The Illustrated Lady
Tattoos in this collection serve multiple functions, such as identifying someone, signifying group membership, and even predicting future events. The Illustrated Man, covered in numerous tattoos, uses them as part of his identity. The story explores various aspects of women’s bodies and addresses the risks of body modification.
Julia Gnuse
Julia Gnuse, known as The Illustrated Lady, held the Guinness record for having the highest concentration of Tattoos on female skin. She started getting Tattoos to cover up scars caused by porphyria. Unfortunately, she passed away during the process of removing her tattoos.
The Tattooed Man
This play portrays a survivor of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp known as Tattooed Man. He recalls memories from their time spent in the center and prisoners’ choices. The Tattooed Man could bring his Tattoos back to life by concentrating on them. Various versions of him have appeared in different media.
The Tattooed Woman
During a time when female independence was not taken for granted, tattooed women became famous circus and carnival attractions. They defied societal expectations of obedience, modesty, and chastity. The article discusses the manufactured backstories used to appeal to public sympathy and features photos and anecdotes from women who continue to practice tattooing today.
