Untitled 2-5-71 [study for "tattoo" book] 1971

Editor: We're looking at "Untitled 2-5-71," a pen and ink drawing by James McCracken Jr. made in 1971. It shows what seems like a series of sketches, a kind of study sheet maybe? There are disembodied feet, pointing hands, and then these skulls. It feels...darkly whimsical? What do you see in this piece? Curator: Darkly whimsical, I love that! It *does* feel like a collection of stray thoughts, doesn't it? Given the title's reference to a "tattoo book," I think these motifs could easily have served as tattoo flashes or references for larger pieces. See how the skulls are presented? A bit cheeky, but undeniably hinting at *memento mori*, that ancient acknowledgement of mortality. Editor: That's interesting, I didn't even notice the date! Do you think there's something particular about the period? Curator: Oh, definitely. The early 70s saw a real upswing in tattoo culture's visibility, particularly within counter-cultural movements. I wonder what kind of character this was intended for? Editor: Hmm... that’s a good question. How would you know? Curator: Well, looking at it, those simple, clean lines. That almost cartoony quality, contrasts dramatically with the subject matter itself, right? Those playful geometric elements juxtaposed with reminders of our earthly departure… It's almost as if the artist is having a visual joke, reminding us not to take *anything* too seriously. Perhaps there's also a sly comment on the transience of flesh versus the permanence of art… Even tattoo art. Editor: So the juxtaposition of symbols is like a meditation on mortality... and art. I never would have thought about the lasting legacy part of it all, particularly within tattoo culture. Curator: It's a compelling piece of visual poetry, isn’t it? These fragments open up so many avenues for interpretation. A little strange, a little bit irreverent, and completely of its time. Editor: Exactly.