11 January 2021

Ink in the Lines : Tattoos in the Australian military

| Sharon Kelley
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Learn more about the history of tattoos within the Australian Defence Forces. Photo: Todd Dickson, Instagram

Tattoos are a conversation starter.

Many members and veterans of the Australian Defence Forces have tattoos, and while their reasons for getting tattooed are as varied as the people themselves, self-expression and belonging play a part.

They also share a common purpose in getting inked: to remember.

Inscribed on skin are their identities as veterans, the commemoration of loss, experiences of trauma and overcoming adversity, the bonds of family and friends, and acknowledging the experiences that make us who we are.

Learn more about the history of tattoos within the Australian Defence Forces. Podcasts, videos and articles available through our online exhibition.

The Ink in the Lines exhibition is on display from 25 September 2020 to 16 May 2021. A free Galleries and Commemorative Area ticket includes access to our special exhibitions.

The Details:

What: Ink in the Lines
When: Open until 16 May 2021, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily
Where: Australian War Memorial, Treloar Crescent, Campbell
Cost: Free, booking by timed ticketing online

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