The project investigates the ancient tattoo culture of the Philippines: Batok (hand tapped technique). It aims to portray the lives of the Filipino Headhunters and how they implement tattoos in their tribal community. As a Filipino who grew up here in Ireland and has been partly influenced by Irish culture, I took this opportunity to reconnect with my culture and learn its historical roots. Through my research I discovered that this particular tattoo technique was near extinction. I also discovered that many Filipinos are trying to revive it, including Whang Od, one of the last tattoo artists of her generation from the Kalinga Tribe.
My final project comprises a series of custom typefaces that imitate the tattoos; a publication that talks about ancient to modern tattoos; and moving posters that showcase quotes from Whang Od and her family. I have used a typographic response to aid and preserve the tattoo culture. My aim is to relay historical information to the new generation through typography.
Introduction of Pintados Typeface
Pintados Typeface higher and lower case alphabetical order
Pintados Typeface numbers and signs
"I'll quit when my vision gets blurry moving" poster - Photo credits to Lane Wilcken
Introduction of Las Islas De los Pintados publication
Spreadsheet 4 from publication: Quote about the tribe - Credits to Fearless & Far youtube
Spreadsheet 1 from publication: Talks about tools used to prepare for the tattoo - Credits to Lane Wilcken
Spreadsheet 2 from publication: Talks about Whang Od and her tattoos - Credits to Lane Wilcken and DW Documentary
Spreadsheet 3 from publication: An example of modern tattoo based on Baybayin, an ancient Filipino script writing - Credits to Lane Wilcken
"I'm happy that someone is continuing this" moving poster