Stories written in ink.

An introduction for artists, studio owners and industry buyers.

A culture of personal stories

Tattooing in the United States contains many communities and traditions. A useful introduction makes room for personal identity, family stories, artistic expression and the people who create the work. Describe an artist’s own practice rather than treating a whole community as one visual style.

Service, memory and symbolism

The Smithsonian’s discussion of World War II tattoo art shows how designs could express service, remembrance and belonging. Historical flash is a record of its period; new commercial artwork should have its own design and permission history.

Many voices, many meanings

Asian American perspectives add another dimension to the American conversation about tattoos, including questions of cultural identity and stigma. Credit the individual artist and context when presenting a style or story.

Reading visual styles

Build a portfolio around clear categories: American traditional, neo-traditional, black-and-gray, realism, fine line, lettering and geometric work. Explain composition and visual character without promising that every design suits every person. Show original work and distinguish fresh photographs from healed results.

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