I’ve got you under my skin: Tattoos and religion in three Latin American cities

Abstract

In this article, the author argues that some contemporary tattoos might be considered ‘sacralization practices’, that is, processes whereby the subjects distinguish some reality they deem special from the rest. The author studied Latin Americans’ tattoos in a context of mainstream life, while paying attention to designs, meanings, and the interaction of tattoos with religious membership. Based on a non-random sample of 21 subjects from three different cities, socio-economic statuses, gender, and religious affiliation, this article explores what realities are sacralized by urban Latin Americans in contexts of daily life by getting them under their skin. The findings show that tattoos are a preferred way for Non-Affiliated persons to express their inner realm, that tattoos sacralize some experiences that are different from the profane giving them permanence, and finally that tattoos even when they are very personal and intimate, involve a connection with a community.