Ep 048 Tips for Researching Your Ancestral Visual Language with Dion Kaszas and Friends

Unlock the transformative power of ancestral visual languages and discover how Indigenous tattooing can reconnect us to our roots. Join me, Dion Kaszas, on the Transformative Marks podcast as we explore the revitalization of cultural identity through the art of tattooing. This episode features the profound insights of Hacki Williams, a pioneer in Moko Maori tattoo revival, and delves into how these practices offer a path to strengthen community ties and cultural heritage. We promise you’ll gain valuable insights into awakening hidden cultural knowledge and practical steps to embrace your own ancestral visual language, even if you feel disconnected from your lineage.
Can ancestral memory really be encoded in our DNA? Tihoti from Tahiti leads a compelling discussion about "blood memory," challenging us to rethink our connection to ancestral knowledge. Julie Paama-Penngelly takes us on a journey across the globe, highlighting the significance of engaging with ancestral objects found in collections worldwide. These objects hold the keys to cultural revival, fostering both personal growth and community resilience. Engage with the past and resist cultural appropriation by reclaiming the symbols and motifs that define our heritage.
Navigating the delicate balance between knowledge sharing and its potential misuse, we explore the responsibilities of preserving Indigenous wisdom. Tania Willard shares her approach to reviving Interior Salish artistic forms responsibly, emphasizing ethical practices and environmental harmony. We conclude with insights from artists like Terje, Tihoti, and Que, who challenge colonial constraints by evolving ancestral visual languages to fit contemporary contexts. This episode is a powerful reminder of our right and responsibility to honor our heritage while pushing creative boundaries, ensuring cultural expression remains vibrant and relevant.
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 Terje at:
Instagram @terje_k
UA-cam: @terjekoloamatangi2946
You can find Tania at:
Instagram @willardart
You can find Que at:
Instagram @quebidois
You can find Nahaan at:
Instagram @chilkat_tattoo
You can find Julie at:
Instagram @julesartistmoko
Check out my tattoo work at:
www.consumedby...
Instagram @dionkaszas
Buy me a Coffee at:
ko-fi.com/tran...
I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts