Topics

About this talk

Hanns Rudolf “Rudi” Inhelder (1929–2003) was a Swiss physicist in Cold War America and passionate tattoo collector. He built a vast archive and founded the Tattoo Club of America in 1960s New York, fostering global connections among tattoo artists and enthusiasts while discreetly linking gay men during a repressive era. Though short-lived, the club helped shape modern tattoo culture. The lecture celebrates Rudi’s work and creativity, highlighting queer resilience, unintended social change and the challenges of preserving subcultural histories and archives. A lecture by Matt Lodder This event is also available to watch live online. To register, visit: One Gay Man's Accidental Creation of the Modern Tattoo Industry | Gresham College Gresham College has offered free public lectures for over 400 years, thanks to the generosity of our supporters. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest minds. To support Gresham College's mission, please consider making a donation: Donate Today | Gresham College

→ More information & booking (opens in new tab)