Ink In The Lines Education Resource

Tattoos are a conversation starter.

Many members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force have tattoos, and while their reasons for getting tattooed are as varied as the people themselves, self-expression and belonging play a part.

They also share a common purpose in getting inked: to remember.

Inscribed on skin are their identities as veterans, the commemoration of loss, experiences of trauma and overcoming adversity, the bonds of family and friends, and acknowledging the experiences that make us who we are.

Recommended year level: This education resource is designed for Secondary and senior Secondary students. It can be used to support school visits to the exhibition Ink in the lines, but is also suitable as a stand-alone resource.

Activities have been designed to align with Australian Curriculum: Civics and Citizenship, History, Visual Arts, and English key learning areas. Students will discover multiple perspectives of service from the Australia’s veteran community, develop skills in empathy and critical thinking, and explore commemoration in Australia. Curriculum links include:

• The values of Australian citizenship, global obligations, and differing perspectives about national identity
• The commemoration of the First World War, including debates about the nature and significance of the Anzac legend
• Reasons for enlistment, the changing role of women, nature and impact of global conflict and events in the twentieth century
• Continuing efforts after the Second World War to achieve lasting peace and security in the world, including Australia’s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping operations
• How the visual arts convey meaning, exploring techniques and processes used by artists
• How a combination of textual and visual choices can present information, opinion and perspective
• The use of symbolism, icons, and myths in images, and how these augment meaning.

Note to the reader: This exhibition contains content that people may find distressing, including human suffering and death. Teachers may wish to be sensitive to those students who have personal experience with conflict, family members who are veterans, or parents serving in war zones.

The views and opinions expressed by veterans are their own, and contain strong language.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, tell a teacher or trusted adult. You can also contact:

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636