Tattooing and Fine Art: Bridging the Gap Between Tattoos and Traditional Art Forms

To Begin,

Tattooing, an ancient art form rich with tradition and history, has recently seen a shift in societal perception. Once considered an emblem of rebellion and nonconformity, tattoos have been woven into the mainstream tapestry of contemporary society. Not only have tattoos become a part of our social fabric, but their recognition as a legitimate form of art has also grown. In the most progressive view, they are seen as artworks that hold the potential to outlive their bearers.

Key Takeaway Points

- Tattoos, which date back to 3250 BC, have evolved from being a subculture associated with nomadic sailors and biker gangs to a mainstream and integral part of today's social fabric.

- The prevalence of tattoos has seen a significant increase, with figures revealing that 30% of all Americans and one-fifth of British adults have at least one tattoo. The figure rises to 40% among Americans under 35 years old.

- Celebrities and influencers have played a significant role in normalizing and popularizing tattoos, with major fashion brands capitalizing on this trend for branding.

- Institutions like Virgin Atlantic and the US Army have relaxed their rules on visible tattoos, indicating changing societal norms.

- Despite the surge in popularity, tattoos should be seen as a historic "medium" rather than a "phenomenon," given their deep-rooted history and cultural significance.

Times Change: Should Tattooing Be Considered Fine Art?

As time progresses, the perception around tattoos and the individuals who bear them change as well.

In the present day, clients are diverse and cross several societal boundaries. Lawyers, doctors, politicians, kids celebrating their 18th birthdays, grandparents are all walks of life getting tattoos. A societal shift is also evident in how tattoos have become more common. In one out of every three people in America, one is tattooed.

But how has tattooing, once seen as a counter-culture movement, become so enmeshed in mainstream culture?

And more importantly, how has it bridged the gap with traditional art forms, achieving a status previously reserved for oil paintings and marble sculptures?

Historically, tattooing has deep roots, with the oldest known example being the 'Iceman' mummy Otzi, dating back to around 3250 B.C. Throughout the centuries, tattoos have held a variety of meanings across different cultures, from symbols of societal status to talismans against evil spirits.

While tattoos were once seen as a deviation from the norm in many Western societies, this perception began to change in the late 20th century. The rise of popular culture, influenced by music, film, and television stars who proudly sported their ink, made tattoos more acceptable to a broader audience.

At the same time, the skill required to create detailed, vivid tattoos began to be more widely recognized. As tattoo artists started to push the boundaries of what could be achieved on human skin, people started to appreciate the artistic value of tattoos. Just like a painter uses a canvas, a tattoo artist uses the skin to express creative vision and craft.

Additionally, the rise of social media has provided a platform for tattoo artists to showcase their work, reaching a global audience. This has opened the door for greater recognition and appreciation of tattooing as an art form, further closing the gap between traditional and contemporary artistic practices.

However, it's important to remember that, while the craft of tattooing has evolved and gained recognition as a legitimate art form, the personal and intimate nature of tattoos remains.

Each tattoo carries a unique story, whether it's a memory, a symbol of personal growth, or a piece of art that simply resonates with the individual. In this way, tattoos become living, breathing artworks that change and evolve with their owners.

Recent Times and the Prevalence of Tattoos

In more recent times, the prevalence of tattoos among the general population has seen a significant rise.  About one-fifth of British adults were tattooed, and approximately 30% of all Americans boast at least one tattoo. For under-35s, that jumps to 40%.

An activity once perceived as exclusive to nomadic sailors and biker gangs has now firmly entered the mainstream, becoming a $3 billion-a-year industry.

Modern-day celebrities and influencers have played a significant role in normalizing and popularizing tattoos. It is now a common sight to see global pop icons such as Post Malone, and world-renowned athletes like Lionel Messi, sporting intricate tattoos all over their bodies and faces. Major fashion brands capitalize on this trend by featuring heavily tattooed celebrities. Tattoos are increasingly on display from Virgin Atlantic staff to the US Army relaxing its historically stringent rules prohibiting visible tattoos on troops, citing changing societal norms.

Parting Thoughts