“What looking at tattooing using the tools of art history also does is reveal the story of tattooists, who are often entirely absent from academic writing on tattooing.” Matt goes on to say. “It helps us understand how tattooing relates from the visual cultures from which it emerges. It seems very straightforward to me that 19th century tattooing is full of influences from Japanese art, decorative arts, and French painting, but it's not something the standard accounts ever really noticed, let alone analysed.”
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Fortunately, the Kingston Museum is bringing Sutherland’s story to life as both art and history, and it is finally gaining acknowledgement by locals and tattooing professionals.
Viktor Nagy has been a full time tattoo artist for seventeen years and the ‘Ink in Kingston’ exhibition opened his eyes to the work of Macdonald.
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“It’s a great thing to see museums showing an interest in tattooing and the culture behind it. Among other artists I contributed to the exhibition myself, and I support the idea of educating all generations and even other artists about the history of this trade.”
It is clear that the tattooing history of our town goes beyond what we would expect, and fortunately lecturers, historians and museums are shedding more and more light on these stories. It’s practice will continue on and more incredible artists and practitioners will emerge. If we promote the history of this invaluable practice, we could see less dolphin-adorned wrists in the near future, and perhaps a meaning behind the marks.
“Of course tattooing now is radically different from 130 years ago, though much remains the same,” Says Matt. “There is no clear breakpoint
from then to now, no point when tattooing disappeared or re-emerged, really. It's a constant general growth, with some fluctuations and changing tastes over the century.”
Check out the Kingston Museum for the ‘Ink in Kingston’ exhibition, where Matt will be giving a lecture on Macdonald’s work. (13th April, 7-8pm)
Twitter Links
Follow Dr Matt Lodder on Twitter @MattLodder, and Kingston Museum @KingstonMuseum
 Macdonald's Family Graves at Surbiton Cemetery. |
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 You can pay your respects at the Surbiton Cemetery. |
 An example of Sutherland's artistry. |