Kalia Tattoo Ltd

WELCOME to KALIA TATTOO

The process of tattooing in ancient Tonga was a long and painful transition, particularly considering the amount of heavy black coverage in the tattoo. It was considered a mark of manhood. Like other Polynesian culture it is unique because of it's own individual meaning, it is more than just putting ink on skin.

Whilst tattoo traditions across the Pacific have been largely preserved, documented and have enjoyed a resurgence of popularity amongst the younger generation, in Tonga tattoos are still considered taboo by the majority of the population.

The tradition of tattooing in Tonga was abandoned soon after European contact and the arrival of missionaries. It was completely erased in Tonga and tattooing was officially outlawed in 1838. Today, few Tongans even realise that their ancestors bore tattoos, not only has the art been lost over the past two centuries, but even the knowledge of it is slowly forgotten. However, in recent years
a few Tongan tattoo artists are slowly bringing back the Tongan tatatau.

Kalia Tattoo showcases the effortless work of three brothers, King 'Afa, George and Carl Cocker. It gives everyone an insight to their vision of reviving the lost art of Tongan Tattoo, it also documents years of their own hard work and research. The Cocker brothers work is off original designs,it should not be copied or replicated without their permission because each design is for every individual symbolising their own meaning.
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