Women and Non-Binary People’s Tattoos as Feminist Expression
Authors: Tatum, A. and Stockton-Brown, M.
Conference: The Centre for Science, Health, and Data Communication
Dates: 30 October 2024
Abstract:Our research set out to explore the motivations and inspirations for women and non-binary peoples’ feminist tattoos. This research project aimed to explore how women and non-binary people feel about their tattoos and also importantly, if they view them as a form of political participation and/or an expression of solidarity and empowerment. Sarah Banet-Weiser's theory of popular feminism (2018) argues that current feminist expression often lacks the calls for institutional change and collective action that more traditional forms of feminism were based upon. Popular feminism focuses more on image and words, this research aimed to use this as a framework to analyse the relationship between women and feminist tattoos. This talk will outline the key findings from 15 in-depth, narrative interviews with women and non-binary people. Initial findings indicate that tattoos create a sense of empowerment, a sense of self, and an ability to choose for oneself how to present. There is also a sense of community amongst tattooed women and non-binary people, whilst also acknowledging judgement from those outside of the community.
Source: Manual