makeup, and hairstyling, Poppy found her true calling in the buzz of the tattoo machine. She pulls back the veil on her design process, from the initial spark of inspiration to the final reveal on appointment day, while shedding light on the digital revolution that's reshaping her craft. And as we sketch out her apprenticeship journey, you'll discover how every line drawn and every color filled is a testament to her thoughtful approach, ensuring each tattoo not only adorns but also honors the body it lives on.

This episode is not just about the art of tattooing; it's an exploration into the renaissance of Indigenous tattooing traditions as a form of academic interest and community connection. From the hum of conventions to the silent depth of cultural ceremony, we unpack the significance of these practices in today's world. So, immerse yourself in a story that celebrates transformation, love, and the intricate designs that bind us to our roots.

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. 

You can find Poppy at:
Instagram @poppy_del

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

Support the show

#011 When Heather Kiskihkoman inked her skin, it was more than a tattoo—it was a homecoming. Our journey together in this episode is a deep exploration of identity, heritage, and the transformative power of traditional tattooing. Heather's tale encapsulates her move from a reserve in Alberta to the freeing streets of Europe and back, weaving her Indigenous roots into her very skin. She shares the poignant act of reclaiming her family name, Kiskihkoman and how it kickstarted her passion for the ancestral craft of skin marking.

As we share stories, we shed light on the importance of tangible community connections and the rich experiences that unfold during in-person events. The art of creating with one's hands, whether it be through hide tanning or crafting items ingrained with cultural significance, emerges as a healing practice. We examine how Heather's own path led her away from her teaching career, steering her towards a more fulfilling life of service and self-care. The discussions reveal that stepping back from our relentless professional demands can actually be the stepping stone to a more impactful community contribution.

Navigating the intimate realm of tattooing, Heather and I unravel the emotional layers entailed in this art form. This episode peels back the curtain on the intricacies of hosting tattoo sessions—the sacred space, the deep preparation, and the mutual respect between tattooist and recipient. We also probe the delicate balance of preserving tradition while embracing modernity in tattoo designs, acknowledging our role as creators of tomorrow's history. Join us as we explore the profound connections between the art of tattooing, community healing, and the unending quest for self-discovery and cultural affirmation.

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. 

Check out Heather's work at:
Instagram @osawayisis

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

Support the show

#010 Sitting across from me, Terje Koloamatangi, a Tongan cultural tattoo practitioner, shares his ink-infused wisdom, revealing how each etching on our skin can tether us to our ancestors. As we savor the ceremonial kava, Terje recounts his initiation into tattoo artistry under the tutelage of a Samoan master, igniting a passion for reviving traditional Pacific methods. Our conversation takes you through the heart of Tonga, where the ritualistic kava ceremonies are not just about drink, but about connection, history, and the indelible marks of identity.

The late Paulo's legacy casts a long shadow in our discussion, as we honor his seminal role in the Pacific tattoo renaissance. His untimely departure left a chasm, inspiring Terje's journey into the depths of tattoo research and ultimately birthing the Indigenous Ink Tattoo Festival. Here, tattoo artists from distant corners of the earth converge, sharing stories and skills, and celebrating the vibrancy of ancient traditions in contemporary culture. We honor the connections forged in ink and flesh, and the collective effort to keep the embers of traditional tattooing aglow in our global village.

The final strokes of our dialogue paint a picture of cultural authenticity that transcends the mere tools of the trade. We share stories of inspiration drawn from war clubs to whispering tattoos, underscoring the belief that genuine expression is bound not by the implements, but by the spirit behind the symbolism. As we venture through museum 'junk drawers' and reflect on rediscovered Tongan tattooing instruments, we invite listeners to grasp the tactile history and the importance of preserving the visual languages that define our shared human tapestry. Join us in a reverent exploration of the ink that writes our past and inscribes our future.

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. 

You can find Terje at:
Instagram @terje_k
YouTube: @terjekoloamatangi2946

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

Support the show

#009 As my fingers danced across the skin, ushering ink into a permanent home, I found a connection deeper than I had ever anticipated. Joining me on today's Transformative Marks podcast journey is Keith Callihoo, whose own hands have crafted stories into the skin, reviving the sacred practice of traditional tattooing. Together, we traverse the intimate paths of ancestral skin marking, discovering how each deliberate mark carries a narrative far beyond its visual appeal. Keith shares his enlightening transition from conventional tattooing to a role steeped in cultural significance and personal empowerment. We immerse ourselves in tales that celebrate the resilience of Indigenous practices and the heartfelt influence of maternal legacies on our identities.

With Keith's insights, we uncover the critical roles of women in shaping our journeys and the essential dialogue on men's healing in the face of historical adversity. The episode unfolds the layers of vulnerability inherent in the art of tattooing, acknowledging the sacred trust between artist and client. Through our conversation, we honor the stitches that bind our communities, weaving a fabric of shared experiences and collective wisdom. We delve into the heart of Indigenous identity, recognizing the power of face markings as a statement of defiance and cultural resurgence. Our discussion also navigates the contentious topic of reconciliation, advocating for an internal healing that radiates outward, fortifying community bonds.

Beyond the skin, we explore the diverse expressions of Indigenous artistry, from carving to painting, and how they inform and enrich the tattooing practice. We also examine the importance of knowledge exchange, particularly the mentorship of the next generation, as seen in the inclusion of Keith's daughter in his tattooing adventures. The episode serves as a tribute to the importance of parental presence, the enrichment brought by travel and shared experiences, and the careful transmission of cultural practices with respect and safety. Through this rich tapestry of conversation, we invite you to engage with us, celebrating the beauty of artistic mediums, the vibrancy of cultural influences, and the essential act of passing wisdom to future custodians of our heritage.

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. 

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

Support the show

#008 When Tristen Jenni Sanderson gracefully maneuvered her path from the structured world of construction to the fluid lines of tattoo artistry, she didn't just change professions; she embraced a calling that would weave together stories of loss, heritage, and healing. My latest conversation invites you on an introspective journey with Tristen, an Indigenous tattoo artist from Chakastaypasin band, whose work transcends mere ink on skin to become a conduit for personal and collective narratives. Her tattoos are the stitches that bind the fabric of individual identities to the expansive quilt of Indigenous culture, a legacy passed down from her father's regalia making and her Kookum's Starquilt crafting.

This episode digs deeper than the surface of the skin, into the heart of what it means to carry and overcome trauma while clutching tightly to one's roots. Tristen and I share not just stories but strategies for navigating the delicate balance between absorbing clients' emotional experiences and safeguarding our own mental health. It's a candid look at the unique pressures faced by tattoo artists and the ceremonies we perform to maintain our spiritual well-being amidst the challenges of the craft. With Tristan's wisdom as our guide, we traverse the landscape of mental and emotional health for creatives, highlighting the therapeutic power tattoos hold within Indigenous communities.

What does it mean to revive an ancestral visual language in a modern world? Tristen's artistry offers a profound reply, as we celebrate the resurgence of Indigenous designs traditionally worn with pride on the body. But the conversation reaches beyond the ink—it's an homage to the burgeoning impact of Indigenous representation in all spheres, from the arts to the everyday success stories that shape the aspirations of Indigenous youth. Join us as we honor the transformative power of tattooing, not just as an art form, but as a medium that bridges generations, heals spirits, and tells the stories that might otherwise be left untold.

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. 

Check out Tristen's work at:
Instagram @tristen.jenni.art

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 

Support the show

#007 Embark on a vibrant journey through the art of Indigenous tattooing, as I'm joined by Nahaan, a Tlingit tattoo artist whose skilled hands tell stories as old as time. Our conversation bridges the physical ink to the spiritual realm, uncovering the layers of personal growth and communal healing encapsulated in each design. Nahaan, with the wisdom of his grandmother's teachings, reveals how the centuries-old tradition of the potlatch ceremony intertwines with the resilience and reclamation of our cultural identity through the indelible marks of our ancestors.

Step into the sanctity of traditional tattooing, where every puncture of the skin resonates with an ancient song and honors the spirits that guide us. Nahaan and I dissect the essence of our environmental and spiritual connection, discussing how traditional hand poke techniques preserve more than just our artistry—they safeguard the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the sacred agreements within. This sharing of knowledge unfolds as a tapestry of stories, illustrating how non-electric tattooing methods maintain a harmonious existence with nature and fortify the fabric of our heritage.

The revival of indigenous tattooing is not merely an artistic movement; it's a testament to the undiminished strength of our cultures in the face of past and present adversities. We navigate the waters of cultural preservation and the significance of unity against the backdrop of cultural appropriation, fostering a community that educates and stands firm against the tides of commodification. With Nahaan's insights, we celebrate the resurgence of traditional tattoos as a symbol of empowerment, identity, and the unbroken thread connecting us to our rich ancestral wisdom. Join us as we honor the tapestry of Indigenous artistry, its evolution, and its enduring power to connect generations.

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. 

Check out Nahaan's work at:
Instagram @chilkat_tattoo

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

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

Support the show

#006 Embark with me, Dion Kaszas, and the inimitable Gordon Sparks, as we weave a narrative tapestry that spans the personal and the cultural, the ancestral and the contemporary. This episode is a journey through the soulful terrain of Indigenous tattoo practices, where each inked line and curve is a homage to the stories that define us. Gordon, hailing from Pabineau First Nation, brings his rich cultural lineage to the forefront, illustrating how intuition and storytelling are not just facets of his work but the heartbeat of his identity as a tattoo artist.

Our conversation traverses the sacred landscapes of Mi'kmaq teachings, Gord's reconnection with his roots through sculpting and mask-making, and the broader struggles of reclaiming cultural identity in a world that often seems to have forgotten the past. We share the transformative potential found within ancestral wisdom, and how the simple, yet profound acts like participating in sweat lodges and talking circles, can offer solace and understanding in our communities. Every tattoo, every carved line in wood is a testament to the journey—one of healing, of discovery, and of paying homage to the elders who guide us still.

Through these stories, we shine a light on the power of visual language in Indigenous art, as it intertwines with our identities and the natural world we are a part of. We discuss the evolution of tattooing from its rudimentary beginnings to the profound tool it is today—a medium through which we chronicle our tales and honor the teachings of the land. Join us as we explore the importance of mentorship, the resonance of mask medicine, and the encounters that inspire a deeper appreciation of our heritage. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to witness the profound connection we share with the earth and each other, through the art that narrates our existence.

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. 

Check out Gordon's work at:
Instagram @gordonsparkstattoos

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 

Support the show

#005 When Natalie Standingcloud etches stories into skin, each line is more than art—it's heritage, history, and identity. Today, she grants us a glimpse into her world, where tattoos are a canvas for the Salish and Cherokee stories that run as deep as the ink. As Natalie weaves her personal tale, we travel the threads of her cultural tapestry, learning how a single tattoo can mark the beginning of a woman's journey, serve as an emblem of indomitable spirit, and bind her to the roots that hold her steadfast against the winds of time.

Embark on an emotional ride with us as Natalie recounts the sweat and tears of the Remember the Removal Bike Ride, where the asphalt miles under her wheels brought her face to face with the legacy of the Trail of Tears. Her voice carries the weight of generations, each word a step closer to understanding what it means to be Cherokee in heart and in spirit. As we traverse the realms of acting and comedy with Natalie's experiences, from community theater's embrace to the spotlight with the 1491s and "Reservation Dogs," we see the mosaic of humor and drama that shapes Native American identity today.

Natalie's narrative doesn't end at the edge of the stage; it extends to the catwalks of New York Fashion Week, where her strides echo the pride of Cherokee artists. Her journey of self-discovery, which challenges the notion that one must excel in a singular creative field, paints a portrait of a woman whose essence is mirrored in every facet of her work. Join us as Natalie Standingcloud shares a masterclass not just on Indigenous tattooing, but on living a life where every mark, every role, and every walk is a testament to the enduring stories of her ancestors.

Check out Nathalie's work at:
Instagram @nattatt8

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

Support the show

#004 When life throws a curveball, it's the resilience within us that crafts our most profound stories. Join me as I sit down with Nolan, a Beauval-born tattoo artist, whose life took an unexpected turn from aspiring athlete to a master of ink and culture. His narrative is a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength that emerges from the ashes of shattered dreams, amplified through the deep connections between his art and Indigenous heritage. In our conversation, Nolan opens up about the car accident that rerouted his destiny and the pivotal role of a friend who saw his unmined potential, setting him on the path to tattoo artistry. 

Embarking on a journey toward self-discovery isn't without its hurdles. Nolan's candid tales of growth, from the initial hesitance to embrace a new identity to the eventual fusion of personal and cultural expression in his tattoo work, are nothing short of inspiring. He highlights the importance of evolving artistically, taking risks, and the intrinsic value of incorporating indigenous narratives into his designs. This episode peels back the layers of Nolan's artistic metamorphosis, celebrating his bold leap from the safety net of a teaching career to the creative freedoms of tattooing full-time.

The power of storytelling in our episode does not end with Nolan's transformative experiences. It extends to the communal journey of resilience, the emotional depth of ancestral tattooing, and the profound impact of setting boundaries. We traverse through powerful moments at an Indigenous tattoo gathering and the soulful connections that can only be forged through shared heritage and art. As we wrap up our time together, we leave you with a sense of anticipation for what's to come, including an upcoming conversation with Natalie Standingcloud, another remarkable artist whose journey is bound to captivate and inspire.

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. 

Check out Nolan's work at:
Instagram @malbeuf

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 

Support the show