PRODUCTION PROCESS AND ETHICAL PRACTICES OF CONTEMPORARY TATTOOING AMONG TATTOO ARTISTS IN KUMASI AND ACCRA METROPOLISES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18533/1nwhxz69Keywords:
Contemporary Tattooing, Ethical practices, Tattoo artists, Tattoo CultureAbstract
Contemporary tattooing in Ghana is gaining popularity as a form of self-expression. However, research on the contemporary tattoo culture focuses primarily on its health implications, to the neglect of tattoo production processes and ethical practices. This study, therefore, seeks to explore the production processes and ethical practices of contemporary tattoos in Kumasi and Accra metropolitan areas. Using the ethnographic method under a qualitative approach, purposive and snowball sampling, data were collected from six (6) tattoo artists and their shops through face-to-face interviews alongside field observations. The study revealed that contemporary tattooing in Ghana goes through various major stages, such as: Tattoo consultation, artistic idea, tattooing procedure, and after-care. The findings further revealed that though tattoo artists and shops do not typically have a well-structured list of ethical considerations, there are unwritten considerations that are observed. The study recommends licensure and regulation of tattoo art and artists.
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