Indigenous Tattoo Cultural Revitalization and Exchanges with Indigenous Peoples of Oceania

Date & Time: Saturday, December 21, 2024 | 1:00–3:00 p.m.

Venue: Room SS3004-2, College of Social Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University

Speaker: Cudjuy Patjidres (Song Hai-Hua)
Paiwan Indigenous Tattoo Artist

Lecture Overview

Around 2010, the speaker unexpectedly encountered historical photographs depicting Paiwan men with tattoo patterns covering their upper bodies, resembling the skin markings of the hundred-pace viper. This discovery inspired him to reconnect with traditional tattoo practices and marked the beginning of his journey toward cultural revitalization.

Using his own body as the first medium for reviving this cultural practice, he later began learning and practicing the traditional hand-tapping tattoo technique under the guidance of Indigenous tattoo artists from Oceania in 2015. He has continued to dedicate himself to this craft ever since.

In this lecture, the speaker will share his experiences in revitalizing Indigenous tattoo culture and engaging in exchanges with international Indigenous tattoo communities. Through his personal journey, students will gain a foundational understanding of Taiwan Indigenous tattoo traditions while expanding their perspectives on the diverse cultures of Indigenous peoples across Oceania.

We warmly welcome all interested participants to join us for this lecture.