Tattooing

 

While growing up I'd say my parents would not approve the idea of tattooing. They never once portrayed raising a daughter that wants tattoos in future. I have to say I never pictured myself with tattoos either until I turned (ahems) older.  I was raised under a strict baptist roof, tattooing and piercings is not allowed until I turned 18 however it was not highly promoted. I am an artistic person and I have always enjoyed many mediums and skin happen to be one of the mediums I found myself fascinated with.

The tattooing society has been 'under the rug' in the past until now. There came LA Ink, Miami Ink, and NY Ink- it was no longer a 'underground' thing. Talking about the power of media, actually. I'm glad that this is now happening- because if not for that, my parents would not approve of the pieces I have. I got my third piece with Kim Saigh, which took me about 6 months of booking process/waiting time! If it wasn't for LA Ink- I wouldn't have discovered Kim's amazing talent. So, in a way I appreciate The Learning Channel for opening my eyes.

However, talking about how tattooing is now portrayed on television- I had a friend working as a piercing artist at my local shop. She explained that most of tattoo customers comes in for the piece and once the artist begin the tattooing process, the customer would start rambling their reason behind the piece. It isn't how things work- the tattooer just tattoo you, they're not your personal therapists. But if your artist ask you- its up to you to share your reasoning behind the piece. The common misunderstanding could be underpinned by watching TLC's LA, Miami, and NY Ink. Usually before getting tattooed- the customer will describe the piece to artist. Then during the process of tattooing, the artist will ask question about the piece. It is for the sake of the show, for us to understand the meaning of tattoo. But it is not how things usually work at shops. And not every piece has to be meaningful for everyone, some get it because they just wanted to- some get it because it means something.

Here are few links that explores the tattooing industry and how shops does business
(Rella's FAQ is by far my most favorite!)

Sometimes Sweet's Tattoo Tuesdays
Rella's Tattoo FAQ & Tips
Examining Portfolios: How to pick your artist


You can learn more about my experience with Kim Saigh here otherwise, if you're getting tattooed sometimes soon- happy tattooing! **Yeah, they do hurt- think your piece as a badge of honor for enduring the pain!