All our delegates can explore our exhibition galleries FREE of charge during a conference, meeting or event in Aspects at the National Memorial Arboretum.
13 September 2019 - 1 December 2019
Tattoos are a major part of the Armed Forces and are full of meaning, symbolism and significance.
Inked onto the skin of serving personnel, they are a symbol of belonging, a personal act of remembrance and an illustration of significant rites of passage and operational tours. They act as a permanent badge of the wearer’s experiences, triumphs and losses, and commemorate those who have sacrificed for their country. Those who serve in the Armed Forces belong to tribes who live together, work together and fight together.
For thousands of years, tribes have worn tattoos as a sign of belonging, and from Roman legionnaires to Nelsonian soldiers, body art has been an act of commemoration. This tradition is continued today, and tattoos feature within all tribes in the Armed Forces.
Featuring photography portraits by acclaimed photographer Charlie Clift, first-hand testimonies and interactive discovery, Tribute Ink will explore how tattoo art has become an important part of the Armed Forces community, and will tell some of the fascinating stories hidden in military tattoos.
Exhibition created in partnership with The Royal British Legion.