Tattoos have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, serving as a form of expression and personal storytelling. Each tattoo carries its own unique story and meaning, whether it’s a small stick-n-poke or a big, elaborate piece full of detail. For some individuals, tattoos represent a permanent mark of something deeply significant in their lives, holding tremendous meaning and serving as a constant reminder of their experiences. For others, tattoos may simply be a form of self-expression or a decorative addition to their appearance. Regardless of the motivation behind getting a tattoo, every tattoo is a testament to the individual who wears it, representing their experiences, values, and identity.

TattooTalk is a poster installation and accompanying website highlighting various individual tattoo stories of the students at SUNY New Paltz. The poster installation was exhibited in the Sojourner Truth Library on campus for 2 weeks while the website exists as a digital archive of the entire project, allowing users to view the tattoo stories or submit their own. Through both print and digital means, users can build community through shared experiences and artistry.