• May 14, 2024

Oldest Tattoo Artist in The World!

Centenarian Artist: 

Whang-od Oggay is a Filipino tattoo artist from the village of Buscalan in Kalinga, in the Philippines. She was born on 17 February 1917, and turned over a 100 years old. She has been practicing Kalinga tattooing.

 

 Traditional Accessories: 

Whang-od tattoos using only traditional tools that have been handed down over the generations from the Butbut tribe, including a pomelo thorn as needle, bamboo sticks and natural dyes made with charcoal and water.

 

 Last of a Dying Generation: 

Whang-od is the last mambabatok or traditional Kalinga tattooist, of her generation. It’s a tradition that goes back more than a thousand years in Kalinga culture.

 

 Symbolic Constancy: 

Many of the motifs of Whang-od tattoos relate to elements of nature (rivers, mountains) and represent key qualities (strength, courage, tribal identity) that adorn the body.

 

 Cultural Icon and Mentor: 

Whang-od has become a cultural icon in the Philippines and passed on her craft to grandnieces to ensure that she keeps the ancient skills and cultural heritage alive.

 

 International recognition: 

Whang-od has become internationally known, with her tribal tattooing technique being documented and written about in numerous newspapers and documentaries around the world. Her devoted contemporary tattoo followers travel from afar to be tattooed by her in this remote village. 

 

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