In an evocative dance between personal narrative and cultural resurgence, artist Jack Kirifi breathes life into the nearly forgotten tattoo traditions of Tokelau. His latest creation, Reconnect: Tōkelau Tā Tatau, serves as a vibrant testament to ancestral identity and a passionate account of reviving artistry that faced suppression. Kirifi expresses, “When I first discovered these symbols, I felt like a language had just opened up for me … tatau is not only just the art form, but it’s a connection to my family, my community, and those who come before me, and those to follow me.”
The deeply rooted history of Tokelauan tattooing met a halt in the mid-1800s, as missionaries and colonisers extinguished this rich tradition, along with the scar of the slave trade. Kirifi’s immersion into these cultural depths is not merely a research venture; it’s a heartfelt reconnection with the essence of identity. Tokelau, a charming cluster situated just north of Sāmoa, offers unique tattoo designs such as the remarkable nifo ika, a triangular marking around women’s lips, and the striking barbed spear images gracing men’s faces. Kirifi shares, “The art of tatau was banned and abolished… so it’s basically my journey reconnecting to cultural identity.”
His book aims to bridge the fading gaps of knowledge across generations. Sharing his thoughts, he reveals, “I’ve had nieces and nephews wanting designs done, but rather than our younger people getting patterns that are not of our culture, [this shows] we do have patterns that belong to us.” Emphasising the rich array of designs, he details the sacred turtle motifs intertwined within Tokelau’s natural tapestry and highlights the importance of cultural tattoos especially tattoo bands around the wrists and ankles, indicative of deeper meanings, such as those bestowed upon women during marriage.
Kirifi’s foray into writing was birthed from a fruitful exhibition at Pātaka Art + Museum. A fortuitous conversation with Dahlia Malaeulu, founder of Mila’s Books, catalysed his storytelling journey. This collaborative spirit embodies the heart of Kirifi’s work, honouring the past while inspiring the future. “I don’t see myself as an author… this is just an extension of that,” he asserts, acknowledging the oral traditions that have long been the lifeblood of Pacific cultures. Speaking on literature, Malaeulu reaffirms the importance of stories as vessels for knowledge and connection.
Envisioning the horizon, Kirifi plans to partner with other Tokelauan artists and delve into lesser-known tattoo practices in places like the Solomon Islands. His motivation remains steadfast; he aims to uplift his community, honouring those who paved the way for future generations. With Reconnect: Tōkelau Tā Tatau warmly debuting through Mila’s Books, Kirifi’s legacy serves as a clarion call to embrace and cultivate the beauty of one’s heritage.
Jack Kirifi, a visual artist, is reviving the nearly forgotten tattoo tradition of Tokelau through his new book *Reconnect: Tōkelau Tā Tatau*. This work intertwines personal experiences with cultural heritage, reflecting Kirifi’s journey to reconnect with his ancestral identity. He highlights unique Tokelauan markings and their significance, aiming to inspire younger generations to embrace their cultural patterns. Kirifi’s efforts are a homage to his forebears and a beacon for future generations.
In conclusion, Jack Kirifi’s *Reconnect: Tōkelau Tā Tatau* skilfully merges personal storytelling with the revival of Tokelau’s rich tattoo traditions, almost lost to colonial forces. His efforts seek to reconnect the present with ancestral legacies, inspiring younger generations to cherish their cultural markings and identity. Through collaboration and research, Kirifi not only preserves ancient art but also empowers his community’s future alongside their history.
Original Source: pmn.co.nz
