British Tattoo Art Revealed at Tullie House
British Tattoo Art Revealed at Tullie House – From ruffians to royalty, from sailors to socialites, from pilgrims to punks, tattoos have been etched into bodies throughout British history.
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery will host over 400 original artworks, photographs and historic artefacts, in a major new touring exhibition; Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed. The exhibition is curated by National Maritime Museum Cornwall and runs from Saturday 17 October 2020 until Saturday 16 January 2021 and offers a comprehensive history of British tattooing.
Featuring cutting-edge designers, leading academics and major private collectors it challenges long-standing myths and pre-conceptions about tattooing when it comes to class, gender and age.
The exhibition shows that while the word tattoo may have come into the English language following Captain Cook’s voyages, this was not the start of British tattooing. While showcasing the rich maritime heritage of tattoos, the exhibition also shows how people from all areas of society have always been tattooed.
It is estimated that about one in five of the UK population is tattooed and this figure rises to one in three for young adults. Tattooing in contemporary culture may feel like something new but tattoo art has always held a significant place in Britain’s history.
Charli Summers, Programme Manager, Tullie House said: “We are delighted to be working with National Maritime Museum Cornwall. The exhibition is truly one of a kind; entertaining, challenging, beautiful, and we are thrilled to provide a platform for this rich and varied art form.”
Tullie House has worked with people across Cumbria to create a new documentary, Talking Tattoos, especially for the display at the museum. Members of the public were invited to contribute images of their body art and video footage, telling the tale behind their tats. This video showcases the artwork, celebrates the diversity and shares the stories behind Cumbria’s tattoos.
This fantastic exhibition is the largest gathering of objects and original tattoo artwork ever assembled in the United Kingdom.
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