Suluape Keone Nunes
Nunes, considers himself more of a practitioner than a tattooist. He brought back the art of traditional tattooing to Hawaii in the 90’s, learning from the Samoan kakau (tattoo) master, Sua Suluape Paulo. It’s an art form that doesn’t use machinery, just traditional, handmade tools — made of whale bone, wood and fibers — to tap natural ink into the skin.
In a small hale (house) in the back of Nunes home in Waianae, he prepares for his next subject. The designs he creates relate to genealogies, protection or aumakua (family gods), and the kuleana (responsibility) that goes with them. Nunes says a prayer so that the ink and the tools will work hand in hand to create something that will give mana (spiritual power) to the individual. It’s a special ceremony to witness, but it’s an art form that was almost lost to time.

“When you receive a tattoo, you not only change physically, but oftentimes, there is a deeper change within you.”
Where does the word tattoo come from?
The word "tatau" or "kakau" in actuality means to be placed upon and struck, and that's what we're doing, where "ka" means "to strike," "kau" is "upon," to strike upon the skin. The word "tattoo" comes from the root word "tatau." And it was taken by European sailors and brought back to Europe. And instead of saying "tatau," they called it tattoo.
Tell us about the importance of your tools.
The tools are the conduit of the work. That's why the genealogy of the tools is very, very important. I was very fortunate to have been taught by Sua Suluape Paulo, arguably the best traditional tattooist in the world. In '98, he came over to Hawaii, and he wanted to watch me tattoo. He presented me with some tools and said, "This is for you to reintroduce back to Hawaii." At that time, no one was tattooing like that in Hawaii. I realized that I had a responsibility that I couldn't back away from. It's the tools that choose you, it's not you that chooses the tools.
What was it like getting your first traditional tattoo?
It was just amazing, because to lie there and understand that what you're feeling is exactly what your ancestors felt 1,000, 2,000 years ago is amazing. We're not afforded that opportunity to truly understand how our ancestors felt, because we live in such a contemporary world now. And for me, it was profound.
“It should be taken for its root value, getting back to the basics of who we are as a people.”
What was the importance of a tattooist in ancient Hawaiian times?
In traditional times, there were many people that got tattooed, but it was only people with high rank that had a tremendous amount of work done. Part of it was because the healing process with traditional inks took a lot longer time. So, the tattooist had a very high rank within the overall societal scheme of things. What was told to me was that they are of a high priestly level, so high that they were the only ones that were allowed to shed the blood of alii, of royalty, and not be killed.
Talk about the connection between you and the person receiving a tattoo.
It's not about you, it's about the person you're working with and the connection you have to be able to make sure that whatever design you've decided on will be able to benefit them. So, it’s not just a one-way thing, it’s work that is done by two people that really trust each other.
How do these tattoos connect Native Hawaiians to their roots?
The placement and designs afford the person a connection with their ancestors, a connection with who they are. It reaffirms that person as being kanaka (Native Hawaiian), as being from this place. It gives you a deeper-rooted connection. It gives you a basis, a foundation to continue your life on.
Browse Hawaii Adventures
The Newest Big Island Zipline Tour- Cascading nearly 250 ft., one of the World's most spectacular waterfalls passes under your feet as you glide effortlessly through the air.
As America’s original and most award-winning zipline company, Skyline Hawaii has hosted thousands of eye-opening and memory-making eco-adventures from thrilling zipline tours over 250-foot waterfalls, to sunrises near Haleakalā’s peak to the illuminating Road to Hana tour.
If you can dream it, we can do it. Paradise Helicopters offers you the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime while here in the islands. See volcanoes, waterfalls & more on our helicopter tours, exclusive landings and custom charters departing from Kona, Hilo and Turtle Bay Resort.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Hawaii’s marine life at Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii. Encounter schooling reef fish, sharks, stingrays, turtles, and experience the world's first virtual encounter with Hawaii's humpback whales in the Humpbacks of Hawaii Exhibit & 3D Sphere.
Hawaiian Paddle Sports offers authentic, sustainable eco-tours that empower guests to discover a deeper appreciation of and connection to Hawaii’s marine environment. Guests can choose from private kayak, outrigger canoe, canoe surfing, whale watch, and snorkel tours, or take SUP or surf lessons.
Best way to experience Hawaii, hands down. We are a group of high energy, exciting young locals that want you to get the best photos on your vacation. With over 2000 five star reviews, you don't want to miss out! Digital camera, Phone, Drone, or film camera. Guaranteed to capture amazing images!
Guided by the Aloha Spirit, we strive to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture and people by creating an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking scenery and local experiences.
Explore Oahu from the rainforest with our professional nature guides while, Hiking, Biking, Kayaking, Sailing and Snorkeling. Exclusive access to remote Hawaiian rainforest. Delicious meals and transportation from Waikiki included.
Maui's oldest family-owned and operated sailing company celebrating 45 years of Ocean Adventures with Island Hospitality. Daily sailing trips to Lanai or Molokini. Scuba. Snorkel. BBQ. Tour.
Atlantis Submarines offers a one-of-a-kind underwater experience off the shorelines of Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island, giving guests a close-up view of an array of marine life, exotic tropical reefs and numerous sunken vessels. It's like swimming in a giant aquarium, but staying dry the whole time!