Cash up for grabs in tatau contest

By Tina Mata'afa-Tufele 22 October 2020, 5:00AM

Men and women who wear the Tatau Samoa are invited to compete in a Siva Samoa TikTok contest in American Samoa this weekend.

The contest is part of the 15th Annual Tisa’s Tatau Festival on TikTok where more than $1,100 is up for grabs in four categories. One category is for children aged 5-8 and the prize is $150.

Men and women can compete for a $300 prize in two separate categories. In the mixed group contest there is a $500 prize. All entries must be made on TikTok.


Festival hosts Tisa’s Barefoot Bar have partnered with the American Samoa Visitors Bureau to host the two-day virtual festival from 24-25 October in Alega, American Samoa.

“The two-day event will highlight original versions of the Tatau history through performing arts and conversations streamed live, with local and overseas tattoo artists tattooing live from Samoa, the United States, New Zealand and Australia – all from the comfort and safety of your computer, tablet or smartphone, broadcast live on Facebook,” said Tisa’s in a statement.


“Our beloved tattoo artists will join Joseph Ioane from Off Da Rock Tattoo, along with guest speakers, Tufuga carvers, Siapo makers, Fire Knife Dancers, Samoan Siva Groups, and Samoan Singers, live from the Tattoo Festival stage.”

Discussions at the event will focus on the meaning of Tatau patterns and one’s obligation to the sacred art of Tatau with a presentation by Tapa’au Dr. Daniel Aga.

Author Ta’alolo Drabble will also discuss the many secret hidden messages in the lyrics of many old historical Samoan songs.

“So many speakers, so much to learn and love about our Samoan history and culture,” added Tisa in a statement.

“Book a watch party with your friends and experience live on Facebook the 2020 Tattoo Festival and cast your vote [using your ‘like’ button] to determine the winners of the many Tattoo Festival contests this year – all while watching and enjoying hours of video of Tattoo Festivals from the last 15 years – and honor your cultural warriors with your vote!”


The event location is restricted due to COVID-19 policies and reservations are required. There is a Umu Toana’i on Sunday at 2pm and space is limited.

“This year we are proud to be in partnership with American Samoa Visitors Bureau to bring the most authentic celebration of Tatau Art in Beautiful Tutuila Island – and for helping us showcase our island and culture to the world,” said Tisa’s.

“They have made it possible for us to open our borders to our aiga, friends, and tourists to American Samoa. Fa’afetai tele lava.”

Tisa’s thanks their sponsors: Neil’s Ace Home Center, The Tool Shop, Industrial Gases, South Seas Broadcasting, Samoa News, GHC Reid & Co. Ltd / Vailima Beer, Tropik Traders,Harbor Maritime and Stevedoring, the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority (A.S.T.C.A.)., the Territorial Bank of American Samoa, Pago Pago Trading Company, and Ruby Red Café.

By Tina Mata'afa-Tufele 22 October 2020, 5:00AM
Samoa Observer

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