If Tattoos Could Speak
Associate Professor Maja Krtalić's research views tattoos through the lens of information experience to reveal their complexity that extends beyond aesthetics.
If tattoos could speak, what information would they give away? Researchers at Victoria University of Wellington embarked on a project named Tattoo and Information to explore tattoos as an information phenomenon. They found that information is not just embedded in a tattoo image but supports or hinders the entire acquisition process and subsequent life-long wearing of a tattoo.
The tattoo acquisition process is an informational journey. From the initial search for design inspiration to the selection of a skilled artist, people navigate a wealth of information sources and experience a range of information needs. Each interaction, whether with online resources, physical studios or in-person communication with tattoo artists, shapes the holistic information experience of tattoo acquisition. Moreover, the very act of being tattooed enriches the wearer's relationship with the information embedded within their ink. But the information journey through tattoos doesn’t stop there. Wearing the tattoo daily in various settings further enhances this connection between a wearer and their tattoo, and opens a new level of information exchange – every time people look at their tattoo, every time they are asked about their tattoo, every time their tattoo is “read” by another person.
The informational function of tattoos is evident from the point of their creation. Beyond mere decoration, tattoos fulfil multifaceted purposes. They serve as markers of identity, connecting individuals to specific communities or values, while also commemorating loved ones, significant moments, or cultural heritage. Additionally, tattoos can serve as coping mechanisms for emotional challenges or as expressions of personal achievements. Their intricate designs can provide a platform for conveying the complexity of one's affiliations and beliefs, ranging from overt symbolism to nuanced allegory. In essence, tattoos serve as dynamic repositories of personal and collective information, shaping and reflecting individual narratives within broader societal contexts.
Having strong information literacy skills supports tattoo experience. Information literacy is the ability to identify what information you require, know what sources are available to you, and how to articulate your information needs to obtain the appropriate information. This could involve browsing the internet or consulting with individuals who have relevant knowledge. Essentially, it's about knowing how to find the right information when you need it. Information literacy involves assessing the accuracy and relevance of information and using it effectively to meet your needs. Information literacy skills play an important role in the tattoo experience in several ways:
- Firstly, it is essential to have the ability to find information during the preparation stage. This includes searching for image inspiration and understanding what the tattooing process entails. It is important to know where to look for ideas and how to use search strategies effectively to save time and find relevant information. Additionally, it is crucial to know how to find the right tattoo artist and what information sources are available to support your decision. Prioritising health information literacy involves educating yourself about pain management and proper aftercare. This ensures a smooth healing process and reduces the risk of complications. Recognising that not all tattoo experiences are positive is important. Being informed about removal options and coping strategies for regret can be valuable in such situations.
- It is essential to abide by legal regulations when using online images and refrain from copying designs that are protected by copyright. Respecting intellectual property rights and understanding that tattoo designs belong to their creators demonstrates legal literacy. Closely connected to this is cultural literacy, which demonstrates awareness of the cultural and societal implications of tattoo imagery. Some designs may hold significant meaning to certain communities or may not be appropriate in certain contexts. Respecting these factors demonstrates cultural and societal literacy.
- Strong communication skills are vital when interacting with tattoo artists. Clear and respectful communication between both sides fosters trust and ensures that tattoo vision is accurately conveyed. Many tattoo studies have a wealth of information sources available for clients to prepare themselves for all stages of tattoo acquisition.
- In today's digital world, where social media platforms have made it easier to share personal information, it is crucial to be mindful of how one documents and shares their tattoos online and who can access this information. Digital and media literacy skills help us consider what story to tell and to whom, and how to manage information that remains in digital space even when we forget about it.
In summary, we can view tattoos as an information phenomenon and through the lens of information experience. The tattoo information experience is highly diverse and can differ from person to person, and even from tattoo to tattoo. This experience is influenced by various factors including life stages, personality traits, and previous experiences, and is defined by social and cultural contexts in which people exist. All participants in our research reported that tattoos are a way of life that helps them navigate and negotiate their identity, life experiences, and belonging to a community. To quote one participant,
“I am a tattooed person without my tattoos. With every tattoo, I reveal myself; with every tattoo, I was emerging”.
Researchers: Maja Krtalić, Jennifer Campbell-Meier, Spencer Lilley and Corinne Seals
Research supported by the Victoria University of Wellington Faculty Strategic Research Grant.
