Unit 7
Tech Exploration
Ink and identity
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1Tā Moko: more than just body art?
Tā Moko: more than just body art?
Tā Moko, traditional Maori tattoos, are an art form that has existed for hundreds of years. Tā Moko tattoos tell the story of the wearer. They may include details of their family bonds (whanau), ancestral lineage (whakapapa), belonging within their community (iwi), or significant life moments hidden in the details.
To achieve Tā Moko, Maori created small handheld tools from shark teeth, sharpened bones, or sharp stones to pierce the skin. The handles of these chisels were often made from albatross bones, and sometimes iron. Inks were made from natural materials. Black pigments were created from burnt wood, while lighter pigments came from insects or burnt kauri gum mixed with animal fat. These pigments were stored in ornate containers called “oko”, which often became cherished family heirlooms.
Getting a traditional maori tattoo was a painful process. There was no pain relief and chiselling the skin was more painful than using a modern-day tattoo needle. Deep cuts were made in the skin, and a chisel dipped in pigment was tapped into these cuts. Another method involved dipping the chisel into a container of pigment then striking the chisel with a mallet. This would pierce the skin and transfer the pigment beneath it.
Traditional methods of tattooing took a long time because of the tools used and the pain endured by the wearer. As a result, only a few body parts were tattooed at once. This would give the wearer time to heal.
To achieve Tā Moko, Maori created small handheld tools from shark teeth, sharpened bones, or sharp stones to pierce the skin. The handles of these chisels were often made from albatross bones, and sometimes iron. Inks were made from natural materials. Black pigments were created from burnt wood, while lighter pigments came from insects or burnt kauri gum mixed with animal fat. These pigments were stored in ornate containers called “oko”, which often became cherished family heirlooms.
Getting a traditional maori tattoo was a painful process. There was no pain relief and chiselling the skin was more painful than using a modern-day tattoo needle. Deep cuts were made in the skin, and a chisel dipped in pigment was tapped into these cuts. Another method involved dipping the chisel into a container of pigment then striking the chisel with a mallet. This would pierce the skin and transfer the pigment beneath it.
Traditional methods of tattooing took a long time because of the tools used and the pain endured by the wearer. As a result, only a few body parts were tattooed at once. This would give the wearer time to heal.
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2Bringing back the art of Māori Tā Moko
Tā Moko made with traditional tools.
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Path A
1-A
How has the perception of Tā Moko changed over time?
2-A
How do contemporary artists balance authenticity with modern influences?
3-A
In what ways can Tā Moko be seen as a form of branding or storytelling?
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Path B
1-B
What traditional materials were used for Tā Moko, and what chemical or physical properties made them effective?
2-B
How does the method of chiseling differ from modern tattooing techniques?
3-B
What are the biomedical risks associated with traditional Tā Moko compared to machine tattoos?
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Path A
Cultural branding challenge
Create a marketing pitch for a New Zealand tourism campaign showcasing how Tã Moko can be ethically promoted as a symbol of Maori heritage while respecting its deep cultural significance.
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Path B
Heritage innovation challenge
Create a tech-based solution that modernises Tã Moko while respecting its cultural significance: a new tattooing tool, a skin-safe bio-ink, an app for preservation, etc. Present your idea and its key benefits to potential investors.
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