Dive into Oregon’s colorful and surprising history of tattooing.
Before European American settlers arrived in Oregon, Indigenous communities had diverse tattoo practices, which were widely suppressed by the introduction of so-called “Indian boarding schools.”
This art form survived, however, and Indigenous artists in Oregon are revitalizing their ancient heritage.
In the 18th century, tattoos became popular among sailors, and Oregon’s own legendary artist Bert Grimm had an immeasurable impact on the craft.
Today, there are more artists in Oregon than ever, and artists continue to innovate new techniques and styles and honor traditions of the past.
Learn more https://www.opb.org/article/2026/08/19/oregon-tattoo-history-art-portland-bert-grimm-sea-tramp/
Chapters:
00:00 Oregon’s tattoo people
01:38 Indigenous tattoo history in Oregon
04:42 Modern cultural tattoos
06:38 Explanation of sailor tattoos
08:34 Oregon tattoo legend Bert Grimm, Don Deaton and Sea Tramp
12:18 Oregon’s tattoo regulations
14:03 Ending
For more stories like this visit OPB online at https://opb.org
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