This document summarizes a study on women's experiences with tattooing as a form of gender resistance and expression of identity. The study involved interviews with 60 heavily tattooed women. Tattooing was once traditionally a male domain, but some women now use extensive tattoos to challenge gender norms regarding femininity and beauty. These women redefine beauty on their own terms rather than conforming to mainstream standards, which can help boost their self-esteem. However, their visible tattoos also invite stares, touching, and rude comments in public as well as some discrimination in employment and negative family reactions.

1. ‘ Covered’ Gender Resistance and Identity Narratives through Tattooing Beverly Yuen Thompson, Ph.D. Women’s Studies Program Texas Woman’s University [email_address] A documentary video project

2. Tattooing Once Was a Male Domain… (stereotypically considered prevalent in male subcultures such as military/sailors, prisons/gangs, outlaws/bikers, blue collar workers)

4. The ‘Chick Spot’ Tattoo: Women’s place in tattooing is gender normative: wives of tattooists and collectors of gender-appropriate tattoos (small, cute, hidden)

5. Methods: (n= 60) Feminist/ visual/ ethnographer

7. Tattooed Circus Ladies 1880s -1950s

11. Body Image

12. Rock ‘n Roll Moms: “You’re a mother now…”

13. Public Reactions: stares, touching, and rude comments.

15. Employment discrimination: legal and socially acceptable “ Covering” for work or school

16. “ I Wanna Be Covered…” True to self Conform to society