Nicholas explains the deep significance that Uhi Ta Moko holds in Maori culture, and she suggests that it represents the spiritual links between "the practitioner, the client, and their subtribes" (156). The cultural significance is so great, in fact, that it cannot be shared with anyone outside the Maori culture. Can you think of any artistic parallels in other cultures? Do some preliminary research to see if you can find another artistic work that is meant to be shared within a single culture. Draft an explanatory essay on what you've discovered. (See Chapter 6 for details on writing to explain.)
Examine the pair of photographs on page 159. In what ways do you think the Ta Moko design represents the fern frond to its left? How does it transform the image of the fern when it is carved into the human body? What does the pairing of these photographs suggest about the relationship between human beings and nature? Do some research online to learn more about the symbolism of Ta Moko. How does your research on Uhi Ta Moko add to your own analysis? Write a brief visual analysis of a related body-art image to present your findings.
