Tattooing is linked to Polynesian culture. In the past, it was used to tell the story of the wearer, but also to identify his or her social standing. He also played a role in transmitting knowledge, using the body as a canvas. Did you know that the tattoo was banned by missionaries and thus disappeared for over 150 years? Today, Polynesian motifs are fashionable all over the world thanks to their ethnic aesthetic. The motifs of the Marquesan tattoo, Patutiki, predominate. Every design has a meaning, and it’s best to know the meaning of your tattoo before you get it…for life!

Tattooing in Polynesia is much more than a simple form of artistic expression; it’s a central part of the culture, steeped in history, meaning and symbolism. In the past, the tattoo served as a body narrative, revealing the wearer’s personal history, while at the same time functioning as a social marker, identifying rank within society. It was also a means of transmitting knowledge, transforming the body into a living canvas where each motif told a story.

The history of Polynesian tattooing went through a dark period when missionaries banned the practice, relegating it to the shadows for over 150 years. However, despite this forced interruption, tattooing has managed to revive, preserving its cultural and aesthetic significance. Today, Polynesian motifs, led by the Marquesan Patutiki, have conquered the world with their unique ethnic aesthetic.

It’s fascinating to see how these once-banned designs have become global tattoo trends. This underlines the ability of Polynesian culture to stand the test of time and establish itself as a source of international artistic inspiration.

However, it’s essential to recognize that each Polynesian tattoo design has a profound meaning. Before embarking on this form of body art, it’s highly recommended to understand the specific meaning of your choice, as these designs are much more than just drawings. They carry stories, values and cultural ties, and once tattooed on the skin, they become an indelible part of a person’s identity. Each person with a Polynesian tattoo carries with them a unique story, a story that transcends time and lives on through these designs engraved in the skin.