There is no denying that now there is a negative label when it comes to having tattoos. You're seen as being a deliquent, having no ambition, being trashy or criminal, and my favorite questions- why would you damage your body like that? You know thats never coming off right?
Well with technology and a shit load of cash tattoos can be removed with laser or covered up with another piece of work, naysayers.
Tattoos though are very important to identity and expression of self. They tell a story, most importantly, they tell your story. In ancient times, they held the same meaning, they told stories of rank, accomplishment, and overcomed obstacles. For ladies, the danger zone to me, was the chest. I've seen that cliche song title or property of such and such. Let me hold there and say never get a tattoo saying you are property of anyone else! You are property of you and you alone always! But yes, I've always rolled my eyes at the chest piece till given more hope when I saw Coralia Suicide's chest piece. If you havent seen it, then asshole you're on the SG site take a look! But it's this really majestic phoenix to signify freedom and independence from obstacles she faced in her life.
That's what it means to have a true piece of art that tells a beautiful story. People shouldnt be so closed minded about tattoos because their meaning has not changed from what it was thousands of years ago, its just expanded more with various styles and is not only subjected to royalty and ranking officers but for anyone. That also comes with responsibility to give our community a better light.
For me personally, it takes forever to figure out my next piece, cause I want something no one else has and I want it's message to be clear and concrete. We do need to excercise our intellects when getting pieces done, another sad stereotype is that getting tattoos is cool, i'm gonna get laid brah, and other dumbass shit. Take the time, think about it, you are gonna be engraving yourself in the minds of the world for eternity with your pieces. What do you want your story to be about? What do you want to tell the world about yourself? How do you want to signify you?
If we think about these things then maybe our community will get the respect it deserves rather than bullshit stereotypes from close minded people. Maybe just maybe we can learn to accept each other and appreciate eachother's stories and body art. May be awhile but it is what we deserve. Till then drink whiskey and get tatted...our bodys are our canvas!