A group of tattoo artists from countries such as Italy, America, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and Tahiti will gather at the Taumeasina Island Resort later this month for the Tatau festival.

The three-day festival commences on November 21-23 and it is part of a tribute to the Suluape family.

This was confirmed by one of the organizers, Whitey Chen in an interview with Samoa Observer.

“The festival will be an opportunity for members of the public to get their tattoos by more than 30 tattoo artists both locally and overseas but we also ensure our methods are safe,” he said.

He added that there will also be a concert on Saturday featuring artists such as: Sam Choo Koon, Lapi Mariner, Fiji, Tenelle, Brown Hill; Wayno; and Western Conference.  

“There will be an official parade to officially open the festival with the assistance by the Samoa Tourism Authority.

“Originally we have hosted the Tatau Festival in America but we thought why not bring it back to where it all started, our Samoan tattoo is very unique and special it is part of our culture and identity, it makes us unique throughout the pacific and world.

“It is also great to feature some of the local artists like: Manamea Tattoo Studio, Christopher Krieg, Paulo Mauia, other artists including myself, Fred Frost, Akiu Sale, Mua Posala, Leilani Pedreira, Marlo Lualemana, Ron Galido, Makalio Folituu (Tagaloa Tattoo, Tahiti), Keone Nunes, Suluape Steve Looney, Sii Liufau, Taefu Falefitu, Lane Wilcken, Tasi Meleah, Lawrence Ah Ching, Pili Moo, Tautua Ink NZ, Joseph Ioane, Charles Moeai, Duffy Hudson.”

He also acknowledged the sponsors: Taumeasina, Vailima, TV3, Magic FM, QHF Lighting, Naydith Events Hirage, Samoa Airways in Samoa, Island Business Center and Samoa News. 

“Another significant aspect of the festival will feature the Suluape family going back to their village of Matafaa and be able to bestow the Suluape title to some of the tattoo artists that are based overseas.”