‘Talking Tattoos’ campaign to shed light on the vibrant tattoo culture in Cumbria

National Maritime Museum Tattoo (Abbi Hughes)

A new crowdsourcing campaign launched this week encouraging people in Cumbria to come forward with their tattoo stories.

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery are creating new audience engagement content to accompany the forthcoming Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed exhibition coming this Autumn. The radical touring exhibition curated by the National Maritime Museum Cornwall is the largest gathering of real objects and original tattoo artwork ever assembled in the UK, telling the fascinating history of tattoos in Britain through the centuries and challenging many misconceptions surrounding tattoos. It also aims to raise the profile of tattoo art, celebrating a rich artistic heritage of tattooing as an artwork in the UK and showcasing the work of British artists past and present.

In the latest campaign, Tullie House are asking local people to share their own tattoo stories and artwork to create a new film to accompany the exhibition. The timely project will illuminate the world of tattoos and tattoo culture in Cumbria. Breaking down some of the stereotypes associated with tattoos and celebrate the diversity and art of Cumbria’s tattoos. The digital content curated will also be considered as part of a wider commitment to contemporary collecting at the museum.

Adhering to social distancing guidelines, the museum will be collecting information via social media and digital platforms. The programme and exhibitions team are confident that it will be well received particularly due to the thriving tattoo culture and community in Cumbria. To get involved and share your tattoo stories visit Tullie House’s website or keep an eye on their social media channels. The call for contributions will open on Sunday 30 August and close on Monday 7 September 2020.

Charli Summers, Programme Manager, Tullie House said “We are excited to be working with the National Maritime Museum Cornwall for the first time to bring this exclusive exhibition to Carlisle. It offers a ground-breaking insight into the history of British tattooing. Featuring over 400 original artworks, photographs, and historic artefacts, it tells a story that challenges the most deeply held myths and pre-conceptions about tattooing. Our Talking Tattoos campaign will provide a timely opportunity to encourage our local audiences to get involved by bringing their own tattoo stories alive and highlight the vibrant tattoo culture in Cumbria.”

‘Talking Tattoos’ campaign details will be available online from Sunday 30 August and Monday 7 September 2020 and can be viewed via Tullie House’s social media channels and on the website.