The Effects of Media in the Tattoo Industry

Abstract

This senior project explores how media has contributed to the growth of the tattoo industry. The two media types that this project focuses on our social media and reality TV. In order to conclude with an informed analysis, the historical context of the industry and the effect of recent technology are both taken into consideration. For the purpose of this project, modern tattooing will be defined as tattooing done in the 21st century. The reasoning for this definition is to highlight the significant shifts within tattoo culture under the influence of social media and exposure to the mainstream. The overall expansion of the tattoo industry has birthed new tattoo styles and aesthetics at a pace that has not been seen since the invention of the electric tattoo machine.