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New Zealand's National Museum Hosts Ancient Māori Tattoo Ceremony as Art Form Sees Resurgence
In the heart of Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, a crowd gathered to witness the painstaking process of traditional Māori tattooing. Eight individuals, including men and women, lay still under the needle as master artists carefully applied intricate designs, thin lines spiraling across their cheeks and chins. The ceremony was a rare public event, held to mark new research into ancient preserved Māori heads.
The resurgence of tā moko – traditional Māori tattoos – is attributed to recent discoveries in ancient heads, which cultural protocol restricts from being shown publicly. These heads are believed to be centuries old and provide valuable insights into the artistry and history of traditional Māori tattooing.
Research into the markings on these ancient heads has revealed that previous generations of tattoo artists possessed a "total understanding" of human form, using the movement of skin and facial muscles to inform their placements. The artists would have established close relationships with those receiving tattoos, demonstrating an extraordinary level of skill and care in their work.
Raniera Warren's experience as a recipient of traditional Māori tattoos is a testament to this expertise. His moko – including designs found on ancestral heads – tells the story of his journey to learn his Māori language later in life, so he can pass it on to his children.
As artists continue to refine their craft, they are adopting more careful and deliberate methods, driven by the desire to preserve traditional techniques for future generations. The event at Te Papa Tongarewa serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of tā moko – not just as a form of art, but also as a means of preserving cultural heritage.
"It was a beautiful experience to be a part of," Warren says. "The tattoos were all designed to bring those [markings] back, so they wouldn't get lost." The resurgence of tā moko is an exciting development in the world of Māori art, and its continued popularity is a testament to the enduring power of traditional techniques and cultural practices.
The growing visibility of tā moko has led to increased interest in mainstream culture, with co-leaders of Te Pāti Māori and former Labour foreign affairs minister Nanaia Mahuta showcasing their tattoos. In 2022, Oriini Kaipara became the first woman with a moko kauae – chin tattoo – to host mainstream prime-time television news.
"We wouldn't see this 20-30 years ago now," says Tamahou Temara, general manager for arts organisation Toi Māori Aotearoa. "You'd have to go back decades to find such an event happening." The event at Te Papa Tongarewa marks a new era in tā moko artistry, with the continued collaboration between contemporary artists and researchers unlocking the secrets of ancient techniques.
As tā moko continues to gain popularity, its significance extends beyond mere aesthetics. It serves as a bridge between past and present, offering insights into the lives and experiences of Māori ancestors. By preserving traditional techniques and cultural practices, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and ensure their stories are told for generations to come.
In New Zealand's national museum, master Māori tattoo artists meticulously recreate ancient designs on the faces of eight individuals. Their work is a testament to the enduring power of tā moko – an art form that not only preserves cultural heritage but also continues to evolve, bringing new meaning and significance to those who wear it.
In the heart of Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, a crowd gathered to witness the painstaking process of traditional Māori tattooing. Eight individuals, including men and women, lay still under the needle as master artists carefully applied intricate designs, thin lines spiraling across their cheeks and chins. The ceremony was a rare public event, held to mark new research into ancient preserved Māori heads.
The resurgence of tā moko – traditional Māori tattoos – is attributed to recent discoveries in ancient heads, which cultural protocol restricts from being shown publicly. These heads are believed to be centuries old and provide valuable insights into the artistry and history of traditional Māori tattooing.
Research into the markings on these ancient heads has revealed that previous generations of tattoo artists possessed a "total understanding" of human form, using the movement of skin and facial muscles to inform their placements. The artists would have established close relationships with those receiving tattoos, demonstrating an extraordinary level of skill and care in their work.
Raniera Warren's experience as a recipient of traditional Māori tattoos is a testament to this expertise. His moko – including designs found on ancestral heads – tells the story of his journey to learn his Māori language later in life, so he can pass it on to his children.
As artists continue to refine their craft, they are adopting more careful and deliberate methods, driven by the desire to preserve traditional techniques for future generations. The event at Te Papa Tongarewa serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of tā moko – not just as a form of art, but also as a means of preserving cultural heritage.
"It was a beautiful experience to be a part of," Warren says. "The tattoos were all designed to bring those [markings] back, so they wouldn't get lost." The resurgence of tā moko is an exciting development in the world of Māori art, and its continued popularity is a testament to the enduring power of traditional techniques and cultural practices.
The growing visibility of tā moko has led to increased interest in mainstream culture, with co-leaders of Te Pāti Māori and former Labour foreign affairs minister Nanaia Mahuta showcasing their tattoos. In 2022, Oriini Kaipara became the first woman with a moko kauae – chin tattoo – to host mainstream prime-time television news.
"We wouldn't see this 20-30 years ago now," says Tamahou Temara, general manager for arts organisation Toi Māori Aotearoa. "You'd have to go back decades to find such an event happening." The event at Te Papa Tongarewa marks a new era in tā moko artistry, with the continued collaboration between contemporary artists and researchers unlocking the secrets of ancient techniques.
As tā moko continues to gain popularity, its significance extends beyond mere aesthetics. It serves as a bridge between past and present, offering insights into the lives and experiences of Māori ancestors. By preserving traditional techniques and cultural practices, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and ensure their stories are told for generations to come.
In New Zealand's national museum, master Māori tattoo artists meticulously recreate ancient designs on the faces of eight individuals. Their work is a testament to the enduring power of tā moko – an art form that not only preserves cultural heritage but also continues to evolve, bringing new meaning and significance to those who wear it.
I'm totally loving this resurgence of traditional Māori tattoos! It's so cool how researchers have discovered ancient heads with preserved markings, and now we're seeing the art form come back in a big way 
. The level of skill and care that goes into creating these intricate designs is just mind-blowing 
. And it's amazing to see how this art form is being passed down from one generation to the next 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to be part of something so rich in history and culture? 
As for me, I'm all about trying out some new wellness routines, but a traditional Māori tattoo ceremony sounds like an incredible experience 
. The fact that these ancient designs are being adopted by mainstream culture, with politicians like Nanaia Mahuta showcasing their moko on national TV, highlights the growing value placed on indigenous heritage 
. It's interesting to see how this trend has led to increased interest in preserving traditional techniques and cultural practices – a move that can also be seen as a clever marketing strategy 
. After all, who wouldn't want to associate themselves with ancient history and cultural significance? The government should definitely take note of this shift in public interest and find ways to support and promote these efforts, rather than just leaving it to private organizations like Toi Māori Aotearoa 
.
. its not just about the pretty designs, but also about preserving cultural heritage and passing it down to future generations 
.
. its like they're speaking the same language, you know? 
. and orini kaipara being the first woman with a moko kauae to host news is like, totally inspiring 
.
) its about connecting with your ancestors and honoring your heritage 
.
anywayz im lovin how tā moko is gettin some major love rn its like the world is finally startin 2 appresheate māori culture n its beauty. cant w8 2 c more of these ancient designs come 2 life 
! It's amazing how these intricate designs can tell a story about someone's identity and connection to their ancestors. I mean, can you imagine being able to learn your own language and culture from someone who's had a tattoo that's been passed down through generations? 
the traditional Māori tattooing ceremony is a beautiful example of how preserving cultural heritage can be both personal and collective effort. we're seeing master artists refining their craft with deliberate methods, driven by love for their culture and community 
. I mean, you've got politicians like Nanaia Mahuta showcasing their tattoos on mainstream TV – that's some bold moves, right? 
.
. But hey, if it gets more people interested in learning about tā moko, then I'm all for it 
. That's just not cool. Tā moko is a sacred tradition that requires respect and understanding – not some Instagram-worthy accessory 
. But overall, it's great to see tā moko getting the recognition it deserves, both in New Zealand and around the world 
mind blown! 
just saw the most epic live tattoo ceremony at Te Papa Tongarewa museum in NZ! 
. can't believe ancient Māori heads are being used to revive this art form - so cool! 
. hope this resurgence inspires new artists to keep pushing boundaries & innovating 
. Like, I've heard of people on TV showing off their tattoos – it's not something you'd typically see 20-30 years ago. So yeah, I think this resurgence of tā moko is a pretty cool thing 
