In the past, Hawaiians had a unique way of tattooing their bodies. This body art, known as kaka, was used for ornamentation and distinction.
Men generally had geometric designs on their arms and legs during this time, while women were tattoos on their hands and wrists. These tattoos were typically made in black hues to signify a person’s rank and status.
Sea Turtle
The Sea Turtle is an animal that is often associated with patience and tenacity. It is also a symbol of immortality and protection.
The turtle has long been a favored tattoo motif in traditional Polynesian and American cultures, and its symbolic meaning continues to evolve. Today, turtles are popular for those seeking a body art theme that reflects their passion for the ocean or environmental sustainability.
For many, a turtle-themed tattoo is an homage to the idea that slow but steady progress is an excellent way to move through difficult situations. Those who embrace this philosophy can overcome challenges and come out stronger.
Modern turtle tattoo ideas combine traditional and technical elements to produce finished designs rich in color and effects. These concepts can range from simple and refined use of shade and linework to more innovative techniques to create an entirely new aesthetic in the world of tattoo art.
Makau
Hawaiian tattoos are known for their unique and colorful designs. They are also often adorned with beautiful flowers.
The hibiscus flower is popular in Hawaiian tattoos because it symbolizes beauty and is the state flower of Hawaii. It can be done in various colors to represent a person’s personality or a special event.
Sea turtles are another important creature in Polynesian culture and can be found in many Hawaiian tattoo designs. These tattoos are often paired with other elements to give them a more meaningful meaning.
Dolphins are another popular animal in Polynesian cultures and are seen as animals of guidance for sailors. They are also mighty creatures and can be used in Hawaiian tattoos to represent courage and protection.
Sharks are also famous for Hawaiian tattoos and can be an excellent choice for someone who loves nature. The shark can be used to represent strength and adaptability in many cultures.
Shark
A Shark tattoo is a symbol of strength, protection, and power. It is also a reminder to respect the ocean and its creatures.
In Hawaiian mythology, a powerful god known as the Aumakua has appeared to various families as a shark. It is why it is common to see sharks in Polynesian culture.
It also symbolizes intelligence because sharks are very good at scoping their surroundings. They have an incredible sense of smell and vision and can detect the electrical impulses fish give off underwater.
Another popular meaning of the shark is that it represents someone with a go-hard or go-home attitude. These people are passionate about their pursuits and do not take anything for granted.
Some Polynesian sharks are etched with spearhead patterns in some of the designs. It is a sign of power and was a popular tattoo for Hawaiian warriors to bring them protection.
Marquesan Cross
The Marquesan Cross is one of the important symbols in Polynesian tattoos. It symbolizes unity and peace and a way to bring different people together.
It is also a symbol of strength and courage. It symbolizes tiki, which means “first man on Earth.”
A Marquesan Cross is usually accompanied by other motifs representing the wearer’s heritage, tribal history, individuality, or legends. The designs can vary greatly, and they’re often simple but meaningful.
In the Marquesan culture, turtles are an essential animal symbolizing longevity, well-being, and fertility. They also represent the ocean, which Polynesians believe to be their final resting place.
Traditionally, Marquesan tattoos were made with bone tools, but they still use tattoo machines today. They were prevalent among men and could cover a person’s entire body.