It’s fitting that the new MoPOP tattoo exhibit sits right next to “Nirvana – taking punk to the masses.” Although Kurt Cobain had only one tattoo (a small ”K” on his arm), he certainly inspired a ton of fans to tattoo their body with his likeness.

Indeed, the MoPOP exhibit examines the affect pop culture has had on tattoos. But, it also dives into the history of how the tattoo has gained mainstream acceptance throughout time.  As lead curator Amalia Kozloff points out, “The idea of a tattoo was once taboo, now it’s an intrinsic part of our self-expression.”

Regional tattoo artists at MoPOP

As you wind your way through the exhibit, original works from 11 tattoo artists grab your attention. Commissioned by MoPOP, the tattoo artists hail from the Pacific Northwest and provide a wide variety of styles and individuality. (See list of artists below.)

“Tattoos are a true art form, they are artist who create them and we want to celebrate that,” noted exhibition co-curator, Rosie Alyea, at a recent press preview.

A small replica of their original work is positioned nearby. This provides a tactile experience – similar to what a tattoo feels like moments after it is applied. Of course, touching the mini tattoo at MoPOP is encouraged.

In addition to the original art work featured on the tri-walls, there are community submitted photos exploring the various applications and the utility behind certain tattoos. One focus is on cover-up and restorative tattoos that are breast surgery related. In this case, the tattoos are either used to cover up mastectomy scars or for nipple restorations.

Tattoos through the ages

In presenting a timeline, MoPOP focuses on the traditional art form of the indigenous tattoo work. This display features some local traditions as well as a poem by Sasha LaPointe, an artist from the Upper Skagit and Nooksack Indian Tribe.

Other key turning points are featured including the history of tattoos in the military. Actually, one of the first to codify images in a tattoo, 90% of those who have served in the military have tattoos. Sailor Jerry, the Tattoo Ladies, and of course, Jim Rose Circus Sideshow, all have their stories told.

Although tattooing was banned in many American cities throughout the first half of the 20^th century, tattoos in the U.S. are ubiquitous today. Makes sense, given Americans spend approximately $165 billion on tattoos a year.

And, if you have a rose tattoo, consider yourself in good company. MoPOP lets us know that the rose is featured more on Instagram than any other tattoo.

Global trends

But, not all countries are as accepting of the practice. From a global perspective, MoPOP provides a list of countries that are not so tattoo-friendly. You may be able to guess what some of those countries are – China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea. And, if you have a Buddha tattoo, you would be wise to cover it up when you visit Sri Lanka.

Surely, you can spend hours in the exhibit going over the history, the artifacts and the fun interactive stations throughout MoPOP’s Body of Work: Tattoo Culture. There’s even a display containing the smallest tattoo needle ever used right alongside the world’s largest needle.

All good things take time

But if you want to see what kind of commitment a tattoo takes, check out the time lapse video courtesy of Aaron Bell of Slave to the Needle. The video captures about 3-hours of tattoo work in just a couple of minutes.

Meanwhile, if the exhibit inspires you to get your first tattoo, you might want to check out the pain map on display. The map illustrates the least painful – to most painful place on your body for a tattoo. Let’s just say that I’m not getting a tattoo on my sternum anytime soon.

MoPOP’s Body of Work: Tattoo Culture runs through May 23. You can find additional information on the exhibit and associated programs here. In addition, MoPOP’s Minecraft exhibition is on display and is a recommended stop on your next visit.

Commissioned tattoo artists

Aaron Bell
Cory Boersma
Dustin Burt
Nomi Chi
Alena Chun
Ricky Gaspar
Ciara Havishya
Kirsten Holliday
Sara Kay
LoliPop
Nate Leslie