Beyond Skin Deep: The Art of Informed Tattoo Collection

Self-discovery presents itself in a myriad of forms. One of the forms utilized for this purpose is that of artistic expression. Tattooing as a vehicle of artistic expression has evolved over time and today tattoos are utilized as a mechanism for self- discovery. This study seeks to expand on prior research conducted by Kathryn Irwin (2003) in efforts to classify a new subcategory of tattoo collection, that of the informed tattoo collector. Using Peter Burke?s Identity Theory (1996), this study utilizes the concepts of identity, salience, commitment and self-knowledge to gain insight into the process of becoming an informed tattoo collector.