Cultural Symbols and Self-Discovery in Indigenous Tattoo Art with Kris and Wes Wilson
Explicit content warning
10/08/24 • 62 min
#042 What if the art of tattooing could reconnect us to our roots and transform our self-identity? Join me, Dion Kazas, as I welcome Kristine and Wes Wilson to discuss their involvement in the Nlaka'pamux Blackwork project and their personal journeys with Indigenous tattoos. Kristine talks about her significant role as a model and supporter in the Earthline Indigenous tattoo schools and how her meaningful tattoos have fueled a cultural resurgence in skin stitching. Wes shares his transformative experience of overcoming hesitation due to his vitiligo and embracing tattoos, paving a path toward self-acceptance and cultural expression.
We also celebrate the creative genius of Janessa Wilson, whose traditional motifs have turned a simple jersey for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks into a canvas of cultural symbolism. Her designs are a testament to visual sovereignty, embodying a profound connection to the earth and heritage. This episode shines a spotlight on the collaborative spirit of various organizations, like the Canada Council for the Arts, Arts Nova Scotia and the IOTA Institute, that are nurturing community identity by sponsoring the development of a visual dictionary of Nlaka'pamux art, ensuring these cultural symbols remain vibrant and recognized.
Photography and storytelling emerge as crucial tools in preserving and healing communities. We explore how a couple's dedication to capturing precious moments, especially after the fire in Lytton, illustrates photography's power in safeguarding cultural legacies. The episode concludes with the sacredness of documenting tattoo experiences, where unexpected connections and the honor of sharing intimate spaces underscore the project's profound impact. As we continue to honor these personal and cultural journeys, we find inspiration in the stories that bind us and the legacies we leave behind.
Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas
Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks
I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts & We acknowledge the support of Arts Nova Scotia
#042 What if the art of tattooing could reconnect us to our roots and transform our self-identity? Join me, Dion Kazas, as I welcome Kristine and Wes Wilson to discuss their involvement in the Nlaka'pamux Blackwork project and their personal journeys with Indigenous tattoos. Kristine talks about her significant role as a model and supporter in the Earthline Indigenous tattoo schools and how her meaningful tattoos have fueled a cultural resurgence in skin stitching. Wes shares his transformative experience of overcoming hesitation due to his vitiligo and embracing tattoos, paving a path toward self-acceptance and cultural expression.
We also celebrate the creative genius of Janessa Wilson, whose traditional motifs have turned a simple jersey for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks into a canvas of cultural symbolism. Her designs are a testament to visual sovereignty, embodying a profound connection to the earth and heritage. This episode shines a spotlight on the collaborative spirit of various organizations, like the Canada Council for the Arts, Arts Nova Scotia and the IOTA Institute, that are nurturing community identity by sponsoring the development of a visual dictionary of Nlaka'pamux art, ensuring these cultural symbols remain vibrant and recognized.
Photography and storytelling emerge as crucial tools in preserving and healing communities. We explore how a couple's dedication to capturing precious moments, especially after the fire in Lytton, illustrates photography's power in safeguarding cultural legacies. The episode concludes with the sacredness of documenting tattoo experiences, where unexpected connections and the honor of sharing intimate spaces underscore the project's profound impact. As we continue to honor these personal and cultural journeys, we find inspiration in the stories that bind us and the legacies we leave behind.
Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas
Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks
I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts & We acknowledge the support of Arts Nova Scotia
Previous Episode
Healing Through Heritage: Sheldon Louis on the Transformative Power of Traditional Tattoos
#041 How does one become an ancestral tattoo artist in the modern world? Join us as we share the inspiring journey of Sheldon Louis, whose path to mastering traditional skin marking began with a chance encounter at UBC Okanagan. Despite hurdles like conflicting schedules and the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheldon’s unwavering determination led him to a unique cohort where he honed his craft. Together, we explore how these experiences shaped his transition from colonial application methods to more authentic ancestral training practices.
We dive into the crucial responsibilities tattoo practitioners hold, emphasizing safety, authenticity, and respect for traditional protocols. Sheldon and I reflect on bridging knowledge gaps for those reconnecting with their heritage, and the emotional impact of adhering to these protocols, including moments of grief and mourning. We also touch upon the transformative nature of receiving ancestral tattoos, highlighting the profound personal and communal growth that accompanies this sacred art.
This episode also covers the broader implications of our work, from community healing to the role of visual art in our lives. Sheldon shares how discovering his cultural roots enriched his artistic identity, while I recount personal stories about my family's influence on my creative journey. We discuss the importance of mentorship, preserving community histories, and the transformative power of nurturing young talents. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about perseverance, community, and the enduring significance of ancestral traditions in our contemporary world.
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 Sheldon at:
Instagram @boundbyafeather
Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas
Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks
Next Episode
Resilience Through Art: Greg Williams's Journey of Healing and Haida Tattoo Revival
#043 Greg Williams, a Haida tattoo artist, musician, and jewelry maker, takes us on a profound journey of healing and creativity in this episode. We explore how personal tragedy, such as the devastating loss of his daughter, led Greg through battles with substance abuse before finding redemption and purpose in art. His transformative experience in New Zealand, where a vibrant community rekindled his passion for tattooing, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of communal support in reconnecting with one's roots.
The episode highlights the significance of Indigenous Tattoo gatherings like Toi Kiri, where artists find both personal growth and professional inspiration. Greg shares his narrative of overcoming self-doubt and embracing new experiences, illustrating how these events foster a sense of belonging among Indigenous tattoo artists. The rich emotional connections formed during the tattooing process offer solace to both artists and clients, showcasing the deep cultural ties and energy exchanges that are integral to Indigenous art forms.
We also delve into Greg's musical journey, a passion deeply embedded in his family's legacy. From childhood performances to present-day aspirations of playing alongside his children, music remains a powerful outlet for self-expression and healing in his life. Together, we celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and community, and how these elements can guide one through life's challenges. Join us for an exploration of creativity's transformative power and how it shapes identity, fosters connection, and brings about personal and artistic evolution.
You can find Greg at:
Instagram @haida_inkk
Check out my tattoo work at:
https://www.consumedbyink.com
Instagram @dionkaszas
Buy me a Coffee at:
https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks
I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
Transformative Marks Podcast - Cultural Symbols and Self-Discovery in Indigenous Tattoo Art with Kris and Wes Wilson
Transcript
It's definitely a sacred place . When you go in there , it's like a ceremony .
Speaker 3The Transformative Marks podcast explores how Indigenous tattoo artists , cultural tattoo practitioners and ancestral skin markers transform this world for the better , dot by dot , line by line and stitch by stitch . My name is Dion Kazas . I'm a Hungarian Mét
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