Tattoo in Groningen

Forum Groningen presents the exhibition TATTOO, in collaboration with the Musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac and Henk Schiffmacher. Tattoos have become an integral part of the street scene. More and more people are having their skin adorned with ink, but where does this fascination come from? What do these ink drawings tell us about ourselves? The international exhibition TATTOO, exploring the development of tattoos into a global art form, is on view at the Forum. Last chance until January 4, 2026, at Forum, Groningen (location behind the Grote Markt). Ranked among the Top 10 exhibitions of 2025. A must-see for anyone who is a fan of the history of tattooing.

Tattoo in Groningen

Through January 4, 2026, you can enter the extraordinary world of Tattoo, where ink isn't just applied to the skin—it tells stories about who we are, where we come from, and sometimes… who we would like to be. Explore the rich history of tattoos through the eyes of the legendary Henk Schiffmacher, the man who revolutionized the tattoo world and turned it into an art form.

During the Tattoo expo, Henk himself will share his legendary stories with visitors. One of the many fascinating moments? The time Henk tattooed none other than Johnny Depp in 1990! At that time, Depp was already known for his roles in films such as *21 Jump Street*. Henk, a big fan, thought: “Why not?” He went to Johnny’s hotel, introduced himself, and before he knew it, Depp was sitting in the chair for a Henk special. The result? A subtle, meaningful tattoo that Depp wears proudly today. “He didn’t even ask if I had the right pen with me,” says Henk with a smile. “He just trusted me.”

Another memorable story is when Henk started his own tattoo exhibitions. In the early 90s, tattoos were not yet the cultural phenomenon they are today. During his first exhibition, a client appeared with a large tattoo of a naked woman on his lower back—something Henk had done years earlier. The client was not happy and demanded a “reworking” of the design in a more “fitting” style. Henk, who was not one to shy away from a challenge, replied: “Well, you have a work of art on your body. You can’t just put a new dress on the Mona Lisa, can you?”

The Tattoo Exhibition offers an unforgettable journey through the history of tattoos. This exhibition explores not only ancient traditions but also the modern, bold designs that have shaped the tattoo world of today. The exhibition presents tattooing as a cultural phenomenon, an artistic expression, and a symbol of personal identity. Through rare artifacts, photographs, film footage, and unique artworks, you will discover how tattoos are used worldwide—both historically and in contemporary society. From ritual tattooing in Samoa to the modern designs of today, you will see it all. If that is not enough, you will also have the chance to admire lifelike silicone models tattooed by some of the most renowned tattoo artists in the world—such as Filip Leu, Leo Zulueta, and Horiyoshi III. These masterpieces are a true testament to the art of tattooing.

 

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Tattoo at Forum Groningen, through January 4, 2026: https://forum.nl/nl/agenda/tattoo Previous museum blogs: https://www.postzegelblog.nl/tag/made-in-holland/