Lance Ngata is a artist of Ta-moko and custodian of Maori traditions

Lance Ngata is a Tā moko tattoo artist from New Zealand and the founder of Mau Studio Ink. His unique journey as an artist began in the small town of Uawa, where he developed a passion for drawing from a young age. At just 12 years old, Lance focused on the art of Toi Māori, with his design education playing a significant role in shaping his professional style.

Tā moko: Culture and Meaning

Tā moko is the traditional tattoo art of the Māori people, deeply rooted in the culture of New Zealand's indigenous community. These intricate designs reflect personal and tribal history, status, achievements, and social connections. Unlike modern tattoos, Tā moko is applied using chisels, creating unique patterns that emphasize the sacred nature of the process.

The face, considered the most revered part of the body, often serves as a canvas for these tattoos. Men typically cover their entire faces with Tā moko designs, while women adorn their chins or lips. Lance is a Tā moko artist and a guardian of Māori traditions.

Lance’s Professional Journey

After many years in creative agencies, Lance pursued further education at the University of Waikato, where he studied teaching. He later trained in whakairo (traditional Māori carving) at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) in Rotorua. His experience included participating in cultural projects for indigenous communities worldwide through NZMACI/Te Puia.

Returning to Turangi, Lance began teaching art and whakairo at a local kura (school), furthering his growth as a Tā moko artist. Under the guidance of Tohunga Tā Moko Mark Kopua, he became an active participant in initiatives promoting the preservation and development of moko art within Māori communities. Lance collaborates with several cultural collectives, including Toi Hauiti, Mahi a Atua, and Nga Matarau o Paepae Aotea.

Founding Mau Studio Ink

In 2017, Lance established Mau Studio Ink, a creative space where he could share his art and cultural heritage with New Zealanders. The studio has become a hub for preserving and evolving the traditions of Tā moko in the modern world. Follow Lance’s creative journey on Facebook (@Mau Studio Ink) and Instagram (@lance_ngata).