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Traditionally, Maori tattoos were carved into the skin using a small instrument made of albatross bone, and took months of careful, agonized planning. They were typically worn by men of high rank. Women who were tattooed were only allowed designs upon their lips, chin and nostrils. Today, however, the process of Ta Moko has become one of the most popular styles of ‘tribal’ tattooing. The designs associated with Maori tattoos have a definite aesthetic appeal, but to many people they mean a good deal more than that. They are often used as a symbol of cultural identity, and the designs used may represent things such as genealogy, history or even beauty (as full, blue hued lips have long been considered as the ‘ideal’ of female Maori beauty).
Modern Maori tattoos (especially in the west) have moved from the face to the body. Long, twining spiral designs that were once placed near the ears or cheeks are now placed along the arms or legs. However, many Maori people find exact replicas of their art insulting. For this reason, many people who are not affiliated with the Maoris prefer to use designs inspired, but not directly taken from, these traditional styles.
One way to separate the Maori tattoos, and what could possibly be an insulting western
rendition is to use the striking spirals to create other symbols. For instance, rather than
using the rounded and graceful spirals, you could make a squared off version, and create an
interesting puzzle-like pattern. You could also use heavy lines and create a scene of waves, clouds, billowing winds, or even fire. Many people like to include reds and dark shades of blue into their designs; they will occasionally use orange and yellow as well if their patterns include things such as the sun, moon or stars. Metallic colors are generally used to produce weapon designs such as intricate knives, swords, or even throwing stars. Burgundy and purple can be used for a variety of spiraling flower blossoms.
Given the beauty of these designs, it may be tempting to delve into this style of art, but it is important to remember that they have a significant meaning to the Maori people. Tattooing is considered a sacred act, and must — like any other cultural symbol — be respected.
Related >> Armband Tattoos, Hebrew Tattoos, Henna Tattoos, Mythology Tattoos, Polynesian Tattoos, Tribal Tattoos
I like the look of maori tattoo art but the sad fact is no body seems to know the real meanings
even the tattoo guys where i live in the usa dont know.
I would rather have a design that has a meaning.
So i found a great site where this Maori guy who lives in New Zealand the land of the Maoris is the one expert in this field. HIs name is Tiki Obrien just google his name and you will see what i mean.
Sadly i couldnt afford his work cause im only a student but someday will save up cause I recon hes the real deal and knows all the meanings to the Maori symbols.
laters
Staceystar
Kia ora stacey,it is good that you have taken great thought into this,as this will and does mean alot to our people and culture.I am and have been living in australia for 17 years and carry my culture with mana(pride).If i was to see you or knew you, and ask the meaning and you didnt know that would be highly insulting and for the tatooists who do my peoples tatooing,should not…at all….under any circumstances..to us it is not simply a job..it is a way of life…that should not be abused in any mannerism….simply to make a dollar…so stacey i tautoko(support) you e hoa(friend) for your wise and respectful decision….on behalf of my whanau(family)..thank you bro….amber pureau brisbane queensland australia
Hi, I’m also considering getting a Maori tattoo… I have not had any tattoos done yet, but I plan to get a few in the next couple of years. I decided to look into Maori designs because, obviously, they look great, but I also wanted something that had a meaning… and I’ve visited NZ before and it was the most beautiful place I have ever been to. I currently live in Australia, but I really wouldn’t mind moving to NZ, it’s so great.
I completely respect the Maori people and culture, so are you saying that it would only be an insult if the wearer of such designs didn’t know the meaning and only got it cos it looked ‘cool’? Or is it insulting if the wearer isn’t related to Maori people in the first place? I can imagine how frustrating it would be to see kids running around with Maori designs just because they look awesome, without giving any thought to the creators…
Luke.
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