tiling tutuh mentawai hand tapped tatoo

Tiling Tutuh

Timeless Beauty of Traditional Tattoos Across Indonesian Tribes.

Text by Myriam Speich
Photos by Metha Rosshanti

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Instant Karma #20 The Mindful Traveler Magazine Cover Indonesia
Instant Karma #20

More than simple ornaments, at Tiling Tutuh, traditional tattooing takes on new life, celebrating its artistic significance through sessions that utilize hand-tapping and hand poke techniques. 

In Indonesia, a diverse array of tribes has traditions through the ancient practice of tattooing. Far beyond a mere form of artistic expression, these tattoos serve as components of spiritual rituals, cultural identity, and the embodiment of stories drawn from mythology and spiritual beliefs.

A Journey Through Time and Tradition

For generations, various Indonesian tribes have traditional sacred tools that symbolize connections to nature and spiritual realms. These timeless body adornments are not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the region. 

Beyond Aesthetics: Stories Etched in Ink

These tattoos are intimately entwined with traditional rites marking life stages and social status. Each stroke of the needle carries not only the weight of artistic craftsmanship but also the narratives of individual stories and cultural identity. These tattoos are living testaments to the resilience and continuity of Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage. 

Borneo Hand Tappedd tiling tutuh

Tiling Tutuh: Preserving Tradition Through Artistry

Step into the enchanting world of Tiling Tutuh Sanctuary, a dedicated space where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern techniques. Here, traditional tattooing takes on new life, celebrating its artistic significance through sessions that utilize hand-tapping and hand poke techniques. 

Traditional Techniques

 

Malaka Handpoke

Inspired by the tattoo traditions of Malaka NTT, the Malaka Handpoke method employs a single needle to create intricate, personalized designs, each bearing a distinct rustic charm.  

malaka hand poked tiling tutuh

 

Mentawai Handtapping

Meanwhile, Mentawai Handtapping, an ancient form of body modification, involves tapping designs into the skin using sticks and tools, resulting in permanent tattoos of unique cultural significance. 

mentawai hand tapped tiling tutuh

 

Ornamental Tattoos

At Tiling Tutuh, ornamental tattoos crafted with a machine represent a stunning and contemporary form of body art. These tattoos offer a versatile canvas for self-expression, ranging from delicate and feminine to bold and intricate designs, capturing the essence of cultural richness. 

Ornamental machine tiling tutuh

 

Borneo’s Spiritual motifs

Explore the traditional tattooing method of Borneo Handtapping, a practice embraced by indigenous tribes like the Iban and Dayak people. This ancient art involves tapping ink into the skin using handcrafted tools, resulting in bold and intricate designs that carry deep cultural and spiritual significance. 

Borneo hand tapped tiling tutuh

 

 

Visit Tiling Tutuh

Located at Jl. Hanoman No.10, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia, Tiling Tutuh Sanctuary invites you to discover the artful harmony of tradition and modernity.

Book your appointment today to for a journey of self-expression, cultural appreciation, and artistic mastery. Let our skilled artists transform your vision into an everlasting masterpiece, celebrating the beauty of tradition and the artistry of self-expression. 

Contact us at info@tilingtutuh.com

Visit us on Instagram @tilingtutuh

Website: tilingtutuh.com

Your artistic expression awaits at Tiling Tutuh Sanctuary! 

 

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Instant Karma #20 The Mindful Traveler Magazine Cover Indonesia
Instant Karma #20

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