Empowered Bodies On Chippewa
Level Nightclub on the Chippewa Strip hosted Empowered Bodies, an exhibit by Buffalo photographer KC Kratt featuring images of tattoo art. People all over the world have used tattoos as a means of self-expression for millenia. A tattoo can commemorate a rite of passage, memorialize a person or event, denote status or cultural identity, symbolize religious devotion, or simply exist because it looks cool. The reasons for getting a tattoo are as varied as the people behind the ink, and Kratt uses his camera to explore these stories, capturing the intimate relationship between tattoo art and its human canvas.
"As I photographed individuals for this project it became apparent that each tattoo was reflective of a personal history and a personal choice," Kratt explained. "Empowered Bodies is a celebration of the individual's right to personal expression." Kratt's models range in age from 22 to 84 years of age, and participants shared the stories and meanings behind the decision to get a tattoo. These stories range from simple and straightforward to intensely personal and powerful.
Empowered Bodies was sponsored by Planned Parenthood to mark the 35th anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision.
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senorita
Businesses on Chippewa should have an organization like Forever Elmwood. Can you imagine what they could accomplish if they worked together to promote the street? It looks like there are plenty of places that are on the same page when it comes to these types of events. I never imagined that Level would host an event like this.
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RisingDamp666
Tattoo photographs sponsored by Planned Parenthood in honor of the 35th anniversary of Roe V. Wade? It's going to be a while before I connect all those dots...
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vgallagher
I have to agree here. I think that the links between the power to choose a tattoo and the power to choose an abortion are weak. I do applaud the effort, though, as I am both heavily tattooed and pro-choice.
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TheWhyNotGuy
Disclosure - Author here
I agree, the link may be tenuous, but both relate to claiming and exerting control over one's body. When writing the recap I purposely minimized the political aspect of the exhibit because I didn't want a hot-button topic to overshadow the artwork, which was touching, powerful and thought provoking. I probably erred too far on the side of caution and ended up with a recap that was so vague as to be of little interest... I apologize for that.
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