Tattoos are an ancient art form and the origins trace back as far as the Stone Age (can you believe it - 12,000 BCE!!). However, tattoos have remained popular throughout time and across all cultures and continents from Argentina to Zimbabwe!
Although some psychological studies of people with tattoos have been said to be restricted to psychiatric inpatients, prisoners in correctional institutions, and military personnel (reflecting only specific populations). One conclusion is, of all the motives for obtaining your tattoo, the quest for personal identity is most likely at central. The skin serves as a useful canvas on which to portray statements of a persons individuality, belonging, sexuality, machismo, boredom,frustration and anger. However, the quest for teenagers identity often becomes embarrassing and irrelevant by 40 years old or so they say, and 50% of people who get tattoos later regret them!
Egyptian mummies show evidence of attempts at tattoo removal. However, since the mast of people live in the present moment, rather than in anticipation of their future endeavors, tattoos will continue to remain popular. Some unpublished data from Candela Laser Corporation (CLC) indicates that in the USA, 10% of men have tattoos and 100,000 women or so actively pursue their tattoos as body art each and every year. In general tattoos aren’t well taken and accepted by the public eye and often create a barrier to employment status. Those with tattoos are often perceived as aggressive, antisocial or immature and looked upon as unable to accept their control and authority.
I think it’s this whole perception of tattoos that makes it harder for people to express themselves and their sense of freedom and expression. However, as tattoos are becoming more and more popular I think that 10% will turn in to 50% in a few years to come. Whats more important is not to feel ashamed by it. Tattoos are an art form in any way you see it, whether this art is on paper or skin, you choose to do what you want with your own body and so be it! Power to tattoos and any other INNOCENT expression of these articulate beings that have the guts to proceed with their wants and needs. Which is beauty and a sense of self!
Franchesca
