The Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) is spotlighting the artistry and cultural significance of tattoos with its latest exhibition, MI Ink: The Art of Tattoos. The show, now open to the public through August 31, 2025, features the work of 27 tattoo artists from across Michigan, showcasing tattooing as both a deeply personal form of expression and a legitimate fine art medium.
The exhibition includes striking photographs of 50 individuals adorned with tattoos that range in scale from small, baseball-sized designs to elaborate full-body works. Alongside these portraits, the exhibit presents an array of paintings, ceramics, textiles, and other artworks crafted by the tattoo artists, offering a broader view of their creative talents.
“In fulfillment of our strategic plan goals, we are presenting exhibitions that feature contemporary trends by Michigan artists,” said Sarah Kohn, FIA Director and Curator of Collections and Exhibitions. “While once taboo in the United States, tattoos have become a popular art form that we wanted to explore.”
According to Kohn, one of the exhibit’s key goals is to emphasize the versatility and creativity of tattoo artists, many of whom extend their skills into traditional and nontraditional artistic disciplines. “You get to see how they take the skills they apply to tattooing and apply it to things like ceramics, painting, and textiles,” she said. “The skill and creativity of each artist shines through.”
Beyond aesthetics, MI Ink delves into the emotional and cultural resonance of tattoos, illustrating how body art can serve as a vehicle for memory, identity, and celebration.
“This exhibition illustrates how important self-expression is across all communities,” Kohn explained. “Whether they want to commemorate a moment in their life, memorialize a loved one, celebrate their culture, or just for fun, tattoos can be important tools for people to show themselves on their flesh. The artists in this exhibition bring those visions to life.”
To launch the exhibition, FIA hosted a members-only preview on May 16, featuring a lecture by tattoo anthropologist and author Dr. Lars Krutak. The event included a reception and exclusive viewing of the exhibit. The museum’s Education Department also introduced a unique interactive experience by transforming its Exploration Annex into a replica tattoo parlor, inviting guests of all ages to engage with the art form.
Curating an exhibition centered on tattoo artistry posed unique challenges, particularly in narrowing the scope.
“This art form can be explored in so many ways, and having a solid vision will help it all come together,” Kohn noted. “We knew that we were going to focus on our state and really highlight the artwork of these artists.”
Despite initial uncertainties about artist participation, the project drew enthusiastic responses.
“We were overwhelmed with positive responses. It has been a great time working with everyone,” Kohn said.
MI Ink: The Art of Tattoos is currently on view in the FIA’s Hodge and Temporary Galleries. Admission is free for members, and general admission fees apply for non-members.
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