The Tattoo Project: Commemorative Tattoos, Visual Culture, and the Digital Archive

Unique in scope and content, this methods-based text draws on the process of creating a digital archive of commemorative tattoos to examine the production and mobilization of knowledge across communities, disciplines, and space. Deborah Davidson's multidisciplinary collection addresses the cultural history of tattooing and the social meanings and implications of commemorative tattoos-tattoos that hold significant value for their bearer.

A practical resource for those undertaking archival research or collecting and sharing information across disciplines, this text acts as a template for building connections between academic and non-academic communities. Bridging the gap between theory and practice, The Tattoo Project offers critical insights and tools for courses focused on research methodologies and digital humanities, and provides innovative content for those studying the body, visual culture, and commemoration.

Features

• highlights several case studies and personal narratives to contextualize theoretical and methodological approaches
• includes photographs of archival participants
• features accompanying poetry by award-winning poet Priscila Uppal
• The Tattoo Project digital archive provides additional supplementary materials including photos, videos, and narratives

Deborah Davidson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at York University. Her work focuses on wellbeing and social support, grief and bereavement, and life course.