Examining Tattooing as a Form of Identity Expression and Interaction Process – Atatürk Tattooing Case

Abstract

Today, tattoos are used as a medium for reflecting individual opinions
and ideas. Tattooing is perceived as a practice that differentiates
individuals and demonstrates an identity or group affiliation. The
main aim of this study is to understand the practice of tattooing
Atat ̧rk symbolisms in modern Turkey. The practice demonstrates
and communicates the important ideology of Kemalism. Atat ̧rk
tattoos (signatures, portraits etc.) are a legitimate way of social and
political identity expression. In other words, a symbolic reflection
of the Kemalist or secular identity.
To better understand the relationship between meaning and
interaction as it relates to Atat ̧rk tattoos, twenty in-depth interviews
were conducted with people in I
.
stanbul. The focus of the study is to
examine what impact having an Atat ̧rk tattoo has on the individualsí
experiences. Therefore, the main questions are focused on the process
of acquiring, owning, and exhibiting of an Atat ̧rk tattoo in a social
milieu. The majority of interviewees were influenced about getting
an Atat ̧rk tattoo until it was brought to their attention by people
close to them, or societies they are part of. Even though interviewees
have stated that they do not care about other peopleís opinions,
they especially have a tendency to conceal their tattoo in their
business life and this practice indicates that the Atat ̧rk tattoo bearer
may be considered to possess a potentially discrediting or stigma-
tizing attribute.