Ancient Ink Reborn: Revitalizing Traditional Inuit Tattooing (Video)
In a harmonious blend of identity and strength, Marjorie Taub breathes life back into the ancient art of Inuit tattooing. With practiced skill, she employs two techniques that date back thousands of years, infusing narratives beneath the skin's surface. Hand poking, a method rooted in history, delicately deposits ink, while skin stitching, a more intense process, weaves stories with needle and thread. These patterns transcend generations, their meanings profound for both wearer and kin.
Nearly lost a century ago due to foreign missionaries and colonization, this art now experiences a renaissance through Marjorie's dedication—a fusion of heritage and innovation. Guided by the wisdom of elders, she embarked on this endeavor, rejuvenating a craft time sought to erase. Each mark she creates echoes a journey, embodying the enduring spirit of a culture that refuses to be forgotten.Top of Form
- Survival of the Inuit in a Harsh and Unforgiving World
- Ancient Ink: How Tattoos Can Reveal Hidden Stories of Past Cultures
Top image: Inuit women with tattoos. Source: YouTube Screenshot / Great Big Story.
