Beyond the surface an investigation into the narrative aspects of tattoos

Abstract

Tattooing, a category of body modification, is a popular artistic form of both aesthetic value and self-expression. This dissertation focuses on unravelling the narrative behind tattoos and understanding their relationship to self-identification by means of in-depth research and data collection. A qualitative study, together with primary observation, were carried out in order to obtain personal opinions and narratives pertaining to chosen individuals. The final project reflects and incorporates the obtained results through an interactive installation consisting of four wooden structures that encase stretched linen fabric. Each frame contains three illustrations, one visible and two others which are initially hidden. Once made visible with the back LED lighting, the two hidden images are juxtaposed on the canvas to show a personal interpretation, a recreation of the original tattoo and the true meaning behind it. This approach looks to create a physical artistic representation of this dissertation's findings while also visualising each individual’s hidden narrative. It encourages the audience to look past their own formed opinions while grasping the notion that tattoos hold deeper motives beyond aesthetics or trends in contemporary society.