Transformative Marks Podcast

Dion Kaszas
  • 5,0 (3)
  • ARTES VISUAIS
  • SEMANAL

A podcast that journeys through the world of Indigenous tattooing, amplifying the voices of ancestral skin markers, Indigenous tattoo artists, cultural tattoo practitioners, and those who wear the marks. Through a mix of interviews and solo shows, Dion Kaszas brings you the entertaining, challenging, and transformative stories behind every dot, line, and stitch. Embedded in each mark is a unique story that brings forward the reality of contemporary Indigenous peoples living a contemporary existence. Our Indigenous ancestors' struggle, pain, tears, resistance, and resilience are celebrated, honored, respected, and embedded underneath our skin. This podcast explores the stories, truths, and histories essential to us as Indigenous tattoo artists, cultural tattoo practitioners, and ancestral skin markers. These stories bring forward our ancestral visual languages and cultures' power, brilliance, and beauty. So that those coming after us are reminded of how amazing we are.  Dion and the Transformative Marks Podcast acknowledge the support of: The Canada Council for the Arts 

  1. 1 DE ABR.

    The Red Road: How Traditional Tattoos Guide One Artist's Sobriety Journey with Nick Wawia

    #060 The journey from addiction to wholeness often requires powerful medicine. For Nicholas Wawia, that medicine came in the form of ancestral skin marking – specifically, the forward-facing red lines across his face that remind him daily to "keep my sights forward" on the red road of sobriety. In this raw, heartfelt conversation with host Dion Kaszas, Nicholas shares how traditional tattooing practices became central to his recovery and identity reclamation. "I need something a little more to reclaim my identity, because all I knew was addiction," he explains, revealing how facial markings serve as both spiritual and practical guides through challenging moments. The horizontal lines keep his vision "locked" forward, while upward-pointing marks ensure his eyes are "guided right back up" whenever they drift downward – a powerful metaphor for maintaining focus on healing. What makes Nicholas's perspective particularly valuable is his position as an emerging practitioner finding his way. Unlike established artists with decades of experience, he offers relatable insights from someone early in their journey, creating accessible entry points for others hesitant to begin exploring ancestral practices. His story demonstrates how Indigenous artforms aren't frozen relics but living traditions that address contemporary challenges like addiction recovery and identity formation. The conversation moves between deeply philosophical reflections on creating "new old" traditions and practical discussions about establishing Trilllectric Tattoo, Nicholas's health-inspected studio in Sudbury. Throughout, both artists emphasize creative expression as medicine: "I owe my life to art," Nicholas states, explaining how marking has kept him connected to purpose and community. Their exchange illuminates how traditional skin marking transcends mere decoration to become a transformative practice of healing, reconnection, and cultural resilience. Whether you're interested in indigenous tattooing practices, recovery journeys, or the power of art as medicine, this episode offers profound insights into how ancestral wisdom can guide us through modern challenges. Subscribe now to join this transformative journey and discover how traditional practices are helping Indigenous communities heal one mark at a time. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Nick at: Instagram @trillectrictattoo and @gchiwaabooz.azhaasowin Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    1h16min

  2. 11 DE MAR.

    From Frontlines to Skin Lines: Finding Balance Through Indigenous Tattooing with Anne Spice

    #059 Anne Spice's journey into ancestral tattooing reveals a profound path toward healing that extends far beyond artistic expression. Beginning as casual practice at a land occupation, her work evolved when she returned to her Whitehorse community with a crucial shift in perspective—approaching people with service rather than extraction. "I went in thinking about how I could be of service," Anne explains, "and it was a game changer." This conversation uncovers how Indigenous tattooing functions as literal medicine, marking significant life transitions from sobriety to grief processing. Working directly with her community health center, Anne has developed tattooing as part of their wellness practice, creating space for community members to honor their healing journeys through permanent marks. The physical pain of receiving a tattoo can release emotional pain stored in the body, reaching places "that our words can't reach"—a powerful tool in a world where Indigenous ceremonies marking life passages have been disrupted. Anne speaks candidly about her frontline land defense experiences and how afterward, receiving a large back tattoo helped her process trauma physically when mental approaches weren't enough. This highlights a crucial aspect of Indigenous tattooing: helping people define themselves through cultural connection rather than opposition to colonial forces. "These aren't markings that make us separate, unique people," she reflects. "They're markings that mark us as part of a collective, as people in relation." For those working to revitalize ancestral practices despite gaps in knowledge, Anne offers encouragement: "It's really worth having the patience and sitting through some of the discomfort to get to the point where our communities start opening up again." Her words remind us that transformation happens when we connect through relationship, opening ourselves to collective healing that transcends individual experience.I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Anne at: Instagram @annespicetattoo Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    1h25min

  3. 28 DE JAN.

    Reviving Ancestral Traditions: Indigenous Tattooing, Identity, and Modern Adaptations with Missy Mahan

    #058 Prepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of Missy Mahan, an Indigenous tattoo artist with roots in the Tohono, O'odham, Yuchi, and Muscogee Nations. With over a decade in the tattoo industry, Missy has skillfully woven her cultural heritage into her art, co-owning Desert Bloom Tattoo in Phoenix, Arizona. Discover how Missy navigated the challenges of the pandemic with financial creativity, all while deepening her connection to ancestral tattoo traditions. Through her lens, we explore the profound cultural significance of traditional facial markings and their role in tribal identity and coming-of-age ceremonies. Listeners will gain insight into the ongoing debate about authenticity in indigenous tattoo practices. We explore how to balance traditional methods with modern techniques, highlighting the adaptability of cultural practices over time. We discuss the importance of visual language and lived experiences, challenging the notion that authenticity is solely tied to ancient methods. Through personal anecdotes and historical examples, Missy offers a fresh take on what it means to authentically embrace one's heritage in the contemporary world. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant Indigenous tattoo and music festival on Turtle Island, where collaboration among artists and musicians breathes life into cultural traditions. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the festival has become a beacon for cultural exchange, with aspirations to expand nationally and internationally.  Tune in for an enlightening journey into the world of indigenous tattoos and the artists committed to keeping these powerful traditions alive. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Missy at: Instagram @missymahanart Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    1h3min

  4. 21 DE JAN.

    Reclaiming Heritage and Identity: The Healing Power of Indigenous Tattooing with Mel Lefebvre

    #057 Imagine reclaiming lost traditions through the art of Indigenous tattooing. Mel, a two-spirit person of Red River, Michif, guides us through their transformative journeys of cultural reconnection. They share compelling stories about the resilience of Indigenous identities in the face of colonial challenges, drawing intriguing parallels between Indigenous and Irish histories. This episode promises insights into how tattoos are not just art but powerful symbols of identity and healing, especially for those seeking to reconnect with their roots. Listeners are invited into an intimate conversation about the personal journeys of identity and healing through the world of traditional tattooing. We explore the intricate balance between academic life and community commitments, examining the pressures and triumphs that come with pursuing a PhD focused on Indigenous tattooing as a form of healing. Dion and Mel share their own pivotal experiences with tattooing, revealing how this ancient practice serves not only as a form of personal expression but also as a vital tool for communal care, especially for two-spirit, trans, and Indigenous women. Throughout our discussion, we tackle the complexities of Indigenous governance and identity, reflecting on the impact of colonial legislation and the ongoing struggle for cultural reclamation. We address the challenges of fostering safe and accountable spaces within the tattoo community, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collective responsibility. With stories that touch on everything from the misuse of Indigenous art forms to the powerful exchanges that occur during tattoo sessions, this episode offers a profound exploration of how artistic expression can lead to both personal and communal healing. Join us as we navigate these rich and multifaceted conversations, pushing forward the narrative of love, resilience, and positive transformation. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Mel at: Instagram @theoriginalmel Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    1h42min

  5. 15 DE JAN.

    Creating Sacred Tattoo Spaces: Embracing Ancestral Practices and Cultivating Inclusivity with Dion Kaszas and Friends

    # 056 Discover a new perspective on tattooing that beautifully intertwines cultural significance, safety, and spiritual healing. With insights from Indigenous artists like Ecko Alec and Jacqueline Merritt, this episode unveils the transformative potential of reclaiming ancestral skin marking practices while confronting personal biases. Listen as we promise to guide you through creating spaces infused with respect, where everyone feels embraced and protected, fostering genuine spiritual and emotional connections. Through our conversation, we tackle the pressing issues of harassment and discrimination within the tattoo industry, highlighting the challenges faced by women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups. We underscore the crucial need for systemic change, inspired by movements like #MeToo, to ensure that the tattooing space is inclusive and empowering. Our guests share their stories, emphasizing the importance of consent, trust, and setting clear boundaries to build safer environments for all. We wrap this episode with a thoughtful discussion on the intersection of tattooing and societal norms, particularly regarding gender identity. Through personal stories and expert insights, we shed light on how shifting industry practices can support authenticity and safety for everyone involved. By embracing education and self-awareness, we aim to inspire a new generation of tattoo artists and clients to challenge the status quo, leaving a legacy of empathy and respect. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work.  You can find Ecko at: Instagram @sac.red.medicine You can find Jacqueline at: Instagram @qwendetlig You can find Geanna at: Instagram @thebodymodfia You can find Romeo at: Instagram @zentattoo You can find Naomi at: Instagram @naomikingtattoos YouTube @naomiking You can find Nate at: Instagram @nate.hartley.tattoos Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts Support the show

    2h

  6. 7 DE JAN.

    Transformative Tattoo Journeys: Healing, Identity, and Community Through Indigenous Markings with Crystal Kimewon

    #055 Crystal Kimewon's journey into Indigenous tattooing is nothing short of transformative and deeply inspiring. We explore how her dream of opening Intertribal Tattoos became a reality, fueled by a passion for healing and self-expression. Crystal opens up about her empowering path, from covering self-harm scars with tattoos to receiving her Anishinaabe spirit name, which fused her identity with ancient cultural roots. Her story is one of resilience, showing how tattoos can serve as powerful tools for overcoming trauma and celebrating cultural identity. Our conversation expands into Crystal's experiences with marking a respected healer and her daughters, which was a profound exploration of community, tradition, and personal healing. We discuss the dynamic process of turning hand poke marking into a mobile business and the importance of preserving cultural integrity while encouraging learning and understanding. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Crystal illustrates the importance of community support in personal evolution and the healing power of traditional practices. Join us as we explore the spirit-led connections made in South Dakota, emphasizing the beauty and resilience of Indigenous tattoo medicine. We highlight the evolving understanding of traditional markings as cultural symbols and affirmations of identity, especially among Indigenous women and two-spirit individuals. This episode is also a reflection on gratitude, where we acknowledge the potential within each person to make a positive impact through shared humanity. Crystal’s journey showcases the transformative power of cultural practices and the collective strength found in community bonds. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Crystal at: Instagram @inkbeader13 Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    1h19min

  7. 31/12/2024

    Inked Stories: Indigenous Sovereignty and the Power of Consent with Dion Kaszas and Friends

    #054 What if reclaiming your cultural heritage could transform your identity, heal past traumas, and empower your future? That's the journey we're on as we conclude the first season of the Transformative Marks podcast. This episode brings together voices from across the globe, including insights from cultural tattoo practitioner Nahaan, who sheds light on the complexities of cultural appropriation and its impact on Indigenous communities. We celebrate the resurgence of ancestral tattooing, a powerful act of cultural resistance, healing, and empowerment, that reinforces the connection to land, identity, and community. Join us as we navigate the intricate landscape of Indigenous sovereignty and the profound role tattooing plays in this ongoing struggle. Through conversations with guests like Geanna Dunbar and Keith Callahoo, we explore the critical importance of consent and creating safer spaces within the tattoo industry. We draw parallels to movements like Me Too, underscoring the responsibilities of practitioners in safeguarding mental health and fostering an environment of respect. By sharing personal stories and community insights, we honor the sacredness of these practices and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. As we wrap up this season, I express my deepest gratitude for the voices and allies who have supported and enriched these conversations. Guests such as Julie Pama-Pengelly and Hacki Williams remind us of the importance of cultural exchange and innovation in preserving our heritage. We urge our listeners to continue supporting the revival of these meaningful traditions, standing in solidarity with Indigenous communities. By doing so, we honor not only the past but also the transformative power of tattooing for personal and cultural healing. I hope you have enjoyed this episode, and I am excited to travel the world of Indigenous tattooing with you as we visit with friends and colleagues from across the globe doing the work. You can find Terje at: Instagram @terje_k YouTube: @terjekoloamatangi2946 You can find Jacqueline at: Instagram @qwendetlig Check out Keith's work at: Instagram @ohnatattoo You can find Gord at: Instagram @gordonsparkstattoos You can find Nahaan at: Instagram @chilkat_tattoo You can find Julie at: Instagram  @julesartistmoko Check out Nolan Malbeuf at: Instagram @malbeuf You can find Megan at: Instagram @livetextiles You can find Haki at: Instagram @hakimoko You can find Makwa at: Instagram @makwa .mashkiki You can find Kanenhariyo at: Instagram @Kanenhariyo.tattoo You can find Geanna at: Instagram @thebodymodfia You can find Ecko at: Instagram @sac.red.medicine You can find Julious at: Instagram @aotearoa_arts Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, ArtsNS and Support4Culture Support the show

    2h6min

  8. 24/12/2024

    Hybrid Northwest Coast Black and Grey Tattooing: Merging Fine and Formline with Chanton Hopkins

    #053 What if tattoos could heal more than just the skin? Join us on Transformative Marks as we sit down with Chanton Hopkins, a gifted tattoo artist from the Stʼatʼimc people, to explore the profound cultural and personal significance behind his artistry. Chanton’s journey into tattooing is marked by his father's nostalgic, old-school tattoos and a compelling love for drawing that sparked at a young age. With a memorable nod from the legendary John the Dutchman, Chanton's path was set, and he shares his experiences growing up with tattoo magazines and his evolution as an artist blending traditional and modern styles. In our conversation, Chanton opens up about the evolution of tattoo machines and how technology, from coil machines to iPads, has reshaped the industry. We dive into the delicate art of tattooing across different skin tones, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting tools like the Ninja Grip that enhanced the tattooing process. Through personal anecdotes, Chanton recounts the vital role of art as both an escape and a storytelling medium—how his son's apprenticeship might intertwine skate culture with Indigenous art to create something truly unique. This episode doesn't shy away from the deeper layers of tattoos as a healing practice. Chanton reflects on the visual sovereignty tattoos provide within Indigenous communities, serving as a beacon of cultural visibility and continuity. We explore personal stories of self-healing and sobriety, the resilience found in traditional healing practices, and the importance of being present in the moment. This episode is a tapestry of insights into how tattoos serve as powerful tools for expression, healing, and cultural identity. You can find Chanton at: Instagram @aboriginal_ink Check out my tattoo work at: https://www.consumedbyink.com Instagram @dionkaszas Buy me a Coffee at: https://ko-fi.com/transformativemarks I acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts Support the show

    1h11min
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Classificações e avaliações

5
de 5
3 avaliações

Sobre

A podcast that journeys through the world of Indigenous tattooing, amplifying the voices of ancestral skin markers, Indigenous tattoo artists, cultural tattoo practitioners, and those who wear the marks. Through a mix of interviews and solo shows, Dion Kaszas brings you the entertaining, challenging, and transformative stories behind every dot, line, and stitch. Embedded in each mark is a unique story that brings forward the reality of contemporary Indigenous peoples living a contemporary existence. Our Indigenous ancestors' struggle, pain, tears, resistance, and resilience are celebrated, honored, respected, and embedded underneath our skin. This podcast explores the stories, truths, and histories essential to us as Indigenous tattoo artists, cultural tattoo practitioners, and ancestral skin markers. These stories bring forward our ancestral visual languages and cultures' power, brilliance, and beauty. So that those coming after us are reminded of how amazing we are.  Dion and the Transformative Marks Podcast acknowledge the support of: The Canada Council for the Arts 

Informações

  • Criado por
    Dion Kaszas
  • Anos de atividade
    2024 - 2025
  • Episódios
    67
  • Classificação
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Transformative Marks Podcast
  • Site do podcast
    Transformative Marks Podcast