by Noa Blu In the heart of Kaohsiung, a southern city of Taiwan, the recent Taiwan Tattoo Convention (台灣國際紋身藝術展) captivated enthusiasts and artists alike, creating the city into a vibrant canvas of inked creativity. The convention, which was held at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Centre, showcased the evolution of tattoo culture in Taiwan, combining traditional influences with modern artistry. The convention, which lasted from March 1st to 3rd, had an exceptional turnout. As attendees weaved through booth after booth of artists showing off their work and offering tattoos, there were music and dance performances, as well as Muay Thai fights happening outside. To a tattoo fanatic, it was the place to be. Attendees revelled in the kaleidoscope of styles on display, from intricate traditional Chinese motifs to contemporary minimalist designs. Renowned tattoo artists from across Asia gathered to share their expertise and push the boundaries of the craft. Visitors were treated to live demonstrations, witnessing the fusion of ancient techniques with cutting-edge innovations. Several attendees, invited by their artists, wore minimal clothing and became walking advertisements. Others were entered into competitions where the artists could win plaques in the style of a skateboard, showing their skills. Taiwan, with its diverse indigenous communities, boasts a distinct tattooing history. Many tribes, including the Atayal and Paiwan, traditionally practised facial and body tattooing, marking significant life events and achievements. Despite facing suppression during periods of colonization, tattooing persisted, and today, there is a renewed interest in preserving and reviving these cultural practices, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of Taiwan's tattooing heritage. At this convention, a Paiwan tribal artist named Cudjuy Patjidres, adorned with distinctive facial and body tattoos, was there using the traditional non-electric method to tattoo. The convention also served as a platform for dialogue on the evolving social perceptions of tattoos in Taiwan. As the younger generation slowly embraces body art as a form of self-expression, the convention plays a pivotal role in bridging generational gaps and promoting inclusivity within Taiwan's diverse tattoo community. People both young and old meandered through the exhibition centre, some even bringing their children and pets with them. The Taiwan Tattoo Convention not only celebrated the thriving ink culture but also highlighted the nation's commitment to preserving its cultural roots in the ever-changing landscape of modern tattooing.
Despite the current taboos surrounding body art, tattooing has a rich and diverse history in Asia, with each culture contributing unique traditions and meanings to this ancient art form. In Japan, for example, tattoos have been prevalent since the Jomon period (10,000 BCE to 300 CE), initially associated with spiritual and decorative purposes. Over time, they evolved into a form of punishment during the Edo period (1603-1868) which is one of the primary reasons tattoos are now associated with criminals and the Yakuza crime syndicates. These criminals, upon being tattooed for their crimes, began to bear it as a badge of honour, and a method of self-expression. Nonetheless, this original perception has led to widespread discrimination against individuals adorned with tattoos, particularly in professional settings. Now, however, there is a resurgence among young people who use tattoos as expressions of personal and artistic identity in the modern era, though generally less than in other Asian countries. In China, tattooing dates back to the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE), where evidence suggests its use for religious and ceremonial practices, however, the art diminished in popularity over the centuries due to Confucian influences associating tattoos with criminality. Nevertheless, various ethnic minorities, such as the Dulong and Dai, have maintained tattooing as an integral part of their cultural identity. Cities in China, especially Hong Kong, Macau, and Shanghai, boast a thriving tattoo industry, and many artists travelled from there to participate in the convention. In more conservative societies, such as certain parts of South Asia, tattoos may be viewed as a deviation from traditional values and cultural norms. The notion of permanently marking one's body can clash with prevailing beliefs about modesty and conformity, leading to ostracization or familial disapproval. Despite these taboos, attitudes toward tattooing in Asia are evolving, particularly among younger generations. As globalization brings about cultural exchange and shifts in societal norms, tattoos are increasingly being embraced as forms of self-expression and artistic appreciation, challenging traditional taboos and reshaping perceptions of body art across the continent. The convergence of tradition and modernity echoes Taiwan’s dynamic spirit. Beyond the inked masterpieces, this gathering underscores the significance of self-expression in a society that is embracing individuality. From ancient indigenous practices to contemporary innovations, the convention serves as a testament to the enduring power of tattoos as a form of personal storytelling. As Taiwan continues to weave its cultural narratives onto the global stage, the diverse array of ink on display reflects not only artistic prowess but also the profound importance of self-expression in shaping identity and fostering inclusivity in this ever-evolving canvas of human experience. a
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May 2024
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