When you hear the word “tattoo,” do you immediately think of long-bearded bikers, gung-ho marines, parolees, or screaming heavy metal rockers? If so, the Iroquois Museum in Howes Cave, NY, has a surprise of an exhibit for you…Indian Ink: Iroquois and the Art of Tattoos Exhibit!
Long before tattoos became the edgy markings of rebels, tattoos served as motifs of tribal symbols, memorials to those that passed on, and family connections. Today, they serve as statements of self-expression, political stance, and personal statement (i.e. fanciful butterflies, Marilyn Monroe, and armed forces logos), and have lost that edginess, with nearly 40% of 18 to 35-year-olds sporting some ink!
The exhibit at the Iroquois Museum, one of several fascinating area museums, on display through October 2013, will explore contemporary tattoo art as an art in its own right, always evolving as an expression of our culture, delving into the meaning and methods involved with historical tattooing, with Indian Ink presenting art uniquely Iroquois in expression. “Indian Ink will showcase contemporary tattoo art, both the work of designers such as Lyle Logan, Teejay Dill, and Ike Hopper and skin art selected and commissioned by others.”
On August 17, the Iroquois Museum will host a Motorcycle Ride, with a live runway-style tattoo expo! Here’s the chance for you to strut your “tats” – so bring your dragonflies, tribal bands, peace signs, wolves, and crosses for a chance to win Best in Show, Best Color, Best Black and White, and Most Unusual! This is a super-fun family attraction, so bring the whole fam for some high-quality painted and airbrushed temporary tattoos! The Motorcycle Ride is from 9 am – 5 pm and the contest is at 2 pm.
If you are in Howes Cave NY for the Motorcylce Ride, be sure to stop by Howes Caverns Adventure Park, one of many places around Albany NY worthy of a day trip!
Tell us, will you visit the Iroquois Museum in Howes Cave NY, and experience the Art of Tattoos Exhibit? Will you exhibit your own tattoos at the museum’s Motorcycle Ride?
Photo Credit: The above tattoo belongs to Diane Blackman, owner of All Dawgs Training Services in Latham, NY.
