A Book and Documentary Video-
For women, social approval of tattooing practices is based upon the understanding
that she will keep her ink small, discrete, and cute--anything more, and
she has definitely crossed the line of acceptable inking practices. May
women never cross that line, they utilize their ink to capitalize on their
sexuality, to promote it--the infamous "chick spot" tattoo.
For others, those that do cross the line, tattooing represents a resistance
to social norms of constructed female beauty--their tattoos are large,
public, and potentially offensive. This project is for those women that
cross the line, become heavily tattooed, and interpret this as an integral
part of their identity. These women are often leaders, feminists, activists--those
strong enough to go against the mainstream current. Additionally, female
tattoo artists face challenges and advantages as they work inside a male
dominated profession. Women and Tattoos presents the heavily tattooed
women and female tattoo artists through interviews, shop visits, conventions,
and personal narratives. Through these dialogues, many topics are discussed:
gender and society, feminism, tattooing, art, activism, hip motherhood,
love, and self-expression.
An article about Rebel Ink Grrls appeared in Tattoos
for Women #81.
Tattoo Grrrl Paintings:
I am working on a series of painting of the tattoo grrrl participants.
They are available for purchase and provide fundraising for the production
of the documentary Covered.
Click for purchasing instructions.