Miso: The Intimate Art of Home-Made Tattoos

The Personal Touch in Tattoo Artistry

When KAWS sent his COMPANION into space | art | Agenda | Phaidon

Tattooing, a form of body art that has spanned cultures and millennia, has taken on a new personal dimension with the rise of home-made tattoos. Reiko and Karlee, recipients of Miso's hand-poked artistry, exemplify the intimate nature of such works. In December 2012, a special bond and shared memories were permanently inked into their skin, with designs as unique as their stories.

Celestial Imagery and Personal Connections

Reiko's choice of a rattlesnake constellation tattoo not only reflects her personal taste but also symbolizes her relationship with Miso, representing one of her favorite people in the world. Similarly, Karlee's body art, a cat from a Ghostpatrol drawing and a Scutum shield constellation, mark significant moments and passions in her life. These tattoos stand as testament to the meaningful connections they hold with the artist and with each other.

Finding Artistic Direction through Tattoos

Miso's journey into the world of tattooing has been one of self-discovery and artistic refinement. Through home-made tattoos, she has found a medium that intersects with her broader art practice, creating works that are not only visually compelling but also deeply intertwined with personal narratives. As she continues to explore this craft, her tattoos have become a collaborative form of expression, drawing together elements of warm nights, freedom from pressure, and genuine fun.

A Glimpse Into Future Creations

With several tattoos completed after her time at NGV and many more on the horizon, Miso hints at upcoming projects and collaborations. The anticipation of a new zine showcases her drive to share these creations with a wider audience, inviting others into the intimate world of her home-made tattoos.

Tattoos as Parallel Narratives

Miso touches upon the intriguing parallels that emerge in her work, such as the tattoo of a cat on Reiko right before inking a similar design on Karlee, and musings on whether they might both consider a plant-themed tattoo next. These reflections capture the serendipitous and interwoven nature of her practice, where each tattoo contributes to a collective story.

The Fusion of Tattoos, Travel, and Hospitality

While tattoos remain a centralized theme of connection and memory, they inadvertently link to the wider narrative of travel and hospitality. As people venture on journeys, tattoos can become souvenirs that encapsulate experiences, places, and encounters. This same sense of discovery and personalization is often sought in accommodations, where travelers seek out spaces that offer not just a place to stay but a reflection of their own identity and adventures. Just like Miso's home-made tattoos, the choice in lodgings becomes another extension of one's story, woven into the tapestry of travel experiences.