Tattoo Gathering needs some help
Miciah Statis-Harding tattooing at a previous gathering. Courtesy Karonhienhawe Nicholas
Fundraising has begun for the fifth annual Kanesatake Traditional Tattoo Gathering, which will bring together Indigenous tattoo artists from across Canada, the United States, and possibly Mexico.
“Carrying on traditions almost lost is something close to my heart,” said organizer Karonhienhawe Nicholas, who added that while there is no official fundraising goal, a few thousand dollars is what is needed to cover the costs for the artists. “Everything I put into it, I don’t expect anything for it, as long as the gathering goes smooth and the artists and clients are happy.”
Nicholas said that the gathering has grown and evolved over the years, with attendance often depending on the season and the artists’ ability to travel. This year’s event is being held in September, when Nicholas hopes cooler temperatures will make the experience more comfortable for participants and artists.
“Our first one was my favourite gathering,” said Nicholas, who added that during the first gathering there were traditional artists who shared their knowledge about traditional ink, the specific wood to burn, and what ink and charcoal to use.
“It was really nice to have that, I’m still debating on whether I want to bring that back again,” said Nicholas. “I think because it was the first event, it was so beautiful.”
The tattoos that will be offered are hand-poked traditional style, and the fundraised money will go towards the tattoo artists’ travel, lodging, and food expenses.
“It’s deeper than just a mark upon your skin, it’s your story, the healing that you needed, your connection with other people. It’s our first form of sovereignty,” said Miciah Statis-Harding, a returning artist from Massachusetts and member of the Herring Pond Wampanoag Nation.
Statis-Harding said the gathering has become one of the most meaningful experiences in her tattooing journey.
“I was able to grow a family out there in Canada,” said Statis-Harding, who has attended the gatherings for four years. “It was nice to have people with the same mindset as me around.”
Statis-Harding added that in Massachusetts, there are not many traditional tattoo practitioners in her area or surrounding states.
“It can get really lonely doing tattooing and carrying that medicine,” said Statis-Harding. “Being around people who carry that same medicine bundle was really awesome. I showed up not knowing anybody here, and I was welcomed. I felt so at home.”
The Tattoo Gathering is not just about tattoos. Statis-Harding said that it is a space for healing, cultural exchange, and community connection.
“I always get this ‘powwow high’ when you’re around everybody and there’s all this energy,” said Statis-Harding. “It’s way better than that, this is just pure medicine.”
For Statis-Harding, the gathering is something she hopes everyone can experience in their lifetime.
Sign up for email updates from The Eastern Door
“We’re no longer allowing colonization to define what we’re supposed to look like,” said Statis-Harding. “We’re taking that back ourselves. It’s deeper than just a mark upon your skin.”
Statis-Harding said that she encourages first-time attendees to approach the gathering with an open mind and heart, adding that receiving a tattoo is a personal journey.
“Your tattoos are your story, your medicine,” said Statis-Harding. “If you don’t connect with a particular design or artist, that’s okay. It’s your journey, and your decision.”
Fern Marmont, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
