Originally from Tahuata, Tavae’s artistic approach is deeply rooted in Marquesan culture and the heritage of Patutiki.

For him, tattooing goes far beyond aesthetics, it is a symbolic visual language where every composition carries meaning, intention, and personal history.

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Coming from a family closely connected to the preservation of Marquesan culture,

from language to chants and traditional practices, he continues that transmission today through the skin, with a respectful approach to the foundations and cultural depth of Patutiki.

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Tavae was honored to be part of the very first graduating class of the Marquesas Islands’ tattoo school, still the only official training program dedicated to this ancestral art.

This experience allowed him to deepen his understanding of the structure, symbolism, and authenticity behind traditional Marquesan motifs, which he now interprets with precision and balance in each project.

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Specialized in Patutiki-inspired compositions, he creates fully custom pieces designed around the body, its movement, and the story of each individual.

His work also explores a more contemporary direction, where the strength of Marquesan symbolism meets refined lines and modern composition while preserving the spirit and integrity of traditional patterns.

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Each project is approached as a thoughtful collaboration, balancing cultural heritage, personal intention, and timeless composition.

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