RE: Ink'd

"Don’t get it because it’s cute. Don’t get it because you just want one. But get it, because it actually means something to you, motivates you, or defines you."

     I liked the topic of this post by Kristen about getting tattoos, especially for that last sentence. Tattoos have existed from ancient times, carried on the bodies of everyone from sailors to circus folk and spies to criminals. For a long time, they have played an important role in historic rituals and cultural tradition. However in recent decades, it has emerged to the forefront of popular consciousness, evolving to become typical on the average citizen. They even have tattoo cosmetic make up for eyebrows, lips, blush, etc. Everywhere you go, you see teens to grandmother's inked up, it has become a trend that can help one define one self but also be subjected to submission into cultural conformism. I respect the art of tattooing and it's history, but honestly some people are just ridiculous with it.

     It's a little short-sighted when people expeditiously commit themselves to a tattoo that's simply irrelevant. Your necklace may break, the fau tree may burst, but my tattooing is indestructible. It is an everlasting gem that you will take into your grave. -Verse from a traditional tattoo artist's song. Tattoos are markings that will last forever or involve a pricey and painful process for removal. Don't get a fucking Hello Kitty cause it's "cute". That is NOT cute. Wouldn't it be much more self-rewarding to get a tattoo that symbolized something or actually conveys depth to it's expression other than it's cute? Getting tatt'ed at a young age might look wet or make you look like a bad bitch now, but don't regret it later when it impairs your chances at a job opportunity or when you get fat/prego and that shit stretches with your belly. Well hey, it's your body. Who am I to dictate what you can do, lol.

     Either way, tattoos are making a strong comeback and has been more accepted than it has ever been. Artists combine the tradition of tattooing with their personal style creating unique and phenomenal body art. I do plan on marking myself someday, but until I'm sure of what I want, I'll stick to sharpies and non-permenate stick ons.