Temauri Jouot is a distinguished French tattoo artist with Polynesian roots, whose work has gained recognition across Europe and beyond. With a deep respect for the cultural origins of his craft, Temauri seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary elements, creating striking and meaningful tattoos that resonate deeply with his clients. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his journey, creative process, and dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Polynesian tattoo art.
Could you share your journey into the world of tattooing? What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?
- I believe that at some point in our lives, we all feel the need for renewal. When I was younger, kids made fun of me at school, calling me “the Chinese” because of my slanted eyes. For a long time, I distanced myself from my origins. It wasn’t until later that I felt the need to reconnect. I started getting tattooed, then learned how to sculpt, and that’s when I realized I could tattoo as well.
Growing up in France with Polynesian roots, how did your cultural heritage influence your decision to pursue tattooing?
- I sincerely believe that Polynesians are naturally skilled with their hands—it’s in our genes. Since school wasn’t for me, I quickly turned to construction, where I worked as a tiler and later as a site manager for many years. Years later, I got my first tattoos and paid close attention to the process. I started by carving Tiki statues out of stone and eventually discovered Tatau. I immediately knew this was for me and that I would thrive in it.
You specialize in various Polynesian tattoo styles, including Patutiki, modern Polynesian, Samoan, and Maori. How did you master these diverse styles?
- It all comes down to observation. Polynesian art is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, and every artist has been inspired by others along the way. I’ve drawn inspiration from many talented artists, each with their own unique style, which has helped shape my journey. I’ve learned so much simply by watching—whether during my travels, at conventions, or while working as a guest artist. Each experience has added a new layer to my understanding and appreciation of these incredible styles.
Your tattoos are created freehand directly on the skin. Could you elaborate on this technique and its significance in Polynesian culture?
- This is the very essence of Polynesian tattooing. Tatau perfectly follows the curves of the body. Whether someone has rounder shapes or a well-defined musculature, the design aligns harmoniously with their body’s lines. With a stencil, it’s impossible to achieve the right proportions. Every body is different. For instance, with some people, you can stop at the rounded part of the shoulder, but for others, you need to include part of the trapezius to avoid “breaking” the line of the shoulder.
From an aesthetic perspective, it’s all about proportions. But spiritually, I always draw based on the emotion of the moment. I can’t know in advance which patterns I’ll use, so the creation only happens on the day of the session. That’s why it’s essential to know as many patterns as possible and to practice extensively on paper. In my early years, that’s all I did—drawing in my spare time.
You've won numerous awards at major tattoo conventions across Europe, including first place at France's largest convention in Deauville in 2022. How have these accolades impacted your career?
- Of course, winning a prize at a convention is always a great satisfaction, but when it’s at a globally renowned convention, it has even more impact. The pride is immense. It positions us among our peers, allows us to stand out, and helps us gain recognition.
Could you share your experiences participating in international tattoo conventions and what you've learned from them?
- It’s an extraordinary experience. I always say it’s an opportunity to measure your worth. Only at major conventions can you truly step back and see where you stand compared to others. The Polynesian community is small, and it’s easy to find yourself at the bottom of the ladder. That’s what drives me. I haven’t always won prizes, but when I don’t, it somehow motivates me even more for the next time. For instance, in Deauville, with Moana Toa, Matatini, and Steve TivetattooArtist, it’s always a “good war.” We have a lot of respect for each other, but let’s be honest—we all want to be first! (laughs)
At the 2023 Deauville Tattoo Festival, you secured third place in the Best Big Polynesian category. What unique challenges do you encounter when creating large-scale Polynesian tattoos, and how do you approach these complex projects?
- Crafting large-scale Polynesian tattoos presents a unique set of challenges that demand meticulous planning and execution. These intricate designs require a deep understanding of Polynesian symbolism and the ability to harmoniously integrate complex patterns with the body's natural contours. My approach involves extensive collaboration with clients to ensure the design not only tells a meaningful story but also respects cultural traditions. The process demands exceptional focus and endurance from both artist and client, making each piece a true testament to the art form's depth and complexity.
You've achieved a remarkable feat by winning first place in the Tribal/Maori category at UrbanLand Tattoo Expo Roma for three consecutive years (2019-2021). How did this experience at one of Europe's largest tattoo conventions shape your career?
- The UrbanLand Tattoo Expo Roma was an exhilarating experience that significantly impacted my career trajectory. The sheer scale of talent and creativity at this renowned convention was awe-inspiring. Securing the top spot in the Tribal/Maori category for three years running was an incredible achievement that not only boosted my confidence but also solidified my reputation within the European tattoo community.
Your Polynesian tattoo style has garnered significant acclaim, including top honors at prestigious events like the Deauville Tattoo Festival and Salon du Tatouage Clermont Ferrand. How does this recognition impact your artistic journey?
- Receiving such esteemed recognition for my work in Polynesian tattooing is truly humbling. These accolades serve as a powerful affirmation of the countless hours I've invested in honing my craft. They not only celebrate the intricate beauty of Polynesian tattoo artistry but also fuel my passion to continually evolve and push the boundaries of this traditional art form.
Your sponsorship by Must Tattoo Skin Care, a company known for collaborating with elite tattoo artists, is noteworthy. Can you share how this partnership developed and what being part of their "Must Family" means to you?
- Joining the Must Tattoo Skin Care family marked a significant milestone in my professional journey. This sponsorship is a testament to the quality of my work and aligns me with a brand that prioritizes excellence in tattoo artistry and aftercare. Being part of the "Must Family" not only provides me with top-tier products for my clients but also connects me to a network of respected artists, fostering growth and collaboration within the industry.
What do you look for in a sponsorship, and how do you choose brands to collaborate with?
- Actually, it was Must who came to me. Before that, I hadn’t really thought about it. I’ve always bought my own equipment and, over time, selected what worked best for me: KWADRON needles, FK Irons machines, and ECLIPSE ink. If these three brands were to sponsor me, I’d honestly be the happiest person in the world. Sometimes, I message or tag them on social media, but honestly, I don’t really know how to approach them.
Polynesian tattoos carry deep cultural meanings. How do you ensure that each design reflects the personal journey and story of your clients?
- You need to know the patterns. Imagine wanting to write a book but only knowing a limited vocabulary—you’d be restricted in your storytelling. It’s the same for me. Each pattern has a specific meaning, both individually and in combination with others. When one pattern is placed next to another, it can take on an even more powerful meaning.
Can you describe the process of consulting with a client to create a personalized tattoo that honors Polynesian traditions?
- My approach is simple: I let creativity happen on the day of the session. When the client contacts me, we define the project—such as the desired area (e.g., a shoulder) and the preferred style (e.g., patutiki). That’s all I need to set an appointment and provide a quote. On the day of the session, we start with a coffee. Slowly, I get a sense of the person: they’re married, they have two kids… I observe and capture their emotions in the moment. That’s when everything begins to take shape in my mind. I know exactly which patterns to use—those that reflect the client’s life story and personality.
What challenges have you faced as a Polynesian tattoo artist in Europe, and how have you overcome them?
- My entire tattooing journey has been a challenge. My first big challenge was starting this adventure on my own, learning everything by myself. Recently, my wife made a Facebook post showing one photo per year, starting from 2015. It’s clear I didn’t start or have the same opportunities as my apprentices (the people I’ve trained), but it’s helped everyone see how far I’ve come. I didn’t have the chance to be trained by anyone, and I made many mistakes on my own. But that’s what gave me the drive to improve and constantly push myself. I have a competitive spirit, and it pushes me to strive higher. My next challenge is to become known worldwide, starting with the United States. I want to share my culture as much as possible.
How do you stay updated with evolving trends in the tattoo industry while preserving traditional Polynesian art forms?
- You must not isolate yourself. Having your own shop is great, but you shouldn’t stay confined within those four walls. The world of tattooing, regardless of the style, is constantly evolving, and you need to stay up to date. That’s why, even after all these years, I still participate in guest spots, conventions, and keep observing.
You've been featured in various media outlets, including a report by France 3. How do you use media exposure to educate the public about Polynesian tattoo art?
- I’m extremely happy to have been interviewed by France 3. It was an honor. The link is on my website and Facebook, but I don’t bring it up much. I try to keep my social media dynamic by sharing recent experiences, and I don’t want to use that interview to boast about any kind of fame. I always say there’s enough for everyone. My clients choose me for my work, and that’s what matters most.
Do you offer workshops or apprenticeships for aspiring tattoo artists interested in learning Polynesian styles?
- From 2019 to 2024, I trained four people, but for now, I’m taking a break. It takes a lot of time and energy. However, I’m always willing to answer questions and give advice as best I can.
How do you envision the evolution of Polynesian tattoo art in the global tattoo community?
- In my opinion, Polynesian tattooing is still not fully appreciated today. I’d like people to understand the work and knowledge behind it, especially the power of its meaning. But above all, I want it to remain authentic and not fall into a trend that could dilute its essence over time.
What has been the most rewarding experience in your tattooing career so far?
- The most enriching experience is my career as a tattoo artist. The joy comes from sharing moments with my Polynesian brothers during guest spots or conventions. We’re scattered all over the world, but these occasions bring us together. The mana (energy) is powerful, uniting us and making us a family.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering their first tattoo, especially a Polynesian design, what would it be?
- If the tattoo artist isn’t me, I would advise making sure they are Polynesian or, at the very least, deeply familiar with the culture and patterns. That way, the creation will be unique and hand-drawn to reflect the client’s life story.
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