It goes without saying that these days, tattoos are everywhere. And while societal acceptance of ink has ebbed and flowed, ...

"It symbolizes the deep trust and honor that a family places in one of their daughters," she said, adding the tattoos also identify her as a leader in Samoan society. "It's a commitment by the ...

On the other hand, women with a completed tattoo – or ‘malu’ – are considered to be making a commitment to traditional Samoan values, and to the care and protection of their family.

one can view modern and traditional tattooing tools along with striking images of Samoan tattooing, Looney said. Some of the photos display a tattoo style unique to Looney’s family, passed down ...

Tattoos in places like Samoa, Tonga, and Hawai‘i can signify ... The individual receiving tatatau is joined by their family or village during the tattooing process so they can support him ...

HONOLULU (Island News)-- A Samoan Army Captain is the first soldier to receive approval to have traditional “tatau” or tattoos on her hands. This move not only honors Captain Isis Sake’s ...

Army Capt. Isis Sake is the first soldier to receive a religious accommodation for traditional Samoan hand tattoos. (Jon Simkins/Staff) Small arrows, birds and stars adorn the tops of the soldier ...