OVID.tv’s Tattoo Uprising Documents the Evolution of Tattoo Styles
Tattoo Uprising organizes and presents us with a visual timeline of the evolution of tattoo styles, highlighting the impact of prison tattooing – fine line black tattooing – which became popular in Los Angeles. Prisoners innovated makeshift tattoo equipment, finding random items they could engineer into tattoo guns and ink, and tattooed symbols of faith, suffering, freedom, and religion. We then watch as the 1970s and 1980s American tattoo scene exploded and explored abstract, minimalist, and surrealistic designs while also combining traditional American and Japanese styles. Eventually, tattoo artists would develop their own styles by learning from both traditions and including their own visions for the tattoo, creating an individualistic tattoo inspired by tradition and modern expression.
In this writer’s opinion, learning about the role of tattoos in other cultures and different environments is insightful and depicts the depths of the tattoo industry. The extravagant, vibrant images of fire-breathing dragons, koi fish, and majestic phoenixes covering a client’s back allow for an artistically enriching watch. Tattoo Uprising is an informative documentary on the art of tattooing and the societal shift in behavior towards tattoos.
Tattoo Uprising is a perfect fit for tattoo-enthusiasts and people who are fascinated by tattoos but aren’t yet ready for one of their own.
