BEHIND THE INK is a first-of-its-kind film put together by local Charlotte, NC students and creatives with the mission of exploring untold narratives of those who are inked. This documentary was produced and shot entirely by Creating Exposure Through The Arts [a 501c3 non-profit organization] students and instructors. The film shares stories behind the tattoos of various Charlotte and South Carolina residents, including NBA veteran Anthony Morrow and Tattoo Artist Crystana “Dutchess” Lattimore, while documenting the journey of a young lady from the Dominican Republic who gets her first tattoo in Charlotte NC.

Born out of a student-led photo exhibit launched over a decade ago...BEHIND THE INK emerged. This documentary explores tattoos, and what some may call “artistry and body art”. It covers the “whys” of personal canvases straight from the source, while also capturing the journey of a young lady who receives her first tattoo. There are men and women of all ages, different races, and socioeconomic backgrounds that reveal stories, ideas, joy, and pain behind their ink. From a suicide survivor, former professional athlete, to a tattoo “first-timer”, BEHIND THE INK gets up close and personal with individuals whose body art ranges from playful motifs to deep memorials for lost loved ones — all with a distinct purpose and meaning.

The photo exhibit features a diverse group of subjects from NC, SC and NYC. Our photographers will be on sight to capture more images of people with tattoos to add their images and stories to future project. All participants will be gifted with a free digital portrait from their photo session.

Event Details

Photo Exhibit: 11am - 9pm

Photo Studio Free Tattoo Portriats: 12noon - 7pm

Documentary Showtime: 7pm - 7:30pm

After Movie Talk w/ Cast & Crew: 7:30pm - 8pm. (Moderated by Tree McGriff/CineOdyssey Film Festival)