Embrace Art: Get a Rembrandt Tattoo at the Historic Museum
A Modern Twist on a Master's Legacy
For a limited time, aficionados of both indelible body art and the Dutch Golden Age painter can secure an appointment for a tattoo inspired by Rembrandt's extensive catalog. This innovative program is currently underway at the iconic Rembrandt House Museum, situated within the artist's former residence along Amsterdam's picturesque canals.
The "Poor Man's Rembrandt Project" Returns
The museum is presently in the midst of its two-week "Poor Man's Rembrandt Project." This event is a collaborative effort with the esteemed 74-year-old Dutch tattoo artist, Henk Schiffmacher, and his studio. This marks a return for the successful partnership, as the Rembrandt House Museum previously hosted a similar event with Schiffmacher in 2023.
Final Opportunities for Artistic Ink
The current iteration of this unique event concludes on November 7th. As of the time of this publication, appointments remain available with Schiffmacher himself or with one of the six other talented tattoo artists who have established temporary studios within the museum's historic walls. Patrons can book sessions at prices ranging from 100 to 350 euros (approximately $110 to $390 USD). A diverse array of designs, meticulously selected from Rembrandt's drawings and etchings, are on offer for clients to choose from.
Diverse Designs Reflecting Rembrandt's Vision
The available tattoo designs encompass a broad spectrum of Rembrandt's work. Enthusiasts can opt for one of his instantly recognizable self-portraits, a palette motif adorned with Amsterdam's distinctive triple-X coat of arms, or a depiction of Hansken, the celebrated elephant that Rembrandt sketched during its tour of Amsterdam. Furthermore, a variety of other figure groupings and elaborate scenes from the artist's oeuvre are also available, ensuring a design to suit every preference.
The Grand Scale: "The Descent from the Cross"
A particularly ambitious aspect of this project involved Schiffmacher's search for an individual willing to have Rembrandt's monumental work, "The Descent from the Cross," tattooed across their entire back. The artist informed the New York Times that approximately 50 individuals expressed interest in this demanding piece. However, many candidates presented challenges such as scars or birthmarks that would compromise the intricate design. The ideal canvas was found in production designer Bo Kwakernaak, whom Schiffmacher described as "a completely clean, young man with a beautiful back." Schiffmacher and his team have been meticulously working on this complex post-Crucifixion scene over multiple sessions.
Beyond the Spectacle: A Deeper Connection to Art
The museum views this public tattooing event as far more than a mere publicity stunt. Epco Runia, the Head of Collections and Research at the Rembrandt House, perceives a profound connection between Rembrandt's printmaking – which constitutes a significant portion of the museum's permanent collection – and the art of tattooing. Both, he argues, serve as powerful mediums for the widespread dissemination of imagery. Runia shared with the Times his belief that Rembrandt would have felt a kinship with Henk Schiffmacher, remarking that "They have a little bit the same kind of character.