Ep 013 Sacred Skin Journeys and Cultural Awakening with Natalia Roxas

Embark on a profound exploration of Filipino tattooing with my guest, Natalia Roxas, whose journey from reluctance to becoming a hand-tapped tattoo practitioner unveils the rich tapestry of cultural identity and personal transformation. Natalia's narrative, intertwined with my own experiences as a Hungarian, Metis, and Nlaka'pamux professional tattoo artist, sheds light on the ancestral art that is much more than skin deep. Together, we navigate the teachings of our mentors, the spiritual dimensions of ancestral communication, and the responsibility of wielding traditional bone tools in our craft.

As we unfurl the mat of wisdom – a symbol of school, sacred space, and church in indigenous communities – the stories of our teachers and the traditions of the 185 ethnolinguistic groups in the Philippines come to life. This episode goes beyond tattoo marks; it’s about the connections we forge, the compassion we harbor for our diasporic ancestors, and the resonance of their love and resilience that shape us. Listeners will find solace in our shared narratives, understanding the significance of these traditions in a modern context, and the humanity that underscores our practices.

Concluding our session, we contemplate the balance between honoring our heritage and adapting to the present day. We discuss the spiritual identity that comes with embracing one's roots, the importance of integrity in our work, and the transformational power of love. It's a call to recognize your worth, to bring forth compassion, and to contribute to the global tapestry with purpose. Tune in for an evocative discussion that promises an introspective view into the world of indigenous tattooing and the indelible marks it leaves on both body and soul.

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 Natalia at:
Instagram @nataliarxs
https://www.nataliaroxas.com/

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