Are tattoos art or defacement of the human body, which is, in itself, a work of art?

Answer 1

What would it be called if I drew a picture on the Mona Lisa. Of course tattoos are defacement. It is also my experience that most people, men at least, that have tattoos, have a follower mentality.

Answer 2

I think a great many people would consider them simply a defacement of the human body, without any consideration of art entering into it!

My own personal view is different. I was going to say, 'they're art', but actually I think it's more complicated than that. I think it depends on the individual person/tattoo. What I mean is, lots of people have fabulous tattoos that they've thought through, planned, and really enjoy having on their bodies; these are art.

Other people wander into a tattoo studio, point at a piece of flash art on the wall, and say 'yeah, I'll have that', without putting any thought into it. About those, I can't say the same. They may be very well executed, technically really good tattoos, but I still think they're missing the something that makes them art.

So, I can't describe all tattoos, lumped together, as one or the other.

I hope this makes sense!

Answer 3

Both. Some tattoos are simply marks or doodles on skin. Other tattoos can be works of art rivalling many gallery pieces.

I don't have any tattoos as I don't want to deface my body. I have the body of a God; Buddah.

Answer 4

I love tattoos and I have 4. I think of them as body art.

Answer 5

Defacement and no explanations suffice
Final Answer

Answer 6

Tattoos are personal self-expression. They're not for everyone, but I think if you want a tattoo and have taken the time to carefully consider it, go for it!

Answer 7

tattoos are art.but i see implants,tattoos,circumcision,piercings,implants,and all body modifications ugly.

Answer 8

Junk and trash.