The Significance of Contemporary Tattoos: Identity, Fashion, and Body Aesthetics

Tattoos, with a history that spans back to the Prehistory of humanity, continue to hold significant cultural meanings in our contemporary society, making them a relevant and engaging topic of study. Tattoos today, therefore, involve combining both elements of traditional non-Western ritual practices and current artistic Western trends. In this presentation, we discuss the popularity of tattoos in urban settings, which has developed into a global tattoo culture. Drawing on an anthropological comparative analysis between tattoo artists in Mexico and Europe, the presentation describes the creative process of tattooing from the artist’s perspective and the growing acceptance of inked bodies in society. It also discusses the meaning of tattoos as fashion and aesthetic identity statements and the performative aspect of getting a tattoo as a meaningful, semi-ritual, intense experience. Finally, the presentation discusses the importance of tattoo conventions and social media as infrastructural platforms in helping share knowledge and build social relations among artists and clients.