Research centre
Communication and Computing Research Centre

Date
2013-current

Research Degree Project

The objectives of this ethnographic research are to understand the functions and meanings of tattoos amongst the underground musicians and fans. I intend to use identity and social identity theory along with social and cultural dimensions theory, which specifically are related to art and communication perspectives, as my theoretical frameworks. In addition, I will use forms of discourse analysis to interpret the meanings of the tattoos within the scope of the text and the context.

My preliminary research indicates that tattoos and acts of tattooing amongst underground musician and fans are depictions of lives stories; personal and group identities; art, religiosity and syncretism expressions; decorations; and the spirit of resistance.

I am also interested in the way that some of the underground musicians and fans have used their body voluntarily for being the media of tattoo practice for their fellows who tried to become tattoo apprentices. I intend to explore this phenomenon of a 'social body,' in which body is used as a medium of social relations. I will also be examining the possibility that tattoo positions on the body also relate to the cultural values inherent in underground musician and fans social lives.

Project Supervisors

Dr Geff Green - Director of Study
Dr Kathy Doherty - Second Supervisor

Researchers involved

Constantius Tri Handoko - Research Degree Student