This class explores tā moko, permanent body markings as traditionally practiced by the Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. In pre-contact Māori culture, many high-ranking persons received moko.

Moko were associated high social status. Additionally, receiving moko constituted an important milestone between childhood and adulthood and was accompanied by many rites and rituals. Since 1990 there has been a resurgence in the practice of tā moko for both men and women, as a sign of cultural identity and a reflection of the general revival of the language and culture.

Anaia Mahuta, New Zealand’s foreign minister, has brought significant awareness to tā moko, as she wears her chin tattoos proudly on the global stage. See https://www.newzealand.com/us/feature/ta-moko-maori-tattoo/ and https://media.newzealand.com/en/story-ideas/ta-moko-significance-of-maori-tattoos/

Event moderator:  Aaron Casey, MPA from the University of Texas at Austin.  He has explored the history, culture, and art of a variety of peoples & places worldwide.  He has lived in France, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom, and has deep experience as well in Ghana, Brazil, and South Africa.  In recent years he has collaborated with indigenous communities globally, including here in the USA with Washington state’s Suquamish tribe.  He is the co-owner of Alterra Global Education Initiatives.