Ep 014 Carving Echoes of The Land: The Revival of Māori Tattoo Traditions with Que Bidois

Step into a world where the lines on skin tell stories of mountains and rivers, of ancestors and identity. Our esteemed guest Que Bidois guides us through the sacred art of Moko, revealing how Māori introductions are deeply rooted in the geography of Aotearoa and reflected in the unique tattoo patterns of each tribe. Que uncovers the unexpected custodians of this tradition, from gang members to prisoners, and their role in a cultural renaissance that intertwines personal significance with communal heritage. Witness the wharenui's carved narratives that have withstood time, and understand how these ancestral blueprints shape Māori identity.

Join us as we celebrate the resurgence of Māori tattooing, an art form that once faced the threat of extinction under colonial oppression. Que shares the challenges and triumphs of the younger generation's quest to reclaim this poignant aspect of their culture, embracing traditional tools and techniques over modern conveniences. This episode isn't just about ink on skin—it's a homage to the sounds, the patience, and the dedication that breathes life into Māori artistry, ensuring that these traditions resonate with future generations.

Feel the pull of the past and the push towards the future as this discussion transcends tattooing, delving into the broader implications of reviving indigenous cultural knowledge. While Que Bidois illuminates the importance of balancing the authenticity of Māori practices with the demands of a capitalist society, we are reminded of the deeper connections to our environment and the need to preserve our heritage. This episode invites you to look beyond the surface, to the wisdom of elders and the lessons embedded in ancestral stories, reaffirming the enduring spirit of Indigenous knowledge in shaping our identities.

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 Que at:
Instagram @quebidois

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