This is a difficult story to tell. The colonization of the Spaniards and the subsequent invasion of consumer values of North America have reduced considerably the tracks and practices related to indigenous traditions.
Every body modification practiced within the tribe is linked to the symbols, rites of passage or private social, collective amendments to the Statute of the individual. The moivi and symbols used are inspired by ntaura, plants, tissues, animals, insects, geometric patterns that can be seen in the clothes and dishes.
Currently, there isn't a true school of South American traditional tattoo, the tattoo is considered "South America style" when they copy marginalized symbols of groups such as Chicanos or gangs like the mala 13.
In contrast to the Maori or Polynesian culture in South America, there was a systematic extermination of the natives. The few that still survive take refuge small communities scattered and have not a representation that conveys their values abroad, beyond the borders.
The cultural richness of the various indigenous groups are protected and hidden by nature. The places where indigenous peoples are isolated, they are virtually uninhabitable for whites.
Only someone who comes from a family native can know the symbols and meanings; the books discussing this topic are extremely difficult to find.
I own these books and my family is indigenous.
Enjoi your skin!
