Get ‘Ink’d’ at the Penn Museum

Tattoos. Piercings. Body modification. No, it's not an experimental teenager, but a night at the Penn Museum (3260 South St.). As a part of their P.M. @ Penn Museum series, a once-a-month creative evening session, the museum will be exploring the history of tattoos and body modification on Wednesday, March 18.

Ancients Ink'd, running from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., will feature talks, tours, chances to get a henna tattoo, presentations, performances and more.

Throughout the evening, Julian Siggers, Penn Museum director, will discuss tattooing's ancient beginnings in various regions worldwide. These lectures are perfectly paired with specially designed gallery tours featuring ancient Mayans' tattoo and piercing aesthetics — oftentimes drawing on body sacrifices. Visitors will see photos, drawings and other artifacts from the museum's archives that highlight historical body modification.

Things get 21st century intense when Philly's own Olde City Sideshow will display their tricks and stunts — with tools like a blade box, bed of nails and swords.

In addition to henna tattoo artists providing elaborate South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African temporary designs, local tattoo shop representatives will make a showing, providing information for those ready for the real deal.

Tickets are $20 for nonmembers, $15 for members, and include a drink ticket

For more Things to Do, check out our calendar for the most up-to-date happenings.