Written by : Lisa DI SALVIA
If you come to French Polynesia, you’ll quickly see how much tattooing is an integral part of the local culture. Here, ink isn’t just a matter of style: it tells a story, an identity, a connection to ancestors. The tatau, as it is called in Reo Tahiti, is a powerful and profound art. And if you too feel the call of the needle, I share with you my two favorite addresses in Papeete: Mana’o Tattoo Studio andTattoo by Patu. Two very different experiences, but both marked by authenticity, passion and respect for traditions.
Mana’o Tattoo Studio: the artist collective at the heart of mana
©Mana’o Tatto Studio
Tattoo by Patu: an inner journey etched into your skin
And then there’s Patu. If you’re looking for a more intimate, almost spiritual experience, you need to visit Tattoo by Patu. He started tattooing at the age of 11 (yes, you read that right!). Simply put, he’s internationally recognized and has received numerous awards for the quality and originality of his work.
His studio feels like a cocoon. You enter in silence, settle in, and talk. For Patu and his team, each tattoo is a kind of therapy. They sense what you’re feeling, what you want to express… and turn it into a work of art. The studio’s style blends Polynesian traditions with modern influences, resulting in unique, powerful, and deeply personal creations. Every visit to Patu is a truly special moment.
Known for its professionalism, the studio brings together several award-winning tattoo artists, each specializing in a distinct style: from traditional Polynesian to modern custom work, including lettering, geometric patterns, and minimalist designs.
If you want to mark a moment in your life, reconnect with yourself, or simply treat yourself to an inked jewel—go for it.
🕒 Tuesday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
🕒 Saturday: 9 AM – 12 PM
📞 +689 89 75 31 73
🌐 tattoobypatu.com
📸 Instagram | Facebook
©Tattoo by Patu
Tattooing in Tahiti: Much More Than Just a Souvenir
In these two studios, getting tattooed is not just a trend or a simple aesthetic choice. It is a return to one’s roots, a statement of self, and sometimes even a form of healing. Whether you’re looking for a symbol of your heritage, a travel keepsake, or a unique work of art, Polynesian tattooing opens the door to a world rich in meaning and spirituality. So if the call of the tatau speaks to you, don’t hesitate to take the plunge. Faa’ito’ito (courage in Reo Tahiti) for the sting of the needle… but what a beautiful journey to wear on your skin!
Rédaction : Lisa DI SALVIA