Marking the Movement: The Rise of Political Tattoos for Palestine

By Camila Muiambo

Tattoo artists across the globe are channelling their skills into activism, raising funds for Palestine through flash sheets and custom designs. This grassroots effort capitalises on people’s desire for tattoos, offering meaningful art while directing proceeds to aid efforts in Gaza.

My tattoo for Palestine by Millie Stimpson

With the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel leading to devastating loss of life—over 14,532 reported deaths in Gaza and more than 1,200 casualties in Israel caused by Hamas attacks as of late November—there is an urgent need for donations to support those affected. Artists in the tattoo community are stepping in with creative solutions.

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Ink as Advocacy

Sym Kang, 24, a tattoo artist and policy and diversity advocate known as @theflavouroftears, has taken to designing flash sheets specifically for this cause. Kang believes tattooing is uniquely effective in spreading awareness.

“Every time someone sees that tattoo, it sparks a conversation about its meaning,” Kang explains. “It’s a permanent mark of history and solidarity.” Kang’s designs include minimalist yet powerful imagery such as crescent moons, olive branches, and geometric patterns representing resilience and unity.

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From Flash Sheets to Fundraising

Collaborative efforts have emerged within the tattoo community, with some studios dedicating entire days to fundraising. Four artists—@mel.moulash, @asswhuppininaparkinglot, @emzino8, and @eternal_____________—hosted a flash day, raising $3,211 for Palestinian Medical Assistance. Their combined social media reach of over 125,000 followers amplified their efforts. Others have organized raffles or created ongoing flash sheets tied to the cause.

For Millie Stimpson, 23, known as @tatt_oops, her first Palestine-inspired flash sheet generated an overwhelmingly positive response. “It was my most engaged-with post. All the slots booked up, and so many people shared it on their stories,” Stimpson says. Starting her tattooing career officially in September, she has already donated £290 and plans to do more.

Stimpson and Kang both chose a sustainable approach, donating 50% of the proceeds to charities while retaining the rest to support their livelihoods. So far, Kang has contributed £550 to the cause. “I wanted to make sure the funds can be progressively rolled on while everything is still ongoing,” Kang says, highlighting the importance of sustained support.

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Kang reflects: “We often struggle to part with money unless we’re benefiting from it in some capacity. Tattoos make it easier to donate because they give something tangible in return.”

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Navigating Risks in Political Art

Despite the enthusiasm, not everyone in the tattoo community feels confident participating. One tattoo artist, who wishes to remain anonymous, notes that some artists hesitate to engage due to fears of being shadow-banned on social media for expressing political views.

With platforms like Instagram crucial for visibility and income, the risk of reduced engagement is a genuine concern. However, Stimpson remains unfazed: “If anyone really had a problem with it, they aren’t the kind of person I’d like to tattoo anyway,” she says.

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Leaving a Lasting Mark

As Stimpson plans another week of flash designs, artists like her and Kang continue using their craft to keep conversations—and donations—flowing. Their efforts prove that activism can leave a permanent mark, one inked onto the skin and etched into the stories we share.