Ep 006 Ink and Identity: Unearthing the Resonance of Indigenous Tattoo Narratives with Gordon Sparks

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 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