What do I have on my hand and what does
it mean?
The tattoo on my hand is a tattoo. It’s not henna. The style is from the Marquesas Islands. The Marquesas are north of Tahiti.
Roonui, a Tahitian artist, did the
tattoo freehand in Moorea, Tahiti. He is now living in Canada. http://www.roonui-tattoo.com/ It took two-and-a-half hours. (And yes,
it hurt.)
I’d seen the tattoo there on my hand for
sometime. The tattoo represents assistance for my work. I use my hands for
music, writing, and everything else I do. The tattoo reminds me of the levels of
assistance. I am also carrying a beautiful piece of art with me wherever I
go.
Roonui says: "Polynesian tattooing is
not a simple exercise in aesthetics. Polynesian carve into their body the
symbols of their actions (past present or future), their promises, their
games."
The part inside my wrist, close to my
heart, resembles ancestral designs of my tribal people.
More about Harjo's events: http://www.albany.edu/writers-inst/webpages4/archives/harjo_joy12.html
The 8PM reading will be followed by a free catered reception and book signing with Harjo sponsored by SUNY Press (at approximately 9:30 p.m.). The reception is in association with the annual John G. Neihardt lecture celebrating Native American literature.
