In the Flesh

In the Flesh: By Victoria Pitts

Paraphrase:

            Tattoos have become increasingly popular in the past few decades, climbing upward through American social classes.  Author Victoria Pitts refers to this recent rise as a “tattoo renaissance”, as the definition and symbolism of tattoos has been altered through cultural diffusion. The evidence of this evolution is seen in the change of popularity from traditional American tattoos to “tribal-style black work” tattoos. Americans have discovered a new appreciation for going under the ink, a cultural practice that has existed for centuries in other parts of the world. Tattoos are, according to Pitts “celebrated as an act of technological invention”, as a result tattoos have soared throughout various media outlets to become the “body modification movement”. ( Pitts 10-11) 

Summary:

            The main point of In the Flesh was to emphasize the reasons for continuous evolution and influence of tattoos in America. Tattoos have become popular among higher social classes because of their increased positive depiction in the media; magazines, websites, etc. The introduction of Tribal tattoos by other cultures has offered Americans more choices and is a factor in their spiked interest.   

Quotation:

            Cultural tattoos boosted western interest by giving significance and diversity to tattoos, “Tribal-style “blackwork” tattoos, which look radically different than the tattoos generally used in America and Europe, were becoming increasingly popular…employed by people who did not consider themselves part of tattooing communities” ( Pitt 10)

Tattoos: Tatau (Samoan Tattoos)

Another video of PBS's Skin Stories, this one gives explanation for the meaning and ways of Samoan tribal tattooing.

Tattoos: Tatau (Samoan Tattoos)

Samoa is where the Polynesian tattoo first began, “Samoans have practiced the art of tattooing both men and women for over 2,000 years. The geometric patterns are based on ancient designs, and often denote rank and status.” (Polynesian Cultural Center 2011) Tribal tattooing holds great significance in Polynesian culture, and the Samoan name tatau, is the root for the English word Tattoo. “Fa’a Samoa” or the Samoan way is built on respect, “tatau which means ‘correct or workmanlike.’ ” is the correct way to demonstrate respect for the land, family and overall culture. (Polynesian Culture Center 2011) The Samoan tattoo is generally a lower body tattoo, in a series of steps inking is done from the waist to the ankle and most young chiefs participate in this passage into adulthood.   

Tattoos: Moko (Maori tattoo)

Video from PBS's Skin Stories about Maori tattoos and their meanings. You can watch the whole video if you want or jump to 2:45 for a direct description.

Tattoos: Moko (Maori tattoo)

      A frequent practice upholding centuries of culture is plastered proudly on the faces of thousands of Maori men and women. The moko is idolized as a way to “differentiate between social class” and as a display of their power in the community. (PBS 2003) Whether it is a full blown facial tattoo worn by men, a half moko or a lip and chin tattoo reserved for females Maori tattoos demonstrate a privilege held only by royality or higher class citizens. Maori tattooing emphasizes the face as it is the base for communication, therefore things that bring pride are displayed there,”occupation of wearer”, family power, history, and land ownership. (PBS 2003) Facial tattoos are highly respected in Maori societies, perhaps because of the immense pain and finance required to receive one.