Design in Society: Body Art (Tattoos)

Tattoos are a prominent form of art and expression that serve as a strong basis for communication. The symbols that individuals choose to imprint on their bodies carry great significance and generally disclose personal information that others are able to grasp without personally knowing who that person is and simply by looking at a mere piece of art that is designed on one's body. There are several stories behind the tattoos that individuals possess. Often times, individuals utilize body art as a means to communicate ones culture or ethnic background. Symbols deriving from one’s country of origin or flag are usually utilized to communicate their sense of pride and admiration towards their home country. My older sister, for example, acquired a tattoo designed similar to the symbols that can be found on the Filipino flag as a way to represent and showcase her devotion towards the country that she was born in. They may also serve as a way of expressing one’s spirituality or faith. This is most notably represented through religious symbols that communicate an individuals moral beliefs. Oftentimes, I come across an individual with tattoos of crosses to represent their christianity or verses deriving from the Holy Bible. Aside from utilizing body art as a means of communicating one’s ethnic or religious background, they are also used as memorials for loved ones, which is typically represented through an image, date, or name commemorating those whom they have lost. These tattoos allow individuals to pay tribute to these individuals and communicate their significance within their lives. Thus, tattoos are a significant tool for communication, in that they visually communicate and uncover personal stories about individuals through the examiniation of single design. While design, overall is a significant tool for communication; the way in which it is used in body art possesses a stronger, more personal form of communication between individuals. When we meet an individual who possesses a tattoo, communication generally sparks regarding the meaning behind it. Thus, tattoos can communicate a lot about a person's life, what they have gone through, what they are interested in, and what they believe in. They are not merely utilized as a source of visual pleasure, but as a means to communicate hidden stories from within.