Military Tattoo Exhibition Hits Griffith Gallery

Ink in the Lines, a touring exhibition from the Australian War Memorial, has arrived at Griffith Regional Art Gallery, sharing powerful Australian Defence Force stories told through tattoos.

Featuring more than 70 portraits detailing the experiences of 22 Australian servicemen and servicewomen, the exhibition is thought to be the first in Australia to explore the use of tattoos in the military. By sharing personal accounts of their service, and emotional details of life after the defence force, the exhibition reveals the unifying reasons for getting “inked”, to remember the people, events and experiences which shaped their lives.

Australian War Memorial photographic curator Stephanie Boyle said the veterans’ identities are inscribed on their skin to recognise the commemoration of loss, experiences of trauma and overcoming adversity, the bonds of family and friends, and to acknowledge the experiences that define who they are.

“I hope this exhibition helps visitors to engage with the Australian military in a way they probably haven’t before, so that they see that everyone has an important story to tell, and that some stories can be written on skin,” she said.

Melanie Toscan, Gallery Coordinator said this exhibition is deeply connected through a storytelling experience of servicemen and servicewomen.

“We are so pleased we can be a part of that connection by bringing the exhibition here to Griffith,” Ms Toscan said.

Memorial Director Matt Anderson said he was pleased the Ink in the Lines tour is able to take contemporary military stories around the country, and to connect with today’s veterans and their families in a way that resonates with them.

“The experiences of present-day veterans, and their loved ones, are unique and often intensely private. There is no more personal way to preserve a memory of an event than to have it tattooed on one’s skin: a reminder of the service and sacrifice we all too often take for granted,” Mr Anderson said.

Ink in the lines opens at the Griffith Regional Art Gallery 4pm Saturday 8 May. All are welcome to attend, with no registration fee required. The exhibition will be on display from Saturday 9 May to Sunday 5 July. The Gallery is open Wednesday – Friday from 10am-5pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am – 2pm. Visit www.griffithregionalartgallery.com.au to learn more.