Ink in the Lines, an Australian War Memorial touring exhibition, is a stunning photographic exhibition that reveals how Australian veterans and their families share personal stories and experiences through tattoos at Manly Art Gallery and Museum (MAG&M) opening on Friday, 9 June 2023.
The exhibition features more than 70 portraits detailing the experiences of 22 Australian servicemen and servicewomen.
Northern Beaches Council Interim CEO Louise Kerr said the exhibition is thought to be the first in Australia to explore the use of tattoos in the military.
“This is a powerful exhibition courtesy of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra and it is a privilege to have it visit us here in Manly.
“I am sure it will not only interest but stun viewers to see these incredible photographs and to connect with personal stories of people who have proudly served our country, as well as the art of the tattoo,” Ms Kerr said.
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.”
“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,” Ms Boyle 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.
The exhibition includes a comprehensive schedule of associated public programs:
Behind Every Tattoo is a Story, Sat 17 June, 2 - 3pm
Hear the stories behind the tattoos from veterans Newton Thaiposri and Kyle Wilson and Senior Curator Stephanie Boyle, AWM, followed by a Q+A. Book here.
Drawing workshop: Memory and Making, Mon 3 July, 10am - 12pm
Come draw with contemporary artist Lisa Woolfe to create a collaborative and commemorative artwork that will be displayed in the Gallery. Ages 8-14. Book here.
Workshop: Drawing for Tattoos, Thu 13 July, 6 - 7.30pm
Join celebrated tattoo artist Joe Kintz from Whistler St Tattoo to learn about different tattooing styles, genres, and histories then have a go at your own design. Ages 18+. Book here.
Happy Hour & MAG&M: Tacos, Tunes & Tattoos, Friday 28 July, 5 - 8pm
A free event featuring live tattoo demonstrations, DJ beats, taco food truck, and wine sponsored by Little Ripples. Our exhibitions will be open late as part of Creative Open. Free event.
Ink in the lines is on display at Manly Art Gallery and Museum from 9 June to 30 July.
For more information visit the MAG&M website
Media: Download IMAGES and VIDEO.
For media enquiries please phone 0481 907 545 or email media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au