Tatuando os tatuadores: como o uso do Instagram altera o trabalho dos tatuadores profissionais

Abstract

This research is a neo-materialist biased social study investigating whether the use of digital platforms produces alterations of work relations and practices, focusing on social media use by independent professional tattoo artists. The chosen platform was Instagram. The research is based on a neo- materialist methodology in communication social studies. It describes Instagram’s tools, resources, materiality and algorithmic performativity and analyses how the platform’s use by tattoo artists affects their work practice. For such, an auto ethnography and a survey with 590 participants were realized. As concluded, it states the use of the platform produces dependence and modifications on the workers' social profile, workspace, activities and procedures, as well as on the unpaid work hours and may transform tattoo artists in influencers and products. This research can be used in other social studies regarding digital platforms’ impact through social media use by independent workers.