Ep 029 Tattoos and Traditions: Audie Murray's Artistic Exploration

Ever wondered about the deep-rooted cultural significance behind Indigenous tattoos? Join us as we sit down with Audie Murray, a gifted Métis visual artist and traditional tattoo practitioner, who takes us on a journey through her personal and artistic evolution. Inspired by her mother's ink and honed through the Earthline Tattoo Training Residency, Audie delves into the profound connection between ancestral skin marking and the themes of family, home, and land in Indigenous practices. This episode not only illuminates her artistic journey but also highlights the importance of self-care during pivotal life phases, like pursuing higher education or welcoming a new child.

Curious about the revival of cultural tattooing and what it means for both practitioners and communities? Listen as Audie discusses the emotional richness of her work, contrasting the roles of professional tattoo artists and cultural practitioners. She shares her experiences of setting boundaries and taking necessary breaks, even while navigating the complexities of a non-Indigenous-centered academic environment. Her reflections on receiving meaningful critique and exploring indigeneity in art offer valuable insights, particularly for those passionate about maintaining authenticity in their cultural expressions.

What does it take to present Indigenous knowledge and art within Western frameworks without losing its essence? Audie opens up about the challenges and ironies of this task, sharing her thoughts on performance art through beadwork and video. We explore innovative ways to convey the visceral experiences of tattooing and the holistic approach she takes with her clients. The episode concludes with a look at her transformative journey on the Skindigenous series and her aspirations to teach tattooing to the next generation. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, culture, and community.

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 Audie at:
Instagram @chi.fii_

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