Dozens of Savannahians from across the city are joining Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum to create Sea of Ink: Savannah Maritime Tattoos, opening September 19. The exhibit reveals the personal expressions of residents from all walks of life, as illustrated on their skin by a host of local tattoo artists. Sea of Ink opens with a celebration in the museum’s gardens at 6 p.m. on September 19. Partygoers will see their neighbors in a new light -- as master Savannah storytellers.

Savannah Inspired, Individually Expressed

Molly Carrott Taylor, the museum’s executive director, conceived of the exhibit while getting a haircut. “I see Sea of Ink as a stimulating, visual discovery of our Savannah community,” said Taylor. “My stylist, Corrie Sweat, showed me her beautifully detailed tattoo based on a19th century scrimshaw carving on a whale bone. I started thinking about who else in Savannah has maritime tattoos. The result is Sea of Ink, a contemporary story of maritime history as captured on Savannahians’ skin!”

Tania June Sammons curates Sea of Ink, framing the story of maritime tattooing in Savannah with photography as the primary medium. “Since Captain Cook first encountered Indigenous peoples in the Pacific Islands whose culture embraced tattooing, maritime tattoos have become a sailor’s rite of passage,” said Sammons. “With Sea of Ink, I’ve been able to explore tattooing with collectors from all sectors of Savannah society and the tattoo artists who help bring their visions to life. I’ve met weekend boaters and sailors, professionals in the maritime industry, marine scientists, members of the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy, and many landlubbers who are enchanted by the sea. I’ve been inspired by the skill and creativity of the artists, and I’ve been able to learn about a deeply meaningful, visual language.”

Sammons has called on two of Savannah’s prominent photographers, Thomas Sanders and Michael Schalk, to bring Sea of Ink to life. Sanders photographed tattoo collectors and Schalk photographed tattoo artists in their shops. “Tom’s and Mike’s unique take on photography shines through in their portraits of Savannahians,” said Sammons. “Tom creates drama by using scenes from the museum’s painting collection as settings for his subjects, and Mike beautifully captures the varied personalities of the artists who enliven our community.”

Dre Edwards, owner of Inklings Tattoo Company, is taking part in Sea of Ink. “Great art makes us feel, think, and converse; and tattoos are no different,” said Edwards. “I was the first certified Black tattoo artist in Savannah. Today, our clientele has diversified significantly. Many people come to us with personal stories, seeking an outlet to reclaim their identity or express themselves. Tattooing today is much broader than the old clichés of gangs and bikers. Sea of Ink recognizes the artistry and humanity in tattoos.”

Ruel Joyner, a prominent Savannah businessman who owns the 24e Design Company and was named the state of Georgia’s Retailer of the Year in 2016, displays his large octopus tattoo in Sea of Ink. “I grew up in Savannah and have always had the ocean in my blood,” said Joyner. “My tattoo is an art form, an expression, as much as any of the one-of-a-kind furniture pieces I design for 24e. I’m grateful to my tattoo artist, Ricky McGee from Anonymous Tattoo, for his time and vision in making my vision a reality. I’m excited to participate and I can’t wait to see which of my neighbors are also in the show!”

The Details

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum will display Sea of Ink: Savannah Maritime Tattoos from the opening party on September 19, 2024 through May 26, 2025.

The opening party on September 19 serves as one big party for two different events! Not only is it the opening for Sea of Ink, but it is also the kick-off event for Villain Arts’ 3rd annual Savannah Tattoo Arts Festival, taking place at the Savannah Convention Center. Ships of the Sea, Villain Arts, and South magazine are all co-hosting the party. Everything from fire throwers to music to tattoo contests and temporary tattoos will be offered at the party. Tickets only $10 at shipsofthesea.org

Ships of the Sea is presenting three related programming opportunities during the run of the show, called “Ships in the Dark.” October 11 is an academic panel with tattoo artists discussing the landscape, history, and culture of tattooing. Nov. 8 is a music-filled extravaganza, and December 13 will celebrate Sea of Ink and the holidays. Find more information below.

Ships of the Sea also is offering two Free Family Days in conjunction with Sea of Ink, on Sunday, November 17, 2024 and Sunday, May 4, 2025.

Opening Celebration on Thursday, September 19, 2024:

The party celebrates the opening of Sea of Ink & the kick-off of the Savannah Tattoo Arts Festival

Details: Tickets only $10 at shipsofthesea.org
Doors open 6 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, 41 MLK, Jr. Blvd – 1 block west of City Market

Be amazed by the Stardust Pixxies -- aerial artists and fire performers Get your temporary tattoos
Flaunt your tattoo at the tattoo contest
Signature Cocktails -- Food --- Fun!

Tarot card readings
Photo stations
Live DJ
Party with South magazine

Ships in the Dark
Tickets $10 and free to members/ cash bar with mixologist Ashley Simeone 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

October 11: Tattoo Artists’ Panel Discussion
Tattoo artist and designer Jimmy Butcher will host a discussion with fellow tattoo artists to debate the ever-changing landscape of tattooing, its history, and place in American culture today. Jimmy and his fellow artists will give attendees insight and new perspective on the artistry versus the craft of tattooing. This contemporary analysis of an ancient practice is not to be missed!

November 8: Sailors’ Songs in the Garden
A music-filled extravaganza headlined by Andrew Sovine, a musician, writer, and producer who has worked with grammy award-winning musician Ashley McBryde among others. A guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, Andrew and his band will be playing an array of music to include sea shanties (traditional work songs for sailors) along with his own original music.

December 13: Holiday Celebration of Sea of Ink
This event not only will celebrate Sea of Ink as a one-of-a-kind exhibit, but also rings in the holidays! People will leave with a gift bag, and sweet treats will be served. Guests can slip their hot toddys into a specially made Satchel Savannah koozie. And who knows, the Tattooed Santa might show up!