If tattooing has been around since time immemorial why did they attain so much popularity in the recent times? Dating back to Neolithic period and aboriginal tribes, tattooing was initially practiced for a wide range of reasons – as a rite of passage and during religious ceremonials.
At present, the tattooing industry has gained social acceptance and grown larger than ever. Starting from the talented artists to the high-quality ink, the sky is certainly the limit for individuals who wish their bodies to be canvas.
The Beginning
According to the Celebrity Ink Franchises, one of the biggest franchises in the world, the word ‘tattoo’ has been utilised for defining a permanent mark made by scars or by inserting pigments. In the recent times, ‘scarification’ is used for the former instead of tattooing.
Regardless of the prevalent narrative, tattoos were not always perceived as a taboo. When one thinks of such a stigma, they must remember there is a long history of elites getting inked; pointing out that a tattoo studio existed as early as 1800s.
Tattoo Cultures
Different types of cultures have different ideas about tattooing. For instance, during the Edo period of Japan, tattoos were almost used exclusively for prisoners and criminals, and they were designed intentionally to mark people as outsiders. During the Second World War, numbers were inked on the skin for administrative record keeping.
Changing Scenario
Given the incredibly rich history, perhaps it is not astonishing that tattoos have become popular over time. This is primarily because tattoos have been worn by athletes, actors, singers, etc.
The 1970s was actually the time when one started seeing celebrities with visible tattoos. Peter Fonda, Janis Joplin, and Cher were among the first to get ink. But another significant aspect to acknowledge is the awareness-building and activism done by the community of tattooists.
The tattooists with art degrees from reputed institutions were responsible for rejuvenating some of the public images. In fact, the tattoo conventions previously were about trying to establish a professional image.
Tattoos are finally recognised as a form of creativity and the various styles have expanded from customised Japanese sleeves to American traditional designs, to full body artworks of elaborate patterns that could urge even those most scared of the machine.
Before Taking the Leap
Planning the first or next tattoo is always quite fun. For some, it is even challenging to look at a fashion magazine without getting stimulated for another design. Since tattooing is so addictive, it is significant that one has a definite plan after they start getting inked. Otherwise they may end up with more than what they really want or designs they will regret later.
The artists of the Celebrity Ink Franchises said when cautiously considered, tattoos are the best way to express suppressed emotions. They offer one the opportunity to establish individuality and challenge the fact that everywhere they go and everything they consume are becoming increasingly similar.
Anyway, to get inked, make sure to schedule an appointment with a proficient, experienced, and reliable body art practitioner – someone who assures quality as well as affordability.
