The UCSB Tattoo Project

The UCSB Tattoo Project, led by Mexican-Americans Kali Garcia and Melissa Jauregui, aims to challenge tattoo stigma and highlight Chicano and Indigenous cultural influences through a sculptural installation of tattooed faux skins. The work will incorporate stitched silicone skins, varied skin tones, and stylistic elements inspired by Los Angeles tattoo culture. Through practicing tattoo techniques and creating roughly seventy-two faux skin artworks, we seek to expand tattoo representation on campus and advocate for a tattooing club, class, or equipment at UCSB's makerspace. We want to foster a dialogue about identity, history and artistic legitimacy within UCSB's creative community.