Mauri Tattoos

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Maori Tattoos - Sacred and Modern

Tattoos are a very important part of Maori culture. It is no surprise that Maori tattoos have grown in popularity around the world because they are master designers. Tattoos are highly significant to this culture. Unfortunately, the importance of the meaning of tattoos started fading once European settlers arrived in New Zealand. However, there is a surgence of pride amongst the Maori nation and they are once again embracing the art of tattoo and its deep symbolism.

The tattoo style used by Maori men is called Ta moko. The style used for women is called Moko. The Maori style of tattoo is very bold and the design are sweeping. This makes it suitable for any part of the body. Maori men and women were tattooed as a rite of passage during each important stage of life. This included body and face tattoos. It was considered a particularly beautiful adornment for a woman to have her lips inked in blue. Even though Europeans disapproved of this practice it is making a comeback and there are young Maori women insisting on their culture right to inking their lips. They can have their lips blue or they can also have an intricate and delicate design under the lower lip. They are doing this even though they may be persecuted by not getting a job.

In Western culture the Maori style and symbols are being embraced by men and women. The tattoos are mostly chosen for body art and not so much for placement on the face. It is necessary for Maori tattoos enthusiasts to understand it is regarded as insulting to the Maori culture for a non Maori to wear their traditional designs. It is advisable to respect the culture by asking a knowledgeable tattooist to redesign a tattoo so that it is modern and not exactly like a traditional design. There are tattooists who are specialists in tribal art designs and know the appropriate etiquette so as not to offend a culture.

It is possible for you to have a good idea of what to expect if you choose Maori tattoos to adorn your skin by becoming a member of a specialty site such as TattooMeNow. This is a place where you can gather information as well as view designs. You can download the tattoo designs you like and then approach a tattoo artist. If necessary, the tattooist can make changes and adapt the designs to suit your individual style or you can use as is.

Your objective should be to get the look of the Ta Moko or Moko but without the cultural significance. Tribal art designs look particular good in a single color like black or blue or green. However, these intricate designs are versatile enough for a modern body artist to use any colors seen fit to enhance them. There is no reason not have the colors that you want. Tribal designs can be placed around the arm or leg. They can also take up the all the skin on the back or be place don the back of a shoulder.

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