Traditional tattooing is an intricate ancient art of Samoa and is unique in Polynesia. Young Samoan males are tattooed from the lower chest to the knees with complex symbolic designs by a highly skilled traditional ‘tufuga’, or tattooist, using age-old tools and techniques.

The ‘pe’a’ or ‘tatau’ or tattoo, is usually completed in a few weeks during a very painful ordeal but will forever identify him as a proud and courageous Samoan. Females are also occasionally traditionally tattooed, the ‘malu’, from the thighs to the knees, however, the more delicate design differs greatly from the males.