'stories Inked In Skin' Museum Exhibit: Grand Opening Reception

- The Bastrop Museum & Visitor Center presents the grand opening of its newest exhibit, Stories Inked in Skin, Friday, July 12, 2024. The compelling exhibition delves into the ancient art of tattooing, exploring how it expresses personal resilience, celebrates local artistic talent, and reflects the deep well of community spirit and participation within Bastrop County. The museum exhibit is located at 904 Main Street and is free and open to the public through October 26th. Strength Rising from Ashes: Kyra Kradjel's Story Among the two dozen tattoos exhibited is the story of Kyra Kradjel, a Bastrop resident who tragically lost her home in the devastating 2011 Bastrop Complex Fire. With only the clothes on her back, her pets, and her beloved parrot, Foley, by her side, Kradjel escaped and rebuilt her life from the ashes. Her experience is immortalized in a vivid tattoo that embodies the message of community help and resilience. “I got the tattoo to show how Bastrop’s community rose up and came together to help each other and made beauty from ashes,” Kradjel explains. From Inspiration to Aspiration: Ruby Brewster's Artistic Journey The exhibit also shines a light on the burgeoning artistic talent within Bastrop County. Eleven-year-old Ruby Brewster, inspired by her mother Tricia, who works in a local tattoo shop, has captivated the community with her freehand tattoo art. Her intricate designs have garnered praise from professional tattoo artists, showcasing the raw talent and artistic spirit that thrives in Bastrop. Visitors will be able to see Ruby's artwork on display, along with other powerful tattoo art designs created by a diverse community of local artists. A Celebration of Ink: Opening Reception The Bastrop Museum invites the public to a special opening reception for Stories Inked in Skin, Friday, July 12th, at 5:30 PM. This free, public event offers an evening of fun and community [hidden]: Local tattoo artists from Howdy Y'all Tattoo and Remember Me Tattoos showcase their artistry and the technical skills involved in tattoo art.Meet the storytellers: Several residents featured in the exhibit share the personal stories behind their tattoos, offering a glimpse into the meaning they hold.Interactive displays: Dive into the ancient history and cultural significance of tattoo artLight Refreshments are served. “Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the stories etched onto the skin of your neighbors, this exhibit promises a captivating and thought-provoking experience,” says Heather Bloom, the exhibit’s curator and museum collections manager. The exhibit and opening reception are free and open to the public. The Bastrop Museum & Visitor Center is located at 904 Main St., Bastrop, TX. The Bastrop County Historical Society (BCHS), a non-profit organization founded in 1952, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Bastrop and Bastrop County through its museum, funded by the City of Bastrop, memberships, sponsorships, and the operation of the Bastrop Visitor Center. Photo cutline: Bastrop County resident, Kyra Kradjel, shows the tattoo she received after surviving the 2011 Bastrop Complex Fire. Stories Inked in Skin exhibit opens Friday, July 12, 5:30pm Photo credit: Bastrop County Historical Society More Info below.