Book review- The Tatooing Arts of Tribal Women by Lars Krutak

The title was what first attracted my attention, then flicking through the illustrations. This is an academic study by cultural anthropologist Lars Krutak. It is the result of  10 years  travelling the world researching indigenous tattoo practices. Here he documents the amazing women who have applied tattoos to the people of their tribes in traditions that stretch back thousands of years.  It looks at each tribes spiritual practices and how they believed tattooing affected every aspect of their life, focusing as much on the significance of the tattoo as much as the process.

The book is a celebration of these women who held positions of respect within their societies but it is also a sad reminder of how the influence of the West has caused damage to their vibrant cultures.

This is a great book for those seeking knowledge of the roots of ethnic tattooing or those looking for design inspiriation.

ISBN 9781898948759

Lars web site  www.larskrutak.com is well worth a visit, it has lots of well illustrated articles and links to keep you occupied for hours.

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