NOHOTATAU Paris / Lyon / Marseille @nohotatau Facebook: NOHO TATAU www.nohotatau.com

NOHOTATAU is a Polynesian tattoo artist whose work is deeply rooted in ancestral tradition and cultural identity. Raised in a family closely connected to traditional Polynesian arts—including dance, wood and stone sculpture, and tattooing—his artistic path was shaped from an early age by respect for heritage and symbolic meaning. His practice is defined by a fully freehand approach, allowing each design to be created directly on the body in harmony with its form and with the personal story of each client.

He defines himself as a worldwide tattoo artist, as his career consistently takes him across different countries and cultures. His international agenda continues to expand, with upcoming work scheduled in Australia and China next year. Currently based between Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, NOHOTATAU has built a strong global presence through extensive travel, participation in major international conventions, and numerous awards and recognitions.

In this interview, NOHOTATAU speaks about his origins, his commitment to preserving Polynesian tattooing while allowing it to evolve naturally, the profound connection he builds with his clients, and his future projects—focused on cultural transmission, international collaboration, and the continued expansion of Polynesian tattoo art worldwide.

1.You come from a family closely connected to tattooing. How did your family environment influence your training and development as an artist?

I grew up in a family deeply rooted in Polynesian culture, where many relatives practice dance, sculpture on wood and stone, and tattooing itself. This environment gave me a strong sense of respect for tradition and cultural meaning. I began tattooing on myself before working on others, training independently and exploring the craft on my own. Later, I met a mentor who guided me, helped refine my technique, and showed me the path forward. With that foundation, I was able to take my wings and develop my own artistic voice.

2.Your work keeps ancestral traditions alive. How do you balance respect for cultural heritage with innovation or the natural evolution of your style?

For me, tradition is always the starting point. I study it deeply, understand the meanings, and honor the ancestral rules. From there, I allow my creativity to respond to each client and moment. Innovation doesn’t replace heritage—it dialogues with it. My goal is to preserve the essence while letting the art evolve naturally.

3. Your style is completely freehand. Why do you choose this technique?

Freehand allows me to feel the rhythm of the body and adapt the design in real time. It’s a very intimate process, guided by intuition and conversation with the client. I connect the client’s story with the motifs, so each line reflects the important moments and achievements in their life. Every symbol has meaning and is chosen to honor their experiences. I often say that a Polynesian tattoo done with a stencil is not truly a Polynesian tattoo—it loses the connection to the body and the essence of the tradition.

4. How is the relationship with the client when it comes to designing a piece?

It’s a collaboration. I start by listening carefully to their story, intentions, and what matters to them. Then I translate that into a visual language rooted in Polynesian tradition and my own interpretation. I want each client to feel involved, respected, and connected to their tattoo throughout the process. I also aim to create pieces that are truly unique and nearly impossible to replicate, because every human being is unique in their own way.

5. By traveling all over the world: what differences do you notice in the way different cultures receive and understand Polynesian tattooing?

Traveling extensively has given me a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the world through the lens of Polynesian culture. I’ve seen how this culture can have a profound impact on people. Many clients came to me feeling lost, sad, or struggling in their lives, and through the tattoo process, they found a sense of reconnection, strength, and confidence. It’s powerful to witness someone gain the courage to go through multiple sessions, something they initially felt they couldn’t handle. Every culture responds differently, but the universal effect of Polynesian tattooing—its ability to inspire, heal, and empower—is remarkable.

6. You have participated in more than thirty international conventions and won over thirty awards. What value do you give to these recognitions?

I have participated in around thirty international tattoo conventions and have been fortunate to receive over forty trophies, including international awards and recognition as a jury member at conventions. Among these, I had the honor of receiving a Best of Show, making me the first Polynesian tattoo artist from French Polynesia to achieve this at an international convention. Since then, some of my friends have followed in my footsteps. While these achievements are meaningful, I no longer place the same importance on them as I once did. They taught me humility, because there is always someone better, and they reminded me that success is not the ultimate goal. I am proud of what I have accomplished for my culture, and especially to inspire young Polynesians who may doubt themselves. Coming from a childhood of hardship in a remote place, I hope to show that if you follow your dreams, you can reach your goals. No matter how many trophies we win, the most important gains are the knowledge, experience, and connections with other artists, which allow us to grow and become better versions of ourselves.

7. What are your future projects?

In the future, I want to travel more around the world to share Polynesian tattooing and its cultural significance with new audiences. I also aim to work in the United States, gaining experience and expanding my artistic perspective. I plan to open studios in French Polynesia and France, continuing to develop my work locally while reaching more clients. Building on this, I hope to organize an international cultural tattoo convention on the island of Raiatea, bringing together Polynesian artists from across the Pacific, including New Zealand, Hawaii, and other regions, to showcase their work and celebrate our heritage. I have already organized three editions of a tattoo convention in my home island, which was an incredible experience connecting local artists and the community.

8. If someone wants to get in touch with you, how can they do it?

I personally handle all my clients and their requests. The easiest way to reach me is to search my name on social media or online, which will direct you to my website where you can contact me directly. I make sure to respond personally to each inquiry, so everyone can get the attention and guidance they need.

9. Any special message?

I want to sincerely thank DGN Magazine for this opportunity. I am also deeply grateful to all my clients and everyone who trusts me to share their stories through tattooing. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how far I’ve come—from being homeless to becoming an international, even global tattoo artist. I am truly thankful for the life I have today, and for the chance to continue sharing my culture, my art, and my passion with the world. Every tattoo I create is a reminder of this journey, and of the gratitude I feel every day