Body Art

Body Art, Tattoos, Piercings et Al

Across centuries and civilisations, humans have adorned, altered, and decorated their bodies to express identity, beauty, belief, and rebellion. Body Art by Owen Jones explores this timeless impulse through a fascinating lens — from ancient tattoos and tribal markings to modern trends like body painting, airbrush tanning, and cosmetic surgery. This compact but wide-ranging book delves into how we use the human body as a living canvas, revealing the psychological and cultural meanings behind our desire to modify and enhance ourselves.

You’ll discover stories behind eyebrow tattoos, white ink trends, and even barcode tattoos as statements of individuality. Learn about the symbolism of anchor tattoos, the continuing influence of Berber customs, and how jewellery and fashion – from gold earrings to push-up bikinis – affect self-perception and cultural belonging. With practical insights and engaging anecdotes, Body Art celebrates the creativity and courage of self-expression. Whether you’re a tattoo lover, beauty professional, or simply curious about the history and meaning of personal decoration, this book offers an enlightening and colourful journey into the art written on our skin.