'Oh you have a tattoo. I'll let myself out. Have a nice life and I hope it doesn't turn all hideous and blotchy when you get older. But nothing you can do about that is there? Still, chin up. Oh no, there's one there too. Taxi!'
David Beckham's tattoos make him look like a lunatic who should be carrying a sandwich board down Oxford Street and Amy Winehouse's like a visually illiterate child's transfer collection - though I acknowledge that is the least of her problems. But for me, to be honest, even the slightest hint of a tattoo turns the whole person into an untouchable. And then there's the growing old problem. Tattoos age worse than Britney Spears - and, yep, she's got them too - and start to look like a serious, infectious disease at some point in the thirties. So the ponder is: tattoos, why?
A blog about, among other things, imaginary ideas - What ifs? and Imagine thats. What if photographs looked nothing like what we see with our eyes? Imagine that the Berlin Wall had never come down. What if we were the punchline of an interminable joke? All contributions welcome.
I don't get the slogans. I mean, what are the insides of their homes like? do they spray graffiti tags on the walls instead of hanging a nice Vettriano over the fireplace? (I expect they belong to that group of sociopaths who go overboard on faerie lights at christmas).
ReplyDelete'know your rights' - I mean, I simply don't know how I'm supposed to react to it. we don't do tattoos down our way.
Dennis Rodman once advised me to have a tattoo of the Union Flag. He said the rolls of fat would make a nice waving effect. However, I ignored him and went for the spider's web up my neck. The chicks love it.
ReplyDeleteOh well, I suppose tattoos are a statement of identity and belonging. Once they were confined to certain social groups - matelots and crooks, e.g. - but then the fashion industry moved in. Now, it's mainly herd instinct and/or a serious mistake with your mates while blind drunk.
ReplyDeleteThis may be BS, but my understanding is that the tattoos which lose their shape were el cheapo to begin with. Ones that last well need to be very finely done with lots and lots of pinpricks. This costs more and hurts a lot more too.
Can't see what's wrong with body art unless it's bad body art. Good stuff is beautiful and inspiring imho. Even so, body piercing - rings, studs, etc. - really gets my goat. Worse even than I Love Mum on your knuckles and a spider's web up the side of your neck.
On the "growing old problem"... There was a guy I used to hand around with in Nottingham as a teenager, and he got the cartoon Tazmanian Devil tattooed on his arm. I bet he loves that now.
ReplyDeleteMy much-older brother is absolutely covered in them. He was somewhat easily led as a youth - if the group drunkenly decided en masse to get one, he'd invariably end up as the only one who went through with it.
More awkwardly, he committed the error of getting his first wife's name tattooed on his arm. Then had that 'coloured in' and his second wife's added. Amusingly, and coincidentally I hope, his current partner has the same name as his second wife.
Tattooing a lover's name, while I appreciate the sentiment, is clearly asking for trouble. The sweetest I've seen is a friend who had his wife's initials tattooed in small letters over his heart. They are still together.
I loved the tattoos sported by my late grandfather, naval-themed from his time in WWII, and thus singnificantly more evocative than the meaningless identikit eastern symbolism and sub-Hallmark rhetoric favoured by today's empty celebs, ironically in a futile search for meaning and identity.
But nothing is more uncool than a fake tattoo. Combine that with a senior Microsoft exec live on stage and, well, the result is all kinds of wrong.
I don't have any, and don't intend to get any. Instead I have a couple of epic scars on my limbs, which I much prefer.
Tattoos are a poor man's scar - back in the day scars (duelling scars, for example) were quite the thing. i have many scars & flaunt them proudly. A temp i knew, who'd been in the Navy for some time, referred to the lower-back tattoo as the "tramp stamp".
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Johnny.
ReplyDeleteA small tasteful tattoo on a young person doesn't bug me, but I do wonder when I see guys -- and some girls -- who look like the main character in Flannery O'Connor's "Parker's Back."
And tattoos on wrinkled skin do look pretty pathetic. I had occasion to point this out just the other day to my son; we were leaving the gym and there was an old guy -- obviously old enough to have served in the Korean War, if not WW II -- and he had on a golf shirt and was, in fact, getting his clubs out of the trunk of his car. Mark and I passed by and were able to observe what had once been a busty mermaid on his bicep and was now a wrinkly fish with sagging dugs. "See?" I said. I think the boy got it.
However, my 18-year-old daughter did get herself a nose piercing (tasteful, on side of nose) just before going off to college. I don't like it at all, but she spent her money and when we were moving her into her dorm, I realized that what looked so subversive on her is, in fact, as common as tight jeans and tank tops on her cohort.
Susan, Is it possible you made the great modern mistake of trying to discuss the issue with your daughter rationally, ostensibly to hear her point of view and maybe even learn from her while secretly praying to the ancestors to do something--anything-- to keep her from doing it? My proudest parenting memory is of when my 14 year old daughter told me she wanted to pierce something or other. Her eyes glazed over when I started to make "the speech", so I simply said I was thinking of buying myself some gold chains and unbuttoning my shirts to my navel. She looked like she wanted to throw up. She is now a 20 year old beauty with intact, unblemished skin convinced she and she alone made the decision not to do it.
ReplyDeleteYou've got to accept that the Edinburgh military tattoo is a rather splendid thing. Also, they can look pretty cool if you're a maori. But that's about it.
ReplyDeleteI've never wanted a tattoo -- I agree horrible things -- but I'm with Elberry on this. I've always wanted a good scar. The only problem is that it would have to be authentic scar, from some kind of martial action. I then want to sit on a fishing boat comparing my scars with Robert Shaw.
ReplyDeleteTragically, my own daughter sports a (fairly small and discreet) tatto on her upper arm. Though still young, she is old enough to regret it.
ReplyDeleteThose ageing tattoos are going to look like whole-body varicose veins - bad news for people with genuine varicosities. 'No doctor, they are NOT tattoos! What do you take me for?'
By the way, Bryan, why have you not posted your old Pavarotti interview? And why do we now appear to have the same font? Or is that my 'computer'?
Chip, i have a real duelling scar & will one day take a profile photo of myself for posterity. 'Twould have gone down a treat in 19th C Germany but just scares people & alarms bouncers & attracts cops now. Still, stands me in good stead when facing down chavs & ruffians & Scousers.
ReplyDeleteSabres, Elberry?
ReplyDeleteYou didn't vomit when I showed you my mermaid ducky.
ReplyDeleteOn your behind for the sake of the blind... The BA, MA, Ph.D
ReplyDeletePeter, discussing issues with my daughter goes like this:
ReplyDeleteME: "You should/should not do this. Here is why. Blah, blah, blah."
DAUGHTER: Nodding, making eye contact, (seeming to be) taking it all in.
Result: Daughter quietly does what she wants.
I've never been able to get over the nausea caused by realising the permanence of tattoos.
ReplyDeleteThe only bit of Jackass The Movie that made my stomach churn was the eejit getting a tattoo done during a bumpy jeep ride.
i personally do not have a problem with tattoos.. being only 19 myself i have many friends with them .. most of them with the hideous tribal tattoos that mean nothing and look rather stupid. However i did always want on (just something small and discreet) but always put it off thinking about what it would look like in 40 years time. However i went on holiday abroad and did the unthinkable and got one whilst drunk (a small lyric on the inside of my wrist.. by the beatles). i woke up the next day and was horrified by what i had done. however after a few hours i was glad i had done it and after a few days when it had settled down i fell in love with it and have never looked back. i dont think i would ever get any more done as too many can look very tacky but i seriously belive that a small tattoo can look nice. But i am so relieved that i stumbled into a decent tattoist.
ReplyDelete"Know Your Rights"... I can only assume that Ms. Jolie is a fan of The Clash. At least she didn't get all three listed on her back.
ReplyDeleteNO ONE CARES WHAT U THINK ABOUT TATTOOS UR UGLY ANYWAY..SO DONT BE TOO PICKY HUN..CAUSE IM SURE THE ONLY WAY U GET A GIRL IS WITH UR CREDT CARD IN UR HAND.
ReplyDeletehmmm, so I stumbled upon your post because I am an art student doing a comic based on getting my first tattoo and I was looking for reference photos (thanks, google). I'm quite glad to know that I am an "untouchable". I would rather be touched by people who look like David Beckham anyway, and I believe Amy Winehouse is a gorgeous individual. I designed my tattoo myself and have never regretted getting it, even though I got it with my ex boyfriend. It's part of me, and there is no reason for you to look down on me for it. I plan on getting many many more. Maybe you could get a tattoo to fix that receding hairline. You worry about that, and I'll worry about my tattoos.
ReplyDeleteI will never understand why some people get their panties all in a bundle over other people doing what they want to their own bodies. If you don't like it, shut up and 'change the channel' as they say, ya know?
ReplyDeleteThe world is divided into two kinds of people: those who have tattoos, and those who are afraid of people with tattoos.
ReplyDeleteLast time I checked old wrinkly bodies didnt look very attractive anyways, so who cares if they're going to be covered in ink..at least it would be a distraction from the age spots...
ReplyDeleteIf in 40 years, all I have to worry about in life is that my tattoos didnt hold up, then i'm doing alright.
I find it totally lame for to say you wouldn't date somebody with a tattoo. Honestly, to discriminate against somebody for that is absurd.
ReplyDeleteAs for the wrinkles, when I'm 80 I'm going to be more concerned with saggy boobs rather than my saggy tattoos. I'm sure that older war vet you saw outside of the gym spends more time tucking his balls into his socks than looking at his wrinkled mermaid on his arm.
Live and let live and stop worrying what other people choose to do with their bodies.
I have to agree with the later part of these comments, who cares what people do to their bodies? I myself have a tattoo. It's a memorial for my grandmother and I haven't had it even a year yet, but I love it. Another example is my father getting my name tattoo'd on himself. He's had it almost 19 years and to this day he still doesn't regret it. In fact, he's getting it touched up and getting another one for my brothers. It's all about personal taste, and MOST tattoo's mean something to the person. Saying you wouldn't date or be friends with someone who had a tattoo is as discrimatory as saying you wouldn't date someone because they had short hair, coloured hair, contacts or fake nails. Me personally? I could never date someone like you; closed minded, judgemental and crass.
ReplyDeleteLet people live their own lives and find something better to do with the last few years you have left.
Do not judge, lest ye be judged.
ok, i commented a while back about my beatles tattoo i got when i was drunk.. i also said i would never get anymore.. this was a lie (perhaps i was drunk when i posted the last post, who knows). Becuase i did indeed get another one.i got musical notes on my hand.. i work in a bank and it really annoys me how many of the older customers come in and look at me like i am a a thug and about to steal their money. if people want a tattoo who are they hurting really?? unless we have f*@k off written across our heads leave us be and find something else to moan about.
ReplyDeleteI am quite offended by Ian russell's comment. Just because a person has tattoos dose not make them sociopaths! I no people who have tattoos and have very nice homes.
ReplyDeleteI have always been interested in tattoos and as i am 18 i am saving my money to get my first tattoo and for your information i am also an artist and play and listen to classical music as well as the kind of music you would think me to listen to.
"Know your rights"? yes i do such as freedom of speach.
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People get tattoos for many different reasons so deal with it. If some people dont like it who cares, other people will. If i want a tattoo i ll get one because i want it i dont need anyone to tell me they dont like it or they think its disgusting maybe i think your disgusting.
What do i care if it looks saggy when im older i ll be dead soon anyway at least i tried it and lived my life.
I completely agree with amy lynn thankfully soon i will be untouchable to people like you and dont worry i find you untouchable and cant believe that an individual whos comfortable with themselves and happy enough to get a tattoo would want anything to do with you because in my opinion they're too good for you.
Those of you who are blasting tattoos are clearly in the dark. If the tattoo has meaning for the person who has it, it shouldn't matter if it's a piece of tribal work, an alien space ship, or Mickey Mouse. We all come with different stories, and some of us choose to express those stories on our skin. I've had large tattoos on my back for about ten years and I'm still loving them at 30. And the future wrinkles? Who gives a crap? The skin ages, and the tattoos will age along with it, and it's all a part of who I am and what I am becoming, and hopefully all of your ignorance will wither and wrinkle up over time, too.
ReplyDeleteI think that your just butting in to other peoples bussness tattoos have been around longer than all of us. they are part of are history and they all mean somthing to each of us and people have the right to act dress and do what ever they want to there own body with out having to face jugment and have to explain them selfs to small and narrow minded people.
ReplyDeleteAnd so what who cares that you dont like tattoos dont get one stop complaning when people get one and shut up. no ones making you get one let people live there lives the way they want its the one thing people cant take from you the freedom of being your self we are all very different and its great so imbrace it and try and see things from some one elses point of view.
Being nearly 32 years old, I just recently got my 8th tattoo, a rather large tribal design on my right calf. Adding to the already existing 3 tribals, Celtic knot, Chinese Horoscope, music note, and Arabic Phrase. I can respect people that don't care for tattoos, or fear people that have tattoos, but we are not all bad. One example, one of my closest friends is a nurse and currently has 14 or more tattoos. My best friend is a teacher and she currently has 2 tattoos. In this day and age, tattooing or body piercings are a Right Of Passage. Everytime I encounter a person that gets all high and mighty and judgemental about tattoos, I quote a line from a movie "We must all go through a right of passage and it must be physical, it must be painful, and it must leave a mark." Even the most primitive tribes in the deepest, darkest jungles use tattoos as a right of passage and adulthood. That is why so many young adults get a tattoo, a right of passage. Keep in mind, there are 2 kinds of people in this world, People who have Tattoos, and people who are scared of people with tattoos.
ReplyDeleteIncredible How can you be so closed minded. If a person wants a tattoo who cares leave it alone. i believe all tattoos say something about a person . Your not afraid to commit. You know what you want. And we obviously dont give a shit what old people think is right or wrong about people that have tattoos . If the mona lisa or Madonna of the Rocks or the sistine chapel was tattooed on a person it would still be art and still be beautiful. Just beacuase its not on a canvas doen't mean it is not art.
ReplyDeleteThank You! I agree 100%
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI know everyone is trying to get their two cents in, but its not going to change this man's mind. Especially with the horrible grammar, and ridiculous spelling errors made, he probably just thinks your a bunch of idiots arguing for the sake of arguing. Pretty normal on a blog, and when you go anonymous, it makes him think that you aren't brave enough to really stand for what you believe in. (Before I get a million emails, it's what it looks like, not what i believe!)
ReplyDeleteNow on the other hand, I myself am a tattoo enthusiast, but am also the owner of an architectural firm. So I guess that might not "fit" your idea of a tattooed person. Now don't get me wrong, I don't agree with some of the things people get tattooed on them, such as names, slogans , pictures of pets, etc, but you can't go off and judge someone simply because they have tattoos.
I also have a problem with the fact that most people who get tattoos do it to be cool, fit in, or because everyone else has one.
I would like to address Ian Russell's post and tell him to get a grip. A tattoo does not make you "spray graffiti tags on the walls" of your home,or anywhere else for that matter. Arrogant Prick.
Why does it bother you so much? Are you basically saying you're holding prejudice on someone because they don't look the same as you,dress the same as you, like the same things you do. Oh, and so you can see my point on how you went across the line earlier, can I say since you hold prejudice on people with tattoos that you hate blacks, Mexicans, etc? No. So grow up.
I think you all need to get a grip, on both sides of this argument, because, well, it shouldn't be an argument. You don't like how tattoos look? Good for you. Don't fucking look. For the others, think a bit before you get a tattoo. I'm tired of seeing kids get tattoos that don't mean anything to them. Spend at LEAST 3 to 4 months thinking about it.
Oh and to spongebob, I hope you have a reason for your tattoo, cause spiderwebs are a symbol of jail time or addiction.
I'm a 20 year old female with 4 tattoos that actually mean a lot to me. As well as two huge scars on my back from scoliosis surgery when I was 14. My mother doesn't appreciate my tattoos, my sister's, or my father's but nonetheless she loves her colorful family.
ReplyDeleteMy colors will fade, my skin will get saggy, but I'll have a story for each of them MUCH more exciting than my surgery scars.
I'm a 24 year old female with 3 tatoos and planning my fourth. They all have their own meaning and I now want one to remind me that life is for living. I have my reasons for my tattoos and they add to me, not ruin me. I appreciate that not everyone likes tattoos, but instead of judging those of us that have them, perhaps you should think about why we do. For the majority of us, there are deep personal reasons for them, reminding us of things we never want to forget.
ReplyDeleteI have a tattoo on my ribs - it's a line from a beautiful poem by Andrew Marvell. The poem, "To His Coy Mistress", is about lust, cruelty, time, living, death, geography, satire, hope - the list could go on. Do i tally with your rather shallow, cliched view of a tattooed person? You obviously don't appreciate the great art-form that all well-inked tattoos, not just literary quotes, are. You clearly know nothing of their history and singular beauty, part of which is their inevitable decay.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, you seem to like dictating what other people should and shouldn't do with their bodies. Good luck with that, sunshine.
Oh, and ra...you quoted my favorite movie. :)
ReplyDeleteI don't understand why everyone gets so upset about tattoos. If you think it through and choose a tasteful tattoo that means something to you, then what does it matter?
ReplyDeleteSure, when you grow old it will sag, loose its color and not look as cute and fun as it did when you first got it, but by the time it gets to that point, hopefully you're not still showing it off to all your friends at bingo.
I have two beautiful doves tattoo'd on my hips that i love. Eventhough I was barely 17 when i got them i know that i will love and never regret them for the rest of my life. Just because I have tattoos, and im planning on getting another one in the very near future, doesn't mean I'm some kind of punk. In fact, Im going to school to become a pediatric nurse next year. And i highly doubt that the ink on my skin will affect me when I'm saving children's lives.
I'm sure there are things about you people would consider hideous and loony, Bryan, so don't fool your pretentious self into believing you're above people who have tattoos.
ReplyDeleteMost people who get tattoos see it as art (which it is - hence the title "tattoo *artist*"), and more often than not the design(s) they get are very meaningful to them. Tattoos are reminders of poignant events in one's life (I'm referring specifically to adults who understand the permanency of tattoos, not teeny-boppers who walk into a tattoo shop the day they turn eighteen and point to the first thing they see on the wall), and documenting one's life through art is certainly nothing to be ashamed of.
In regard to your comment about tattoos looking even more hideous when one ages, my response is who cares? When one reaches the age where tattoos are starting to look old and faded (like your age range, for instance), the rest of their appearance is probably going downhill, anyway.
Tattoos represent a moment in time. They are the physicalization of memories.
ReplyDeleteYes, a person may eventually regret his or her tattoos, but you have to wonder if it is worse to regret an action or to live your life always worrying about regret. You don't want to have to regret not living, for life is not for certain.
The only thing i would regret as i got older would be living a grey, uneventfull, middle of the road life with nothing to single me out from the rest of the chino wearing, middle management, hum drum, barely existing let alone having some interesting experiences to remember when i die,2.4 children, average family car driving sheep that i feel many of the posters on this subject must surely be. Its only my opinion mind you and if you are offended by this then you must surely fall squarely into this category and should be ashamed.Only my opinion.
ReplyDeleteFirstly, I personally find tattoos fascinating – humans have always been decorative, I have a few tattoos myself and I plan to get one more upon my wrist. Insulting people who have tattoos in this article is indeed quite harsh, why? There will always be thousands of things that other people find unattractive about others… some people disliking blue eyes and the everyday latter over beauty categories to describe what we may define as perfection…
ReplyDeleteLet's be real, people. Tattoos are a huge FAD right now. People get tattoos because everybody else is doing it. Sometimes they have special meaning, sometimes they don't. I find it hilarious how people who have them think they're a sign of individuality. Hello! To me they're a sign of following the crowd. Think of how much fashion changes over five or ten years. Then think about how "cool" your cheesy tribal tattoo is now, compared with when you first got it... too bad you can't take it off!
ReplyDeleteI also think the sentiment that there are two kinds of people - those who have tattoos and those who fear people with tattoos - is ridiculous. I'm definitely not afraid of anyone with tattoos...although I love how people who have a lot of them look at everyone else like "Be afraid of me cuz of my tats," or "I really need attention. Can't you tell by all the tattoos I have?" How about, "Expressing my individuality through my words and actions is just too HARD. That's why I have to have all these tattoos to let everyone know how unique I am."
I have a lot of friends with tattoos and I really don't care what somebody else does with their body. But I'm pretty sure most people who get covered in tats are really just trying to prove to the world how "hard" they are. Whatever; I don't buy it.
I view the human body as a blank canvas. At age 28, I currently have 3 tattoos.
ReplyDeleteAll are covered in the office. The partner of my firm was actually surprised I had them... apparently my personality presents itself as a straight-and-narrow kind of girl. But.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but everyone also needs to face reality and realize that the percentage of inked individuals is increasing. The acceptability of them is also increasing.
While some may consider this "herd mentality," I find it more likely that the social stigma once associated with them has faded, thus people are willing to venture into the world of body art more readily. There's nothing wrong with that. Maybe it was herd mentality holding them back from getting inked in the first place...
I'm going to get this entire tattoo blog tattooed down my back.
ReplyDeleteIn respoonse to the anonymous blogger on February 12 who said we get tattoos to be hard, obviously you are extremely mislead and confused. When my sister died in a car accident a little over a year ago, I got my first tattoo down my side/ on my rib area to remember her. I don't show it to anyone, as it is covered by what I wear. But my intention was clearly NOT to seem hard, but rather to always remember my sister in a physical way. She meant the world to me, and now she will always be with me. I think you need to be a little less ignorant and realize people do things for different reasons. Don't judge me for my tattoo and assume im trying to be tough when I'm not. So pull your head out of your bum and realize that you just make yourself look stupid and ignorant when you bash other people without going person by person and asking the significance of their tattoo.
ReplyDeleteI completely and utterly disagree I think tattoos are unbelievably lovely!
ReplyDeleteMore so if peoples tattoos tie in with one another, mean something, and create a lovely picture all together; all the better! That's probably why I love a guy with sleeves. I’m not a fan of random tattoos just slapped all over and only in black ink, I like colour!
Oh and the growing old thing, my mums best friend is 55 and has tattoos, hers look fine with age. If you take care of yourself, then your tattoos won't look nasty. Just keep it out of the [direct] sun for long periods, and put sun screen on the tat if you use tanning beds.
My tats so far all have been done by a guy who went through art school and is a really wicked artist; some of his artwork is featured around the city. He loves colours and tries to use it throughout the tat including the outlines instead of black he’ll use a darker shade of what is going inside the tat.
Thankfully I don't have closed-minded parents like [some of] you people; I would've rebelled to the extreme if I did. My mum was annoyed when I got my first tat until she saw it and liked it, my dad didn't care it's my body not his so what that problem? Since then my mum has gotten a tattoo and wants more. She didn't even care when I got my nose pierced now she's fine with me getting a Monroe piercing. Ha!
I’m 21 old enough to make my own decisions and they include some more tattoos!
Since my post, I have noticed several people jumping in. Here is what most do not get. There are those in the world that love tattoos for the art, there are those that use tattoos to mark a a very big event in their lives, and there are those that are so closed minded and so judgmental that they have to talk down and about people with tattoos, and look upon us as criminals and the lowest form of life on the face of the earth. All I can say to those people....There is only One True Judge, and you need to let him do his job!
ReplyDeleteI am a married mother of 3 who works very closely with patients in an Obstetrics office and I have several tattoos. They all have meaning for me. I have 3 that represent the births of each of my children that are on my side which is covered by clothing. I have one that matches one my husband has that we got on our honeymoon 10 years ago. I have also gotten one each time my husband has been unfortunate enough to have to be shipped off to that hot desert in Iraq (he is a US Marine). Those are beautiful and all blend together and are on my left arm. I have several others some of which can and can't be seen by everyone. None of mine are meaningless or meant to make me look "hard" or "tough". My father is a 55 year old computer engineer and has a full sleeve on his arm and a dragon down his back and over his chest. He got each one to represent each of his 20+ years of sobriety and they still look great because he takes care of his body. My best friend got one to mark being declared "cancer free" after almost a year of treatment for lymphoma (she was diagnosed when she was 6 months pregnant to top it all off). Why would anyone judge her for that? I commend her for fighting and winning and not wanting to ever forget or become complacent with life. If someone does not like tattoos, that is totally fine. Just don't judge me based on mine. That would be like judging me because I have red hair or because I drive a minivan (holds all the kids comfortably and is more environmentally friendly than an SUV). I do know that some tattoos are not exactly what I would want permanently marking my skin, but to each his own. That is all I wanted to say. Now I feel better.
ReplyDeleteI had no idea that people such as yourself actually existed -- I thought merely a product of over-zealous storytelling -- you know, the ones without so much as a life of their own that they must concern themselves with what others are doing. I suggest that unless you find yourself strapped into a tattoo artists' chair with the needle approaching, maybe you would want to consider that we're all people. We're all the same when we boil down it down, why concern yourself with what other people's skin looks like? In hindsight, maybe this would make you a racist also? It's called humanity. Give it a try.
ReplyDeleteExactly, because lets face it, if we were all alike, life would not be any fun!!
ReplyDeleteperhaps tattoos are about wanting to own yourself, making a mark, a stamp that says this is what you have done...owned yourself
ReplyDeletewhich raises alarming questions about why you didn't own yourself to begin with..
has the mind/body fissure got something to do with it all. We do not feel that we're our bodies, but if we brand them in some artificial way, somehow they become ours?
I share your aversion to tattoos.
Even if they're beautiful I just think: 'How do you know your future is going to approve of that?'
Aren't you setting yourself up for some serious self-embarrassment?
There isn't much I could say that hasn't already been said. Everyone, those with and without tattoos, make the decision based on what they believe to be right for them. That is their personal choice, and it shouldn't matter to anyone else.
ReplyDeleteMe, I just got my fourth tattoo last week. I spent a very long time putting thought into the design and placement of each one. I am also an artist and have designed them all myself. I got them for myself, not anyone else. They are all in places that are hidden by clothing at all times, and unless I show them to you, you'll never know they're there. I'm a medical student, work in a health center, and am a volunteer for Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Do I fit your close-minded profile for an "untouchable"?
My mother took me to get my first tattoo, and taught me how to go about it responsibly. She tells me all the time that my tattoos are beautiful. They're part of me, and I am her daughter. This past Christmas she even got one that I had designed for her, representing my sister and myself.
What I think a lot of these people are trying to say is, you can't know someone based on simply looking at them, whether tattooed or not. They are definitely not for everyone, and that is ok.
In 40 years, no matter how much my tattoos fade or sag, I know I will love them as much as I do today. Each one represents a different time in my life. Years down the road they will still be a part of who I was and what made me who I am. That is nothing to be ashamed of.
From this thread I've learned that people with tattoos are very aggressive and definitely scary with a great deal of time available to write at considerable length of how unimportant and unworthy of attention they think criticism.
ReplyDeleteThey also all seem to be the same person.
Hey guys my name is Zach. I am currently 18 years old and a senior in Highschool in the US. I have a 12x5 in tattoo on my calf, a 7x3 in tattoo on my left lower arm. In about 2 weeks I have the first session towards my half sleeve Koi Fish in full color that I am getting. It will rap all the way around my arm down to my elbow. In 4 months I am shipping out to the Army. The koi fish represents trying to get over a big moment in your life...going to boot camp will be very tough. Everytime I look at my arm It will help me through whatever I am facing. I say who cares at all what other people think about you and just live how you want to. If i cared about what people thought about me I would go crazy. Always worrying about what other people think takes away from life. For people to put others down for having it are just plain shallow to me. If you don't like them then thats fine, don't get one. But, if you put people down for having them then you just make yourself into an ass.
ReplyDeleteAlright Mr. Appleyard. I'm surprised that I'm sending this comment because normally when I see someone with the word "apple" in their name they drop below my "radar" dramatically. But I guess I could bend fate this once for the sake of the subject.
ReplyDeleteTattoos are statements and works of art. I'm sure you own countless objects that are symbolic or expressive in some way. If a human being wants to express themselves with ink on their skin, how is that so different from you wearing certain types of clothes, or owning a specific model of car.
Everyone seems to be whining about the possibility that your tattoo might age improperly or fade. If your tattoo doesn't look quite the same 10 years later, then get it touched up. There is nothing wrong with touching up a tattoo and strengthening its design. If you see someone with a noticeably aged tattoo, I assure you it’s through that specific persons own neglect that it looks that way.
There are bad tattoos out there like generic tribal designs, and people that don't take care of themselves or their tattoos. It's not logically fair to throw these people in the same category with those who strive for the perfection of an art form that has been long practiced before any oil panting that you may have hanging on a wall of your house. Respect tattoos.
Sorry, but anyone who thinks Angelina Jolie isn't their type is homosexual. I'm not saying there isn't anything wrong with that, but don't kid your readers.
ReplyDeleteMy girlfriend, father, grandmother, and other relatives all have tattoos. There is nothing terrible about them. They have their meaning and place in time. You, sir, just need to get something you believe in tattooed on you, then you'll understand.
i recieved my first tattoo three days ago. "see no evil hear no evil speak no evil" to me this is more important than a picture, than a scar. it means something to ME. that is why I chose to get it. if you do not agree with "slogan" tattoos or tattoos in general, remember that everything means something different to someone else. it is not up to anybody to decide who is worthy of receiving higher positions than others because of what may be on our bodies. it is not up to anyone to judge each other. this world has become so negative..why can we not see the beauty in difference?
ReplyDeleteyou seem like a very close minded person. art comes in many forms, from the graffiti on the side of the free-way, to mosaics to oil pantings. i myself have 15 tattoos, covering my chest, arms, legs, side, shoulders, & elbows. I hold a steady job, have a great girlfriend, have never been in trouble with the law. you may not find tattoos appealing, but to say 'untouchable'? that seems a little shallow to say the least. in my opinion, you should open your eyes, see people for who they are and not judge them by the way they have chose to express themselves. someday i hope u have children and they find the beauty in tattoos and cover their body.
ReplyDeleteThe only difference between tattooed people and non-tattoed people is that tattoed people dont give a fuck that you dont have tattoes.
ReplyDeleteIts a personal choice and although you may not like them to refuse to associate with people with them is shallow and stupid, not to mention that some tattoes hold meaning to people so think before you write stupid things as though you know all.
look ultimately we all know that mr appleyard is being a bit of an ass when it comes to tattoos. but let it go. as long as your happy with your ink, then that's okay. people who judge others as quickly and as superficially as he does - whether it be ink, piercings, skin colour, disability, sex, age, whatever they're harping on about - aren't really worth the time of day. so why bother letting them get to you. anyway karma's a great thing - some day a tattoo'd doctor will save his life!!
ReplyDeletePeople dont get tattoos to show how tough they are. They are a form of showing the world what you love. Tattoo's aren't a "FAD", they have been around for thousands of years, they will continue to be around for thousands of years. I think it's sad that people have to worry about the way they look to the social crowds they beg to impress. Who the hell cares. Your just living up to other peoples expectations, isn't that the sad truth. Caring about what people think about you to the point where you wouldn't dress or look a certain way, is not a way I would like to live my life...ever. It's none of anyones business whether or not people have ink. Tattoo's are a form of self healing, accomplishment, and self expression. Just because something doesnt make sense to you, you dont need make your self look like an arrogant idiot and judge others.
ReplyDeleteHow funny, I too stumbled into this site from a Google image while researching my next tattoo. I have 2 tattoos and I love them, I designed both of them and I am not ashamed to have them and never hide them. I just wonder how many times you have enjoyed talking to someone who has tattoos, only you didn't know it. I wonder how many people with tattoos you have admired, you just didn't know they had tattoos. I wonder how many members of your family have them, you just don't know them. I wonder how many members of your family you would actually ostracize if you knew they had a tattoo. I wonder how lonely you would be if all people with tattoos would be gone from this earth. I wonder how fast you would sell your principles if the person you cared for the most in this life came home with some ink. I wonder how lonely you are now. Tattoos are older than your dimituve balls because it takes some balls to get one, maybe balls you don't and will never have.
ReplyDeleteI also stumbled on this site because I was researching a design for a tattoo! I look like the straightest person in the world - professional, wear a suit for work, articulate and intelligent. But people make huge assumptions about me and I love it when they find out that I love tattoos "Oh you don't seem the type..." WHAT type!! I have two tattoos - one from twenty years ago and one last year. Currently looking for designs for a couple more. When I'm dressed for work - no one can see them - but when someone knows me well...
ReplyDeleteI love seeing other people's tattoos and finding out what they mean to them. The most beautiful one I've ever seen was a Japanese scene on the arm of a hairdresser in Ealing. Was amazing.
WHO CARES WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE WHEN YOUR 75!!!
ReplyDeletewhy do you keep stressing about something 40 years from now!!
my friend died at 19 he loved tattoos and had several what if he never got one because he was afraid of how he looked? he never even lived to see them get all wrinkled!! How much he loved tattoos he'd think he wasted his life if he never got one, all you people are afraid of your own shadow and more importantly the future and you're all propagandist saying it's right or wrong I personally LOVE tattoos if you don't fine don't waste your time blogging about it
SOME PEOPLE BUY WONDERFUL MILLION DOLLAR PAINTINGS AND PUT THEM ON THEIR WALLS AND OTHERS BUY BEAUTIFUL ONE OF A KIND MEANINGFUL WPRKS OF ART AND PLACE THEN ON THEIR BODIES. WHATS THE DIFFRENCE?
ReplyDeleteYEA WE GROW OLD AND OUR TATTOS WILL NOT LOOK AT GREAT AS THEY USED TO BUT THEY MEAN ALOT TO US AND ITS LIKE A TIMELINE...YOU ALWAYS KNOW WHAT HAPPEN THE DAY YOU GOT YOUR TATTOO...WHY YOU GOT IT,THE SMELLS AND PEOPLE AROUND YOU...ITS CALLED MEMORIES :-)
I KNOW ILL ALWAYS HAVE A STORY TO TELL YOUNG PEOPLE WHEN IM OLD AND GREY ABOUT MY TATTOOS AND WHAT THEY MEAN TO ME AND HOW SPECIAL THEY ARE TO ME... UNLIKE YOU WHO WILL ONLY SPEND YOUR TIME BITCHEN ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE AND NOT WORRYING ABOUT YOURS...
Well what a wanker Bryan Appleyard presents himself as. Your a lesser person if your tattooed, and please give Britany a break, how trendy it has become to bag her. I have allot of scars, and plates and pins for that matter, all of which will look utterly hideous and cause me a great deal of pain when i age, unlike my tattoos. I might add that my tattoos were my choice, my scars were not, and i wear both proudly.
ReplyDeleteha ha ha,cant believe such a ugly f**k can be soooo picky about who he'd date,if i looked like him id be grateful for any lil bit o interest adn possibly get a tattoo to cover his damn face lol.tatoos are a way of expressing urself,i am a 21 year old girl with 3 tats,1 on either wrist and 1 behind my ear and all have meaning to me, and ima get more done no matter wha neone says!!!!! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt makes me sad when people get tattoos that are gigantic and don't seem to have any real significance. I have a tattoo of my mother's name written in Arabic (we are Lebanese) on the inside of my right forearm. it's very easy to cover when I need to, but I never really do. it means a lot to me because it's my mother's name and my mother is the most important person in my life.
ReplyDeletealso, Arabic is a beautifully written language. Since I don't look Arabic, I wanted something that would let people know without me having to tell them.
it's a nice little reminder of why I do the good things I do, just in case I happen to forget for some reason.
anyway, just like people who don't read Arabic don't know what my tattoo says or the meaning behind it, I don't know what someone else's means or the meaning behind theirs, no matter how tasteless and huge it may be. so, I try not to judge, but sometimes, you just can't help it.
Personally I love the fact that there are people out there that would consider me a subpar human being because I have tattoos. It's a really quick and easy way to figure out which people I want nothing to do with. And really, Anglenia Jolie beneath YOUR radar? You're clearly high off your ass. But please, by all means, continue to hate us. I like it better that way.
ReplyDeleteTo those of you who would judge a person because of the color ON their skin do you also judge for the color OF their skin?
ReplyDeleteTo the person that left the anonymous post on February 12th... and anyone else who thinks they way they do.
First of all, tattoos are not a FAD right now. Body modification is the oldest ART form known to man, try doing some research on Oetzi the Iceman. His mummified body dates over 5300 years and he has 57 tattoos. So you can put that in your pipe and smoke it. They've simply become more accepted in society. People with body modification used to, willingly, be part of circus 'freak' shows, now they *gasp* walk among the small minded, half the time undetected anyway.
And they do express individuality. No, having a tattoo does not make you an individual, its WHAT you have tattooed and where. Thats like saying that your home cant express individuality, since everyone lives in a home. You hang the art where you want to hang it.
I have two, and I hardly think anyone looks at me and thinks I look 'hard' as one person claimed that was the effect we were seeking. My first one is a small religious symbol (an Ohm) on the inside of my wrist, which helped me through a very rough patch in my life. The second is a work in progress on my back (shoulder blade) and can not be seen normally. except a little bit that peeks out if I have a tank top on, and when it is finished, it will be a tribute to my late grandmother.
By the way, I *love* (::cough:: sarcasm ::cough::) how someone's point involved the old man with his Navy tattoo.. and many of you have thrown the same idea in there... "Oh no, one day when your skin is old, saggy and wrinkly... it might look less attractive!" I love to ask Navy veterans about their tattoos, I've never found one that regrets theirs. For all you know that mermaid was done by/with a close friend he was in the service with who later died in the war. Or maybe his unit got matching tattoos as a form of brotherhood. You don't know. Do some research in the old Navy tattoos, there is significance in most of the designs. Those little stars, the sparrows, they all have meaning. A permanent way of showing where you'd been, how far you travelled, what you did.
I've had the one on my wrist for a year and a half and even though I love to look at it, and reflect on its significance, its part of me, physically, forever, and I don't even really notice it as 'foreign to my body' or see it with any differently then a freckle or birth mark. I'm sure in 50-60 years (long after old fart who wrote this blog kicks the bucket) and all us 'cool' kids move into the nursing homes "Who's tattoo held up the best?" will be just another chat among the conversations of who has the most grandkids or what form of mush we hope we are getting for dinner.
You want to judge me, use this: I'm days shy of 25 years old. I am college educated -with honors, I should add- person, who frequents art galleries, votes, recycles, volunteers with the animal shelter and the special olympics and, runs a non profit group that uses music to promote positive change in my community and the world. [We recently held a benefit concert that raised over $4K for Doctors Without Borders for their work in Darfur] I enjoy painting, reading, photography, sleeping in, traveling and live music. My last run in with the police was because my friends and I were singing and dancing to The Beatles very loudly and very late at night in an apartment. I'm usually late to everything and everywhere, and I'm horrible with budgeting my money. I always speed when I drive, and I love to steal pint glasses from restaurants and bars if they have a cool logo or design on them. I used to be a 'cutter' in high school and though the scars healed and faded long ago, some times I still struggle not to revert to my old ways.
I am a human being, with all the good and bad that comes with that and f**k you or anyone who will judge me as a lesser person based on my tattoos.
Phew, apologies, that was a long one, and I got a little angry at the end.
And thank you google for directing me to this for no apparent reason. Back to reality now....
The ignorance you exhibit is repulsive. There are several unique and creative ways of expressing ourselves, and I wouldn't expect you to understand any of them. I'm very sorry for you. My life is more rich than yours will ever be.
ReplyDeleteThat last one was me, by the way.
ReplyDeleteSeriously the sweeping statements made the anti tattoo lobbyists here make you slightly less intelligent than your average racist.
ReplyDeleteBravo
Kind Regards
Jay
I love how most of the people with tattoos who have posted here assume that everyone who doesn't like tats is narrow-minded and prejudiced against them. Many of them seem to relish this sense of being victimized or judged because of their tattoos. There's definitely a defensive mentality here. Is it possible that some people who have tattoos enjoy, or seek some sense of identify in feeling like part of a marginalized or persecuted group?
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised that some of the tattoo enthusiasts posting on this board are so offended by the comments of people who do not like tattoos. After all it is only a matter of taste. I would probably not date someone with a tattoo either for many reasons (although I have done so in the past). And I would not complain if someone would not date me because I don't have a tattoo, for whatever reason. Exterior markings (especially those added by the individual) are often a good clue to what a person stands for on the inside. I think a highly conservative individual may quite rightly say that they don't want to date someone who would make a choice to get a tattoo. I really think if you are so offended by people who comment about not liking tattoos maybe you shouldn't have one. You clearly don't react well to the attention it gets you, and some of you have been overly aggressive in your replies.
ReplyDeleteMichelle, you need to chill out dude.
ReplyDeleteYour list of achievements is redundant...you don't have to tell us everything you have acheived in your life to prove you aren't a stereotype...
Therefore, are you saying it's okay to have a tattoo but only as long as you have a resume of activities like yours? What if you don't? Is it still okay to have a tattoo?
I think you have a chip on your shoulder. And it's probably even more obvious than your tattoo.
Dear "anonymous"
ReplyDeleteI wasn't leaving my 'list of achievements' but merely trying to prove my point. Many people on here clearly have a view of people with tattoos/body modification and it is an unfair and stereotypical one. The minute I said I was pro-tattoo I'm sure there were a lot of people who immediately lumped me into that category where nothing else in my life matters but that one fact. I don't care what people have done in their life or why they have their tattoos. *I* DONT judge people for having them, or not having them for that matter. Many people still seem surprised when a person with a tattoo turns out to be a normal person, but these are the same people I think probably still use phrases like "He's so well spoken" as a surprise when they meet a black person that doesn't use slang. Its nauseating.
I must agree with Mr Appleyard here. All people who wear tattoos nowadays are crowd-following wannabee induhviduals. Either that or they were too young or too drunk at the time to make a balanced decision.
ReplyDeleteKudos to the fahter who told his kid that he would wear his shirt unbuttoned and some gold chains to make her change her mind on the tattoo.
There used to be a time (30 years ago?) when somebody with a tattoo would impress me, that is, scare me, because they were only worn by hardcore criminals or saylors with a lack of morals or other maladjusted people. Since then it has gradually devaluated. It is a trend but with one disadvantage: when the trend is over, the tattoos cannot be thrown away.
-Not a tattoo man-
what trend are you refering to the fact that people have been getting tattoos for thousands of years. That does't sound like a trend to me sounds more like a gruop of people who enjoy art. As long as there are tattoos theyre will always be tattoo haters and I think there so angry with us tattoo freaks because they are afraid of ever getting one. Its like that kid in every movie that says guys I dont think I should do this. To say you wouldn't date someone because of a tattoo is absurd. You should see people for who they really are. Some people might fit your stereo type but many and I do mean many dont. Tattoos are generally well thought out and have meaning in our hearts for someone to say they are stupid or wrong or ugly is like somone saying your lucky charm or your baby blanket or your favorite shirt or your family heirloom is stupid and wrong for you to have. Why criticize. Angelina Jolie has done alot of good in this world and so lets say she is wrong in doing so for having a tattoo. Thats ignorance. I have tattoos my tattoos dont make me wrong only when I consent to them being bad or wrong are they then so. until then ive done what many wont and my art lets the world know that i know something they dont, there meaning which i hold very dear to my heart and thats something a non tattooed person can never experience
ReplyDeleteMichelle - that's the chip I was talking about - it is *you* who is assuming people will stereotype you. That is my exact point.
ReplyDeleteThere is also an assumption by some posters that not being a fan of tatoos is the same as being angry about them. On the contrary, it doesn't anger me at all - each to their own. Really. I'm also amazed that some posters believe that I would be "afraid" of them because of their tattoos. How deluded can you get? I mean how scary are these tatts? LOL
Why waste any energy getting all worked up over what other people are doing to their bodies? You can't change it. Yes, tattoos have become fashionable, and it's an extreme form of fashion, but if you go to a real artist, a tattoo will not turn into a shapeless mass. That can certainly happen when the tattoo is not done correctly. This is why it is important to really take your time in choosing an artist. It's an art form that requires a lot of technical knowledge. It is also basically a medical procedure, and you need to look for someone who treats it as such, infections can destroy the tattoo as well. But the formless blobs you see on older people, like veterans, got their tattoos many decades ago, when they still used india ink. Of course I'm sure the comments posted from a negative standpoint were by people who wouldn't ever look into such things, so they were unaware, and I'm sure they will all be running to the nearest shop now.
ReplyDeleteEveryone is a crowd following wannabe individual. Everyone likes to think they are unique. None of us are, so why throw stones at that one particular group? Maybe it is an extreme way of trying to express one's self while yet identifying with a culture, but that is where society is right now. But look around, the world becomes more "extreme" every day. It seems like those of you that are so very anti-tattoo are of an older generation, one that will be gone before this one, and maybe this generations future is frightening to you, but don't worry, you won't have to be there.
ReplyDeleteNothing is sacred anymore.
the only differnce between tatooed people and non tatooed people is that tattoed people dont give a shit that you dont have tattoos, get with the times people
ReplyDeleteI'm a tattooist and I don't know anyone who actually got a tattoo for the sake of being "different". Tattoos are generally accepted these days. Personally I very rarely get strange looks, or even a second glance. I get far more compliments and curious questions such as "does it hurt" or "who did you go to". Sure, it was, at one time, something rebellious to do. Something that made you an "outsider", I think that was the 80's and earlier. The type of people that come into the shop range from every single background imaginable. You really can't use "people with tattoos" as a label for some subculture anymore. I've done work for white collar Christians, preppy college kids, skaters, punks, blacks, doctors, teachers...you name it. You never know who might have one hiding under their clothes. If anything, it's not a popular way of "expressing" one's self anymore, most of the time it is a way to mark something of importance in someone's life. MOST of the work people want is backed by a deeply personal story. Some find a memorial tattoo a way to still feel close to a lost loved one, or maybe they choose something to represent having overcome a great hardship in their life. Sometimes it may not have meaning, it may just be about the art and yes, of course many people regret something they got in haste. As for people getting tattoos when they were drunk, I will not touch anyone who seems even slightly inebriated. ANY tattooist worth going to would do the same. It is HIGHLY unethical. This is something that used to go on, years ago, but most artists who work in a reputable shop treat the whole process VERY seriously. To have someone show up for an appointment drunk is an insult to most of us. And aside from the moral standpoint, you have the technical one, alcohol thins the blood, they would bleed out the ink.
ReplyDeleteEveryone is certainly entitled to their opinion, and I'm sure there are valid points in the many posted here, but reading through them these 2 seem to keep popping up again and again. Just thought I'd share give some facts from this end.
You speak about people with tattoos being lunatics and at most point almost describe us as being sub-normal. The majority of tattooed people that i have had the pleasure to meet, have a better understanding and regard for art work and cultural diversities than most people commenting here. As the old saying goes dont judge a book by its cover!!!
ReplyDeleteI have 2 full sleeves of tattoos based on horror movies. I actualy need these 2 peices done just so I can function. I have add and the tattoos actually take control of part of my attention span so that I am able to do tasks more normally without taking meds. The paid from tattooing is also exhilirating, its almost like orgasming just from the endorphines that load into your head from a long session. Its quite fabulous.
ReplyDeletemeant to say Pain* not paid ^
ReplyDeleteI don't get the slogans. I mean, what are the insides of their homes like? estetik ameliyatlar do they spray graffiti tags on the walls instead of hanging a nice Vettriano over the fireplace? (I expect they belong to that group of sociopaths who go overboard on faerie lights at christmas). estetik burun ameliyati Oh well, I suppose tattoos are a statement of identity and belonging. gögüs büyütme estetigi Once they were confined to certain social groups - matelots and crooks, e.g. - but then the fashion industry moved in. estetik gögüs ameliyatlari Now, it's mainly herd instinct and/or a serious mistake with your mates while blind drunk. gögüs küçültme estetigi More awkwardly, he committed the error of getting his first wife's name tattooed on his arm. karin ameliyatlari Then had that 'coloured in' and his second wife's added. Amusingly, and coincidentally I hope, his current partner has the same name as his second wife. cinsel organ estetigi Tattoos are a poor man's scar - back in the day scars (duelling scars, for example) were quite the thing. lazer epilasyon i have many scars & flaunt them proudly. karin germe estetigi A temp i knew, who'd been in the Navy for some time, referred to the lower-back tattoo as the "tramp stamp". estetik I don't have any, and don't intend to get any. Instead I have a couple of epic scars on my limbs, which I much prefer. saç nakli
ReplyDeleteI can't understand why people become so offended by what a person chooses to do to their own body. Whether it be tattoos, piercing, etc., the only person who should really care about what goes in/on their body is the person themselves.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, I personally am a fan of tattoos when done well and in good taste. I look at tattoos as an art form and a way of expressing oneself. Tattoos are art, and art is beautiful.
I've developed a rather big crush on someone and recently found out he is tattooed. I am so utterly disappointed in both him and the fact that I can no longer consider him as a future beau. I hate the ugly ugly things.
ReplyDeleteI found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work Look forward to reading more from you in the future. plz watch out mine and suggest me ur advices. http://wfash.com/category/women-fashoin/tattoos/
ReplyDeleteTattoos are a poor man's scar - back in the day scars (duelling scars, for example) were quite the thing. i have many scars & flaunt them proudly. A temp i knew, who'd been in the Navy for some time, referred to the lower-back tattoo as the "tramp stamp".
ReplyDelete