| inappropriate tribal tattoos |
Question:
I have to strongly disagree with this line of thought. One of the very wonderfull
ways in which cultural growth and meaning takes place is the acceptance, then
interest, then assimilation and embrace of another culture's art, music, thought.
I think it is absolutely fantastic that people of a western culture (historicaly so
prejudiced)are embracing the tribal cultures of the world. Think of it! The truths
and expressions of our existance is coming back to us from those who never lost it.
I say enough of cultural snobbery. No art once expressed belongs to anyone in
particular. It is not stealing to take the art of another, and use it as is, or
adapt it to express your own feelings. That is the very best of what humans can do
and is what is always happening. All of your art is stolen from somewhere. There
really are very few truly new ideas anyways.
Shame on you folks for putting down that sort of effort. More power to those who try
it even if mistakes are made. Its their loss anyways if not enough research was
done. One just shouldn't think that a japanese tattoo on an american (whatever that
is) makes him japanese.
As to offense of the culture of origen, one should be honest and sensitive. Don't be
intentionally disrespectfull. But in art or tattoo -please youself!
Answer:
Obbodmod: Perhaps the popularity of moko chin pieces is in part
because they can be easily covered up with a beard (especially if
one has black hair). Many tattoo artists may refuse to do facial
tattoos, but will do head (scalp) tatts. Chin moko tatts have
the same concealment option.
As far as I know, we have not yet received any posts from actual
Maori on this subject. Are the Maori all in agreement regarding
pakeha moko? How much of this is guesswork? Moreover, I haven't
seen anything which shows that many pakeha are getting moko. Tourists aren't
exactly flocking to New Zealand wearing Hawaiian tee-shirts
and moko .
|
|
| |
 |