Controversy: The Influence Of Tattoos

Tattoos are becoming more and more popular in our society. This particular art form was once reserved for people that were deemed undesirable or lower class. In contrast to that, it was also common for people who served in the military. However, we as a culture have shifted and it’s no longer unusual for someone to have a tattoo. The reasons why people get tattooed are as varied as the artistic work itself. It is a way for us to show pride, and individuality. In a lot of cases it’s a rite of passage for our youth. I think since now individuality is culturally praised it is one of the main factors in this new found normalcy for us. While body art is popular there is still a lot of controversy on where they shouldn’t be placed and other body

On the other hand, a few commented on feedback has changed from a negative comments to positive ones. ‘Cas’ received her first tattoo nearly two decades ago and at a time when tattoos—visible or not—were not as widely accepted as they are now. Concealment seemed to be a non-issue with everyone I interview which I found interesting. I think this is mainly due to placement. While tattoos are common, it’s also common for them to be places that are easily concealed by clothing. Which I think also plays a factor in whether or not people receive more negative feedback. In the idea of covering up their artwork people with more intensive body art seemed to be more dedicated to the idea that it doesn’t matter, that it symbolizes who they are and people just have to accept it and they shouldn’t be forced to conceal

I think a lot of people don’t realize that it’s even an issue among people that have tattoos themselves. The common consensus is to never place tattoos on your face. That it is distasteful and usually correlates with some sort of criminal or gang activity. I find this ironic since tattoos in America originally started out with the same stigma when placed in a non-visible area. All my interviewees praised personal decisions and individuality, but physically marking your face with a tattoo was too much. I wish I would have asked more questions on why they felt face tattoos were still taboo in our culture but, it wasn’t until after my completed interviews that I saw that it was a totally rejected idea in all their opinions. I almost feel that hand tattoos would have also made that list if I personally didn’t have one and people didn’t have to worry about possibly offending me. While massive skilled tattoos covering large portions of the body are coveted, anything that eye immediately meets, such as your hands or face, are almost viewed as appalling. I think this may be since then are so rarely done that we don’t see how beautiful they can be just like the rest of our tattoos. I saw this carry through to even body piercings. It’s not only just this main eye contact areas that seem to be frowned upon. Shannon commented that she feels judged on the size and placement of her tattoo on her