Exhibitions / Tatau: Marks of Polynesia
Samoa’s tatau and Japan’s irezumi are among the world’s most distinct living tattoo traditions. Tatau is an indigenous art form with a history that dates back 2,000 years. It has played a pivotal role in the preservation and propagation of Samoan culture, having survived multiple attempts at eradication. In Samoa, tufuga tā tatau (master tattoo artists) are granted high status in society, and acquiring tatau is considered a powerful affirmation of national identity, particularly for young men, for whom it is an important rite of passage.
Tatau: Marks of Polynesia was produced by the Japanese American National Museum and was toured internationally by Flying Fish.