In the past, tattoos were something associated with only prostitutes, sailors and hooligans. The art's reputation has evolved through the American consciousness from distasteful symbols of lower class people into a loose general social acceptance. Today, one out of every seven adults has at least one tattoo. Tattoos are now a prominent cultural statement in today’s society and can represent a person’s spiritual or recreational interest.
    The art of tattooing originated in eastern Asia and has been practiced for thousands of years. It was introduced to the United States in the 18th century by seafarers.
    The Independence Seaport Museum is paying tribute to these brave men who wore their hearts on their sleeves, literally. "Skin and Bones, Tattoos in the Life of the American Sailor," is a provocative exhibit that explores the beliefs, traditions, and power that tattoos held on American maritime culture. It will trace the origins and functions of tattoos in American sailors’ lives from the late 18th century and how modern day sailors have kept these customs alive.
    "Skin & Bones" will also feature prominent members of the tattoo world including Samuel O’Reilly, who invented the electric tattoo machine, department store Macy’s founder Rowland Macy, whose nautical star tattoo inspired the store’s famous logo, as well as Sailor Jerry and Sailor Eddie.
    The exhibit runs from April 24, 2009 to January 3, 2010. It will also be complimented by a compelling series of educational programming, including two screenings of the cult film Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry, which follows the life of Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins, the grandfather of Americana tattoos.
For more information on the exhibit and to order tickets, please visit http://www.phillyseaport.org/New_Exhibits-Tattoos-Skin_and_Bones.shtml.