North Central College is showcasing the art of tattoos in the exhibit, “Behind the Machine: Beyond the Body.”
Photo by Madeleine O’Connell
For years, humans have been adding permanent art to their bodies. From Egyptian times to present day, tattoos have been used as a way to include everlasting symbols of important meaning onto one’s body. They are even evolving into fashion statements and are considered an art form.
“People are starting to wear their artwork and have it on their bodies as tattoos as more of an expression, and its more acceptable compared to what it used to be,” said Nickole Lanham, gallery director at the College.
Photo by Madeleine O’Connell
This exhibit gives tattoo artists the chance to show off their artistic style on the wall instead of on the body. Original artwork will be featured from local studios including Atmosphere Tattoo, Tattoo City and UpRise Tattoo. Displaying these pieces allow the tattoo artists to show off their work in a different way.
“A lot of their artwork is representative of the type of the work they do on people,” said Lanham.
Tattoo shops are now starting to have their own galleries featuring the artists that work there. This gives customers a sense of what type of style the artists’ tattoos will look like.
The display will be held until April 4 in Oesterle Library Gallery.
Time: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 8 p.m.
Pricing: Free
