Ink Revolution: Iran's underground tattoo culture emerges despite societal challenges

In the heart of Tehran, a burgeoning subculture is quietly challenging conservative norms as tattoo artists defy societal expectations.

Sean, a 34-year-old artist, has become a trailblazer, opening a studio to share the art of tattooing that has thrived underground in the Islamic republic.

With motifs meticulously etched onto silicon canvases, he aims to break the stigma associated with tattoos in a country where the practice is often linked with immorality and Westernization.

Despite the absence of an explicit ban on tattooing in Iran, conservatives view it with skepticism. Sean’s studio, operating for just eight months, stands as a testament to the evolving perception of body art in the country.

Over 30 eager students, fascinated by what Sean describes as a “bottomless art,” attend his academy, reflecting the changing dynamics within Iranian society.

Tattoos, once associated with rebellion, are gaining popularity among the youth who proudly display their ink in public.

This growing trend prompted Sean to expand his studios to cities like Kerman and the resort island of Kish, reflecting a broader acceptance of this form of self-expression.

However, challenges persist. Conservative viewpoints on tattoos linger, and there are instances of athletes being required to cover their tattoos to participate in sports events.

Some individuals still face stigmatization, with visible tattoos potentially leading to psychological examinations for obtaining a driver’s license.

Even with the increased acceptance, women with tattoos face heightened scrutiny, navigating a stringent dress code that mandates covering their heads and necks.

Some view their tattoos as acts of defiance, while others, like Sahar, a 26-year-old nurse, see them as a form of self-expression despite potential obstacles in the public sector job market.

The tattoo revolution in Iran is not just about art but challenges societal norms and perceptions. As more individuals, including women like Kuro, embrace tattooing, there is a hope that the art form will continue to flourish, breaking free from its underground roots and finding acceptance in mainstream Iranian culture.