An exhibition which was set up and ready to open when lockdown arrived has opened online.

Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed had been due to open at the Historic Dockyard Chatham just days before government restrictions meant the attraction was forced to close its doors to visitors.

Curators Dr Matt Lodder and Derryth Ridge and the team had been busy setting up the exhibition, which offers a groundbreaking insight into the history of British tattooing with more than 400 original artworks, photographs and historic artefacts, and it has sat, waiting to be seen, for the past six weeks.

Now managers at the dockyard have opened it virtually, so visitors can still see what is behind its doors.

It tells a story that challenges the most deeply-held myths and pre-conceptions about tattooing.

Among the tattooists featured is Jessie Knight, the first prominent female tattoo artist in Britain and daughter of tattoo artist and circus perform ‘Sailor’ Charlie Knight.

A spokesman for the dockyard said: "Despite the exhibition being fully installed, it's unlikely we are going to have the opportunity to open the doors. Our spring/summer smash hit show that no one will get to see.

"Whilst there is obviously no substitute for physically visiting the exhibition and seeing it through your own eyes, we will aim, over the next few weeks, to give audiences a virtual snap shot of the show and shine a spotlight on some of the fascinating artists and objects that are involved.

"We’ll also delve a bit deeper into the stories relating to Chatham. Each week we'll share excerpts of the exhibition via an 'A – Z of Tattoo'."

Launched as part of the #MuseumFromHome, Museums in Quarantine, campaign, you can see the online content here.

To see museums around the world virtually click here.

Turner Contemporary in Margate launches online exhibition tour.

For more things to see and do during lockdown click here.