Eiteljorg brings together ten voices in Indigenous tattooing for a new exhibition

An exhibition that asks us to look beyond the design

What changes when we listen to the person wearing a tattoo and the person making it, as well as looking at the image? The Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis has announced an exhibition curated by Monica Raphael about the continuity and revitalisation of Indigenous tattoo practices. Its announcement was published on 26 October.

The dates and the exhibition

re-MARK-able Perseverance: Tattoos runs from 14 November 2026 to 21 February 2027. It brings together historical objects, photography and contemporary artwork, with access included in regular museum admission. Its approach highlights differences between communities alongside stories of transmission and renewal.

Start with the artists’ names

Announced participants include Corey Bulpitt (Haida), Caitlin Newago (Bad River Ojibwe) and Sarah Ayaqi Whalen-Lunn (Iñupiaq). Ten artists are featured. Their own voices and the contexts in which they present their work are a useful starting point for exploring it.

Why this matters when you are starting out

Our suggestion is to let this news change your first question. Before asking “How could I draw that motif?”, try “Who is telling this story, and what do they want to explain about it?”.

As you explore the museum’s gallery, note the artist’s name alongside whatever catches your attention. Separate what the source actually says from your interpretation. That small habit helps avoid treating an isolated image as an explanation of an entire culture, and gives your next search a more thoughtful direction.

A starting point for readers at home

You do not have to travel to begin exploring: the exhibition page provides a gallery and a list of participants. Take your time with one work, identify its maker and look for how they describe their practice. The next reference you save can come with something more useful than a broad stylistic label.