In psychiatry, the border between Art and Science often hides in clinical experience, which itself often reflects only a dimly grasped set of personal experiences. In this setting, any true objective data becomes a treasure.
As a resident, I learned that tattoos and sociopaths often occurred together. The more tattoos, the more likely a diagnosis of psychopathic personality became. The words love and hate, I understood, applied to the fingers, H-A-T-E on the left hand, L-O-V-E on the right, were essentially pathognomonic of sociopathy. I have believed this for more than 20 years, but after a trip to Greece began to wonder what those patients used in languages where the words did not use four letters. So I decided to write a review, and try to find out.
I was surprised to learn that there existed no literature on the subject; Medline drew a blank on the disorder cross-referenced with tattoo. Neither subject alone yielded less than a thousand references. I finally plowed through all the titles under tattoos, and found hundreds of articles on dermatology, and a few scattered words about risk taking in adolescents, but nothing else.
I spent some time sending E-mail to psychiatrists in other countries. Dr. K, in Tokyo, kindly sent me an English language book on the art of Japanese tattoos, and I began to re-learn my old errors. I have posted mail to a number of tattoo artists, and done telephone interviews with several, including Kris Sperry, M.D., the physician who serves as Medical Consultant to the Alliance of Professional Tattooists, and who helped set the standards for licensure by that organization. I even rented and watched a movie. I will summarize my experiences below:
The process of injecting colored pigments under the skin has existed for most of human history. Egyptian tombs with drawings of tattooed people and archeological statuary with clear artificial lines on the skin exist, as do long standing customs among ancient peoples, and date back at least 12,000 years before Christ. By 2,000 BC, the art had spread to China. Many of the older reasons have been lost forever. We can only assume that some of the more modern reasons indicate their previous use. Throughout most of the world, skin markings identified social class, marital availability, beauty, skill as a warrior or crafts man (or woman), or status as a slave or criminal. The Danes, Norse, and Saxons used tattoos to identify family symbols and crests. In the Far East, with Pictographic Writing, many people chose phrases of dedication to Buddha or a lover, rather than an actual drawing. All of these have varied with time and culture.
However, the Christian Bible, in Leviticus 19:28, specifically says You shall not... tattoo any marks upon you. Bowing to this, Pope Hadrian, in AD 787, banned the art. It survived in Britain until the Norman conquests in 1066. King Harold died at the hands of William, and his body was identified by the word Edith tattooed over his heart. Thus exited skin art from Western culture for many centuries, Though Marco Polo described Tattoos on some Chinese he met.
In Japan, things took a different path. Early on, forehead marks there signified criminals. Some sources say these were uniform, while others describe variations from city to city. This punishment was severe in that ostracism remains even now a more powerful punishment than in the West, due to different values on family ties. Whatever the history, in more recent times, reaction to strict sumptuary laws imposed by the harsh Tokugawa government that allowed only royalty to wear embroidered clothing caused a change. The wealthy middle classes began to wear kimonos with brocade on the inside, but the poor began to flaunt the laws and wear full tattooed body suits.
In 1691 an English explorer named Dampier brought the first tattooed South Sea Islander to London, and a city that had not seen such art forms for 600 years looked with fascination. Captain Cook brought more, and introduced the sideshow to the Royalty. Soon this expensive and painful process became a mark of wealth for the crowned heads of European society. Japanese artists cost the most, and so were most desired. Among those known to have had tattoos are King George V, Winston Churchill s mother, King Oscar of Sweden, and Grand Duke Alexis of Russia.
Technology forces change in any time, and in 1891 the first electric tattoo needle made the process much cheaper and faster. That lead to popularity among lower classes, and subsequent abandonment by the rich. The public fascination with heavily marked skin created a market for circus freaks to collect fees for displaying their works, leading to further definition of this as a pseudo-art only for freaks and sailors.
In 1955 Robert Mitchum starred in a movie named the Night of the Hunter. In this, he plays a sociopathic traveling preacher (and serial killer) who has LOVE on his left hand and HATE on his right. He even uses them in a brief sermon about the struggle between the two forces. As best I can determine, this originated with that movie, and all the copy-cats I have seen since simply mimicked his image. Sideshow Bob in the TV cartoon series The Simpsons, has only 3 fingers per hand, and has LUV and HAT tattoos (with an umlat over the 'a' as homage to Mitchum. Sailors in the days of tall ships often got tattoos on their hands that said HOLD and FAST on their fingers, either as a totem or a reminder. (I've heard rumors of college athletes with TGIF on their feet, to remind them toes go in first. )
In order to look for this stain of sociopathy, I conducted a poll of local jail staff (in a city of 100,000). I specifically asked 2 RN s, with three and six years of experience working in the jail, respectively, if they had noted the love-hate tattoos. Neither remembered seeing this at any time. Two guards with less than three years work history each had also not seen this specific tattoo. I also polled my peers at the Forensic Hospital where I work. We serve a state of 3.5 million people. Among 3 PhD Forensic psychologists, who had worked 9, 5, and two years, respectively, the specific mark had been seen, but in only a few vaguely remembered instances. Two forensic psychiatrists, including myself, with careers that spanned more than 20 years each, could only identify perhaps a dozen such patients. Obviously, then, these specific marks betray neither historic nor frequent behaviors.
By 1961, hepatitis outbreaks led New York City and the State of Massachusetts to ban this work. These regulations continue in force as well as in Indiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Ocean City, MD. Ft Lauderdale and Jacksonville Beach, FL have laws requiring a physician on site when tattooing occurs. The Alliance of Professional Tattooists arose in an effort to self-regulate, and promote standards of hygiene and professionalism. As an aside, the CDC has never reported a case of AIDS related to tattoo needles, even those done in non-sterile conditions.
Also in the 1960s, the counter-culture blossomed, and products of that led such stars as Joan Baez, Janis Joplin, and Cher to have their own personal skin art. Many stars of music and screen and professional athletes today display tattoos (including Sean Connery, Melanie Griffith,Michael Jordon, and Drew Barrymore.) In Japan, however, the tattoo has remained highly stylized, with only a small number of elaborate forms existing. almost all based on a few specific legends. There, rather than to identify oneself as unique as in the West, one gets a tattoo to become a member of a select group and to conform. The Japanese Mafia also have a set of tattoos for their members.
In the West, two primary forms of tattoos exist; professional and jail-house. The latter are done crudely, often out of boredom, and also as marks to signify membership in a gang, certain crimes, etc. The New York State Police appear to have one of the most complete books of these variations, though I have not personally inspected a copy.
A quote from William De Michele, who published The Illustrated Woman in 1992, sticks with me as appropriate: Tattoos signify commitment. As permanent marks, they generally indicate some personal transition of significance. Often this relates to efforts to gain or regain control of one's life. [for example a woman who went through a divorce and wanted to make her body different from anything her husband had ever seen.] Even avid artists tend to place them in areas that can be covered or shown at will, much like a woman lawyer wearing black lace garters under her clothes in Court, something about which only she or someone she chooses to tell, knows. Tattoos on the hands or face much more frequently mean major events, such as a rejection of society totally, or membership in some tight group such as a prison or street gang.
Conclusion:
So for the psychiatrist who sees a tattoo: Note if it is amateur or professional. Ask about it. It may, like the interpretation of a dream, lead to highly symbolic information. Don t assume any particular psychopathology without more data, and remember the use of these has had many meanings to many people for thousands of years. Any particular view you hold is probably culturally bound and time-limited.
http://www.priory.com/tattoo.htm
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tattoo in Chinese Minorities
The Chinese Drung and Dai minorities have tattoo customs inherited from their ancestors.
Among the Drung ethnic minority, women have tattoos on their faces. In the past, girls were tattooed when they turned 12 or 13 as a symbol of maturity.
First, an old woman would dip a bamboo slip into sooty water and draw on the girl's face, then beat a thorn into the skin with a small stick in the designed area, and fill the pricked spots with soot. When scabs formed, a dark blue design was left on the face, The tattoo was drawn between the two eyebrows and around the mouth in diamond shape and on the cheek with dots, forming a flying butterfly design.
This form of tattooing is popular in the upper reaches of the Drung River. Along the lower reaches, the tattoos are simpler, with two or three lines on the lower jaw.
The Drung minority tattoo originated from the late Ming Dynasty about 350 years ago. At that time, the Drung people were usually attacked by other ethnic groups, and women were captured as slaves. To avoid being raped, the Drung women tattooed their faces to make themselves less attractive and, thus, protect themselves. It was a tragedy. Though the Drung women are not threatened by other minorities now, they retain their tattoo custom, and it has become a symbol of maturity for Drung women.
tattoo on back
tattoo on the back
a Drung woman
a Drung woman with tattoo on face
Tattooing is also an ancient custom of the Dai people, and can still be found in some remote villages in the Dai inhabited area or among some old Dai people.
Both men and women were tattooed according to the Dai custom, men on the strong muscles and women on the back of hand, arm or between the eyebrows.
In old times, the Dai Children had designs pricked into their skin when they were 5 or 6, for it was said to be the best age. Later, they were tattooed at 14 or 15 as a symbol of reaching maturity.
There are no fixed designs in Dai tattoo, most preferring tiger or dragon designs drawn in black with black plant juice.
The Dai people have a long tattoo history. In ancient times, they lived by the river and were often hit by strange monsters. Later they discovered that a black skin could keep the monster away, and they began to tattoo themselves in this way to prevent attacks.
As time went on, tattooing lost its original function and has become a symbol of the boldness and bravery of men and the beauty of women. Now, tattoos are drawn on the back of the hands in octagonal flower design, and a dot is tattooed between the eyebrows of girls, symbolizing their beauty. With these tattoos, the Dai people can easily recognize their ethnic friends even when they are not wearing their minority costums.
http://www.chinavista.com/experience/tattoo/tattoo.html
Among the Drung ethnic minority, women have tattoos on their faces. In the past, girls were tattooed when they turned 12 or 13 as a symbol of maturity.
First, an old woman would dip a bamboo slip into sooty water and draw on the girl's face, then beat a thorn into the skin with a small stick in the designed area, and fill the pricked spots with soot. When scabs formed, a dark blue design was left on the face, The tattoo was drawn between the two eyebrows and around the mouth in diamond shape and on the cheek with dots, forming a flying butterfly design.
This form of tattooing is popular in the upper reaches of the Drung River. Along the lower reaches, the tattoos are simpler, with two or three lines on the lower jaw.
The Drung minority tattoo originated from the late Ming Dynasty about 350 years ago. At that time, the Drung people were usually attacked by other ethnic groups, and women were captured as slaves. To avoid being raped, the Drung women tattooed their faces to make themselves less attractive and, thus, protect themselves. It was a tragedy. Though the Drung women are not threatened by other minorities now, they retain their tattoo custom, and it has become a symbol of maturity for Drung women.
tattoo on back
tattoo on the back
a Drung woman
a Drung woman with tattoo on face
Tattooing is also an ancient custom of the Dai people, and can still be found in some remote villages in the Dai inhabited area or among some old Dai people.
Both men and women were tattooed according to the Dai custom, men on the strong muscles and women on the back of hand, arm or between the eyebrows.
In old times, the Dai Children had designs pricked into their skin when they were 5 or 6, for it was said to be the best age. Later, they were tattooed at 14 or 15 as a symbol of reaching maturity.
There are no fixed designs in Dai tattoo, most preferring tiger or dragon designs drawn in black with black plant juice.
The Dai people have a long tattoo history. In ancient times, they lived by the river and were often hit by strange monsters. Later they discovered that a black skin could keep the monster away, and they began to tattoo themselves in this way to prevent attacks.
As time went on, tattooing lost its original function and has become a symbol of the boldness and bravery of men and the beauty of women. Now, tattoos are drawn on the back of the hands in octagonal flower design, and a dot is tattooed between the eyebrows of girls, symbolizing their beauty. With these tattoos, the Dai people can easily recognize their ethnic friends even when they are not wearing their minority costums.
http://www.chinavista.com/experience/tattoo/tattoo.html
Tattoo shop 'draws' students, grandmas
Ever since Don Ohlsen was a kid, he has been intrigued by tattoos.
"I was fascinated by it. I would see dads and grandfathers with their World War II tattoos, and I thought it was a fascinating art form," Ohlsen said.
Because of this, Ohlsen has transformed his curiosity into an occupation.
The result is Flyin' Gypsy Tattoo and Piercing Studios, located in Magnolia Place in downtown Auburn.
It opened for business in November 1995 and has two full-time tattoo artists, one part-time artist, one apprentice artist and two piercers on staff.
Originally from Connecticut, Ohlsen moved to Florida to work in a tattoo shop. When he came to visit relatives in Auburn, he thought it was "a nice, little college town," which prompted him to open a studio.
According to Ohlsen, this decision was a good one.
"The students are real hip. They gave us their approval and made us feel welcome from the start," Ohlsen said.
At first, the clients were mainly students. But now Ohlsen sees a more diverse range of people, including professionals and blue-collar workers.
ELIOTT C. McLAUGHLIN
Intrigue Editor
Even senior citizens have shown an interest.
"I recently tattooed a grandma.
She got three stars on her ankle for each of her grandchildren," Ohlsen said.
When asked about the current popularity of tattoos and piercing, Ohlsen said, "It's getting more mainstream. Everyone is getting a lot bigger and bolder. That's the thing I think people are shocked by."
For those people who doubt the safety of tattoos and piercing, the Flyin' Gypsy uses new "single-use" needles that are opened in front of the customer. All the equipment is "steam sterilized" through a process called Autoclave, the same type used in hospitals.
Ohlsen said he hopes the business will grow and include more customer input.
"I would like to see it keep expanding and have more people come in with their own customized designs," Ohlsen said.
http://www.auburn.edu/student_info/plainsman/archives/96FA/0924/intrigue.html
"I was fascinated by it. I would see dads and grandfathers with their World War II tattoos, and I thought it was a fascinating art form," Ohlsen said.
Because of this, Ohlsen has transformed his curiosity into an occupation.
The result is Flyin' Gypsy Tattoo and Piercing Studios, located in Magnolia Place in downtown Auburn.
It opened for business in November 1995 and has two full-time tattoo artists, one part-time artist, one apprentice artist and two piercers on staff.
Originally from Connecticut, Ohlsen moved to Florida to work in a tattoo shop. When he came to visit relatives in Auburn, he thought it was "a nice, little college town," which prompted him to open a studio.
According to Ohlsen, this decision was a good one.
"The students are real hip. They gave us their approval and made us feel welcome from the start," Ohlsen said.
At first, the clients were mainly students. But now Ohlsen sees a more diverse range of people, including professionals and blue-collar workers.
ELIOTT C. McLAUGHLIN
Intrigue Editor
Even senior citizens have shown an interest.
"I recently tattooed a grandma.
She got three stars on her ankle for each of her grandchildren," Ohlsen said.
When asked about the current popularity of tattoos and piercing, Ohlsen said, "It's getting more mainstream. Everyone is getting a lot bigger and bolder. That's the thing I think people are shocked by."
For those people who doubt the safety of tattoos and piercing, the Flyin' Gypsy uses new "single-use" needles that are opened in front of the customer. All the equipment is "steam sterilized" through a process called Autoclave, the same type used in hospitals.
Ohlsen said he hopes the business will grow and include more customer input.
"I would like to see it keep expanding and have more people come in with their own customized designs," Ohlsen said.
http://www.auburn.edu/student_info/plainsman/archives/96FA/0924/intrigue.html
Cool Henna Design Tattoos
One of the coolest displays and of art that I have seen was henna design. No, really. It was really cool on nature and was utilized in the form of giving a tattoo. Tattooing is simply using what nature has to offer and using his is a form of expression on the human body. In many cases the natural ingredient ink. But there is something so quaint and ethereal about henna design that I find to be simply breathtaking.
The first time I had the opportunity to see henna design in action was during my trip to Rajasthan, India. It was quite an exotic odyssey. The state is located in the desert and is known for its large community fairs. It is a central meeting point when from the neighboring villages gather to celebrate and they can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The longer the duration, the bigger the fair. And the bigger the fair, the more mammoth the attendance.
I was there for the Fall fair. It was a four-day event and the energy there was absolutely astounding. The people were simple and their wants simpler. The colors and spirit found was something that never before even remotely have come close to seeing. This is where I saw my first henna design, and I must say it was quite impressive.
I happened to notice the henna design as I was walking around the fair trying to capture the color of all that I saw. I saw two women sitting on the on ground and were totally engrossed in their task. When I moved closerFree Articles, I saw that it was a henna artist and that she was applying one of the finest henna designs I have ever witnessed.
I just kind of stood there in a daze admiring her work in launching a much joy she spread by artfully sketching her henna designs on people's hands. It was a very simple operation and there were not a lot of implements require for her to create her art. Just a tube of henna and her active imagination. She had a book of designs that the customers can browse through to choose one they wanted. And she would set to work to draw the design in all its glory on their hands.
That's all that I needed to give me hooked on the art of henna designs. Now I'm actually compiling a book of henna designs. Guess who is going to be on the cover? My henna design muse of course! She is the perfect choice and I'm thrilled to include her.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning lifestyle. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Henna Design Tattoos
The first time I had the opportunity to see henna design in action was during my trip to Rajasthan, India. It was quite an exotic odyssey. The state is located in the desert and is known for its large community fairs. It is a central meeting point when from the neighboring villages gather to celebrate and they can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The longer the duration, the bigger the fair. And the bigger the fair, the more mammoth the attendance.
I was there for the Fall fair. It was a four-day event and the energy there was absolutely astounding. The people were simple and their wants simpler. The colors and spirit found was something that never before even remotely have come close to seeing. This is where I saw my first henna design, and I must say it was quite impressive.
I happened to notice the henna design as I was walking around the fair trying to capture the color of all that I saw. I saw two women sitting on the on ground and were totally engrossed in their task. When I moved closerFree Articles, I saw that it was a henna artist and that she was applying one of the finest henna designs I have ever witnessed.
I just kind of stood there in a daze admiring her work in launching a much joy she spread by artfully sketching her henna designs on people's hands. It was a very simple operation and there were not a lot of implements require for her to create her art. Just a tube of henna and her active imagination. She had a book of designs that the customers can browse through to choose one they wanted. And she would set to work to draw the design in all its glory on their hands.
That's all that I needed to give me hooked on the art of henna designs. Now I'm actually compiling a book of henna designs. Guess who is going to be on the cover? My henna design muse of course! She is the perfect choice and I'm thrilled to include her.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning lifestyle. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Henna Design Tattoos
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
FAQ About Tattoos
Q: Will it hurt when I get a tattoo?
A: Simply put, yes. There is some degree of pain involved and the amount really depends on your level of tolerance. If you are scared or have a fear of needles, it’s fair to say that some of the pain will come from your fear of the process.
Q: Can the tattoo artist use any type of cream that will numb my skin?
A: Generally speaking, these products are not recommended. You can ask your tattoo artist for specific reasons.
Q: Are tattoos expensive?
A: If it is quality work, yes. Anyone can offer you a deal on a cheap tattoo, but this is going to be a permanent part of your body and you want the work to be something that you are proud of. In a nutshell, you will get what you pay for. When it comes to tattoos, don’t cut any corners when it comes to cost and never ask the artist to lower his/her price.
Q: When should I get a tattoo?
A: Many do not realize this, but the sunny months of summer can reek havoc on a tattoo. Therefore, it is often recommended that individuals get tattooed during the winter months when the sun’s rays are not as powerful and, therefore, not as damaging to the work itself.
Q: If I am sick, is it still OK for me to get a tattoo?
A: If your immune system is not 100%, getting a tattoo is probably not a good idea. You will need the full strength of your immune system to help with the healing process of your skin, so avoid the process if you are under the weather. Instead, call to reschedule your appointment for a later date when you will be feeling better.
Q: If I have tattoos, is it still OK to get a natural suntan or visit the tanning bed?
A: Even though everyone desires the perfect sunkissed tan, especially in the summer, exposing your tattoo to UV rays/light is not a good idea. This can cause the color in your tattoo, or the artwork itself, to fade. When you are outside in the sun, you can wear sunblock to help protect your tattoo from the sun’s damaging rays.
Q: If I have recently gotten a tattoo on my leg, when can I shave again?
A: Because each individual’s healing process is unique, there is no universal answer to this question. Your tattoo is a wound and, like all wounds, it needs to heal before you can safely resume shaving. Otherwise, you will continually aggravate the scab or any raised areas that are present on almost every tattoo. Some can resume shaving within 5-10 days, which is often when the new protective layer of skin has surfaced after the final peeling stage. It is best to ask the tattoo artist about the exact stages of the healing process and what to watch for as an indicator of when you can begin shaving again.
Q: I have a friend who recently purchased a tattoo kit and they promised me a really good deal. Is this safe?
A: Absolutely not. Your friend could very well be endangering your health by ‘practicing’ their skill on you. In order to become a professional tattoo artist, an individual needs to get the proper apprenticeship through a tattoo studio, observe the process and begin practicing on material objects before tattooing people. The apprenticeship usually takes 3-5 years, so there is no way that this type of knowledge can be learned in a kit.
Q: Can I remove the bandage after I get a tattoo so that I can show my friends?
A: This is not a good idea. The bandage is there because the tattoo artist realized the potential for infection if the wound were to be exposed to open air. Leave the bandage on according to the instructions from the tattoo artist.
DISCLAIMER: This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. Before deciding on getting a tattoo or having one removed, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for medical advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual healthcare needs.
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/FAQ-About-Tattoos/9324
A: Simply put, yes. There is some degree of pain involved and the amount really depends on your level of tolerance. If you are scared or have a fear of needles, it’s fair to say that some of the pain will come from your fear of the process.
Q: Can the tattoo artist use any type of cream that will numb my skin?
A: Generally speaking, these products are not recommended. You can ask your tattoo artist for specific reasons.
Q: Are tattoos expensive?
A: If it is quality work, yes. Anyone can offer you a deal on a cheap tattoo, but this is going to be a permanent part of your body and you want the work to be something that you are proud of. In a nutshell, you will get what you pay for. When it comes to tattoos, don’t cut any corners when it comes to cost and never ask the artist to lower his/her price.
Q: When should I get a tattoo?
A: Many do not realize this, but the sunny months of summer can reek havoc on a tattoo. Therefore, it is often recommended that individuals get tattooed during the winter months when the sun’s rays are not as powerful and, therefore, not as damaging to the work itself.
Q: If I am sick, is it still OK for me to get a tattoo?
A: If your immune system is not 100%, getting a tattoo is probably not a good idea. You will need the full strength of your immune system to help with the healing process of your skin, so avoid the process if you are under the weather. Instead, call to reschedule your appointment for a later date when you will be feeling better.
Q: If I have tattoos, is it still OK to get a natural suntan or visit the tanning bed?
A: Even though everyone desires the perfect sunkissed tan, especially in the summer, exposing your tattoo to UV rays/light is not a good idea. This can cause the color in your tattoo, or the artwork itself, to fade. When you are outside in the sun, you can wear sunblock to help protect your tattoo from the sun’s damaging rays.
Q: If I have recently gotten a tattoo on my leg, when can I shave again?
A: Because each individual’s healing process is unique, there is no universal answer to this question. Your tattoo is a wound and, like all wounds, it needs to heal before you can safely resume shaving. Otherwise, you will continually aggravate the scab or any raised areas that are present on almost every tattoo. Some can resume shaving within 5-10 days, which is often when the new protective layer of skin has surfaced after the final peeling stage. It is best to ask the tattoo artist about the exact stages of the healing process and what to watch for as an indicator of when you can begin shaving again.
Q: I have a friend who recently purchased a tattoo kit and they promised me a really good deal. Is this safe?
A: Absolutely not. Your friend could very well be endangering your health by ‘practicing’ their skill on you. In order to become a professional tattoo artist, an individual needs to get the proper apprenticeship through a tattoo studio, observe the process and begin practicing on material objects before tattooing people. The apprenticeship usually takes 3-5 years, so there is no way that this type of knowledge can be learned in a kit.
Q: Can I remove the bandage after I get a tattoo so that I can show my friends?
A: This is not a good idea. The bandage is there because the tattoo artist realized the potential for infection if the wound were to be exposed to open air. Leave the bandage on according to the instructions from the tattoo artist.
DISCLAIMER: This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. Before deciding on getting a tattoo or having one removed, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for medical advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual healthcare needs.
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/FAQ-About-Tattoos/9324
Sources for Free Tattoo Ideas and Tattoo Design Ideas
Have you been wanting to get a tattoo but don't have an exact idea or not sure what you want? Tattoos are so popular and there are so many ideas but many of us feel stuck at times on the exact tattoo we want to get. For me I often feel stuck when I think of how permanent a tattoo is. I see a lot of cool designs that I like at the time but when I start thinking about the having it permanently done I start to change my mind and look for something else.
Others have the idea or rough plan of what they want but they can't find any good source material or flash that matches what they want. Some of our customers state that they have spent months looking for a certain tattoo design. They look through all of the flash sites and etc. but still can not find what they are looking for.
This is a huge problem, you end up wasting a lot of time and feeling frustrated. However there are some simple ways around this problem.
1. First you should always pull ideas for tattoos from things that you like or are into. Don't go and get a tattoo just because you saw someone with one and you thought he or she was cool. A tattoo will be with you forever and so it should be something from you not from outside. Along these lines don't do the stupid thing of going out to get a tattoo with a friend and be pressured into getting the same thing he or she gets just because you don't want to look stupid. Tattoos are permanent and therefore should state something about you and what you love. Therefore if you spend time just thinking about the things you like and things that you identify yourself with you are likely to come up with some great ideas. For example for me I love being outdoor and nature and so I like star tattoos a lot and nature themes. I also like a lot of the native American and traditional Japanese designs. My wife is from Japan and she has this plan of getting a Cherry tree branch full of cherry blossoms across her back. These are very significant images for the Japanese. They symbolizes the new year and new life or even r
enewal of life. So as you can see your tattoo should be something you identify with.
2. Once you have some rough ideas it is typically time to go online and look for some images. Now lets take the Cherry blossom for example. Some place you could look for a tattoo would be clip art. You can search using Google's image search feature or go to Microsoft online clipart gallery. Either place you can find either a clip art drawn piece or actual source photos. Both will lead you to some good source materials that will help in the design stage.
3. Next you want to take you source materials (photos or clip art) and show them to a tattoo artists. You might also try some initial sketches if you are artistically inclined. Even something with simple line art or pigeon scratches can tell you tattoo artists a lot about what you are looking for. So take everything you got and show it to your tattoo artist and then let them design the tattoo for you. Remember the more accurate and detailed you can be with your description the more happy you are going to be with the results and the whole process will be much easier.
4. Most tattoo artists will then provide you with an actual design shaded in and with color and the line art of the design. If you are getting this done online then you can take that to your local tattoo parlor and find some one to do the actual tattoo for you. Often you can also ask for referrals from the original tattoo artists. Typically they can do the work themselves if you live within driving range.
If you take these steps into consideration and actually do a little bit of homework and find your source materials and provide lots of details about what you are looking for then you are sure to get the design of your dreams.
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Sources-for-Free-Tattoo-Ideas-and-Tattoo-Design-Ideas/15583
Others have the idea or rough plan of what they want but they can't find any good source material or flash that matches what they want. Some of our customers state that they have spent months looking for a certain tattoo design. They look through all of the flash sites and etc. but still can not find what they are looking for.
This is a huge problem, you end up wasting a lot of time and feeling frustrated. However there are some simple ways around this problem.
1. First you should always pull ideas for tattoos from things that you like or are into. Don't go and get a tattoo just because you saw someone with one and you thought he or she was cool. A tattoo will be with you forever and so it should be something from you not from outside. Along these lines don't do the stupid thing of going out to get a tattoo with a friend and be pressured into getting the same thing he or she gets just because you don't want to look stupid. Tattoos are permanent and therefore should state something about you and what you love. Therefore if you spend time just thinking about the things you like and things that you identify yourself with you are likely to come up with some great ideas. For example for me I love being outdoor and nature and so I like star tattoos a lot and nature themes. I also like a lot of the native American and traditional Japanese designs. My wife is from Japan and she has this plan of getting a Cherry tree branch full of cherry blossoms across her back. These are very significant images for the Japanese. They symbolizes the new year and new life or even r
enewal of life. So as you can see your tattoo should be something you identify with.
2. Once you have some rough ideas it is typically time to go online and look for some images. Now lets take the Cherry blossom for example. Some place you could look for a tattoo would be clip art. You can search using Google's image search feature or go to Microsoft online clipart gallery. Either place you can find either a clip art drawn piece or actual source photos. Both will lead you to some good source materials that will help in the design stage.
3. Next you want to take you source materials (photos or clip art) and show them to a tattoo artists. You might also try some initial sketches if you are artistically inclined. Even something with simple line art or pigeon scratches can tell you tattoo artists a lot about what you are looking for. So take everything you got and show it to your tattoo artist and then let them design the tattoo for you. Remember the more accurate and detailed you can be with your description the more happy you are going to be with the results and the whole process will be much easier.
4. Most tattoo artists will then provide you with an actual design shaded in and with color and the line art of the design. If you are getting this done online then you can take that to your local tattoo parlor and find some one to do the actual tattoo for you. Often you can also ask for referrals from the original tattoo artists. Typically they can do the work themselves if you live within driving range.
If you take these steps into consideration and actually do a little bit of homework and find your source materials and provide lots of details about what you are looking for then you are sure to get the design of your dreams.
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Sources-for-Free-Tattoo-Ideas-and-Tattoo-Design-Ideas/15583
Nautical Star Tattoos the History, Meaning and Symbolism: a Strange Mix
The history, meaning and symbolism of nautical star tattoos is a hotly debated topic. Today many different groups have adopted the Nautical star tattoo as a symbol for their own movement and they have all ascribed their own meaning and history to the symbol. Thus has lead to a wide disagreement as the the meaning of the tattoo.
Historically most everyone agrees that Sailors were the first people to get nautical star tattoos. In fact the very word nautical relates back to sailing. So this connection has been pretty firmly established. Most people would agree the sailors were a pretty superstitious group historically and sailor lore abounds with superstitious and fantastical stories of life and death and being lost at sea. Early on sailors navigated by the stars at night and the north star became the symbol for finding ones way home. Once you know where the north star is you can point your ship in the right direction to get home. So the star became a symbol for finding ones way home or more symbolically even finding ones path in life. Therefore many sailors would tattoo nautical stars on their forearms as a good luck symbol in hopes of returning home.
However their modern day meaning is a more debated topic. Many believe that groups including gay and lesbians, punk rockers and those in the military have adopted the nautical star tattoo as a very important symbol. The diversity of these three groups has lead many to argue the meaning of their tattoos.
For the military the connection is pretty obviously point back to the early sailors and the symbolism and meaning is the same as the early sailors. Many military people get a nautical star tattoo as a symbol for finding ones path home safely. Of course this can also include more symbolically just finding ones way in life.
Here is a quote we found from a member of the armed services and his interpretation of the tattoo:
"I am in the United States Army, an MP who searched towns and villages for Al Quida and insurgents. I was in Iraq for 1 year. I have a red and black nautical star on my wrist. The reason I got it was because when I was out there, I felt it was a guide to guide me home to my family safely. I got it so that it would remind me that I am going to make it to see my son grow up. I am not gay, it doesn't matter what you believe it represents, it means something different for everyone. Out in the desert, I would look up at the stars and think about home. So anyone can think what they want to, that is what it means to me. "
Punk rockers have also adopted this as a popular symbol to have tattooed. The punk movement traces its history and use of the nautical star tattoo back to Sailor Jerry. Sailor Jerry is historically one one of the most famous tattoo artists ever. He was well known for his innovative and "cool" designs. Punks have taken this symbol and it has very much the same meaning of finding one way in life. Being the rugged
individualists type Punks are drawing to the symbolism of true north and finding one own unique way in life. So the Nautical star has become a symbol for this. You see many punk bands that have full sleeve tattoos typically incorporate nautical star tattoos either on their elbows or elsewhere.
The lesbian and gay connection is the one that does not seem so obvious at first. Historically back in the 1940's and 50's when alternative lifestyles were not the norm and often women had to hide their alternative choices they would sport a hidden nautical star. Often they would get the star tattoo done on the inside of their wrist where it could easily be hidden by a watch during the day but shown off in the evening when out on the town. Today many lesbians where the nautical star tattoo to show their connection with their early pioneering sisters. Here is a little evidence to support my points.
"Here's the passage (with some pieces dropped) from "Boots of Leather, Slippers of Gold: The History of a Lesbian Community" by Elizabeth Lapovsky Kennedy and Madeilne D. Davis copyright 1993 p. 189.
(talking about the 1940's and 1950's):
"...During this same time period, the cultural push to be identified as lesbians- or at least different- all the time was so powerful that it generated a new form of identification among the tough bar lesbians: a star tattoo on the top of the wrist, which was usually covered by a watch. This was the first symbol of community identity that did not rely on butch-fem imagery. We can trace this phenomenon back to an evening of revelry in the late 1950's, when a few butches trooped over to "Dirty Dick's" tattoo parlor on Chippewa Street and had the tiny blue five-pointed star put on their wrists. Later, some of the fems of this group also go the idea one night and did it...The community views the tattoo as a definite mark of identification..."the Buffalo police knew [that] the people that had the stars on their wrist were lesbians and they had their names and so forth. That it was an identity thing with the gay community, with the lesbian community". The fact that the star tattoo was created by those who were firmly into roles, in fact by the group that was considered the butchy butches and their fems, suggest that the force to assert lesbian identity was strong enough to break through the existing traditions of boldness based in butch-fem roles. The stars presage the methods of identity created by gay liberation. In fact, the mark has become something of a tradition in local circles and has seen a revival since the 1970s."
This meaning of the symbol has of course created a lot of problems and arguments among the other two groups of bearers of nautical stars. Most puck and military people do not want to have a nautical star that points back to anything from the lesbian movement so many will say that there is no connection there and this is false.
Here is a quote from another armed forces member about the symbolism of the nautical star among the gay community:
"This "gay symbol" is a load of hooey that someone made up VERY recently. The nautical star tattoo has been around nearly as long as tattooing itself. The late Celts (or early Irish, depending on your view of World History) were said to have been the first to have the tattoos, although evidence of it being used on ships in Spain has been found pre-dating the Irish claim.
As a Marine, it's a very commonplace symbol amongst us if we have been part of a Boat Raid company, red for port, green for starboard on varying parts of the body. On ship, I saw about a million different variations on the Sailors I was was serving with, obviously harking back to the sailor roots."
Here is a quote from a punk rocker and his feelings about the symbolism of the tattoo:
"what idiots..even the military boys dont know what it really means....JUST SO YOU ALL KNOW!!!!!it was used by OLD sailors.. and the symbol represents North on a Map ...and it is the North Star the sailors would use it as a baring to get home....you can find it on Really really old maps and old navy vessels... Punk Rock.. well we use it because we can and because Sailor Jerry made the coolest tattoos who started putting them on everyone.. my grandfather even had one thus being used as a traditional icon"
It just goes to show that when the same powerful symbol is used over and over again over decades of time it can taken on very different meanings for different groups. So all of those that you see sporting a nautical star tattoo might not all have the same interpretation of its symbolism.
So do you have a nautical star tattoo or think about getting one in the future? Which meaning of the symbol will you get the nautical star for? As long as you know what the symbolism behind the star is for and you have gotten it for the right reason to either support the lesbian movement or as a symbol to finding your way!
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Nautical-Star-Tattoos-the-History--Meaning-and-Symbolism--a-Strange-Mix/19503
Historically most everyone agrees that Sailors were the first people to get nautical star tattoos. In fact the very word nautical relates back to sailing. So this connection has been pretty firmly established. Most people would agree the sailors were a pretty superstitious group historically and sailor lore abounds with superstitious and fantastical stories of life and death and being lost at sea. Early on sailors navigated by the stars at night and the north star became the symbol for finding ones way home. Once you know where the north star is you can point your ship in the right direction to get home. So the star became a symbol for finding ones way home or more symbolically even finding ones path in life. Therefore many sailors would tattoo nautical stars on their forearms as a good luck symbol in hopes of returning home.
However their modern day meaning is a more debated topic. Many believe that groups including gay and lesbians, punk rockers and those in the military have adopted the nautical star tattoo as a very important symbol. The diversity of these three groups has lead many to argue the meaning of their tattoos.
For the military the connection is pretty obviously point back to the early sailors and the symbolism and meaning is the same as the early sailors. Many military people get a nautical star tattoo as a symbol for finding ones path home safely. Of course this can also include more symbolically just finding ones way in life.
Here is a quote we found from a member of the armed services and his interpretation of the tattoo:
"I am in the United States Army, an MP who searched towns and villages for Al Quida and insurgents. I was in Iraq for 1 year. I have a red and black nautical star on my wrist. The reason I got it was because when I was out there, I felt it was a guide to guide me home to my family safely. I got it so that it would remind me that I am going to make it to see my son grow up. I am not gay, it doesn't matter what you believe it represents, it means something different for everyone. Out in the desert, I would look up at the stars and think about home. So anyone can think what they want to, that is what it means to me. "
Punk rockers have also adopted this as a popular symbol to have tattooed. The punk movement traces its history and use of the nautical star tattoo back to Sailor Jerry. Sailor Jerry is historically one one of the most famous tattoo artists ever. He was well known for his innovative and "cool" designs. Punks have taken this symbol and it has very much the same meaning of finding one way in life. Being the rugged
individualists type Punks are drawing to the symbolism of true north and finding one own unique way in life. So the Nautical star has become a symbol for this. You see many punk bands that have full sleeve tattoos typically incorporate nautical star tattoos either on their elbows or elsewhere.
The lesbian and gay connection is the one that does not seem so obvious at first. Historically back in the 1940's and 50's when alternative lifestyles were not the norm and often women had to hide their alternative choices they would sport a hidden nautical star. Often they would get the star tattoo done on the inside of their wrist where it could easily be hidden by a watch during the day but shown off in the evening when out on the town. Today many lesbians where the nautical star tattoo to show their connection with their early pioneering sisters. Here is a little evidence to support my points.
"Here's the passage (with some pieces dropped) from "Boots of Leather, Slippers of Gold: The History of a Lesbian Community" by Elizabeth Lapovsky Kennedy and Madeilne D. Davis copyright 1993 p. 189.
(talking about the 1940's and 1950's):
"...During this same time period, the cultural push to be identified as lesbians- or at least different- all the time was so powerful that it generated a new form of identification among the tough bar lesbians: a star tattoo on the top of the wrist, which was usually covered by a watch. This was the first symbol of community identity that did not rely on butch-fem imagery. We can trace this phenomenon back to an evening of revelry in the late 1950's, when a few butches trooped over to "Dirty Dick's" tattoo parlor on Chippewa Street and had the tiny blue five-pointed star put on their wrists. Later, some of the fems of this group also go the idea one night and did it...The community views the tattoo as a definite mark of identification..."the Buffalo police knew [that] the people that had the stars on their wrist were lesbians and they had their names and so forth. That it was an identity thing with the gay community, with the lesbian community". The fact that the star tattoo was created by those who were firmly into roles, in fact by the group that was considered the butchy butches and their fems, suggest that the force to assert lesbian identity was strong enough to break through the existing traditions of boldness based in butch-fem roles. The stars presage the methods of identity created by gay liberation. In fact, the mark has become something of a tradition in local circles and has seen a revival since the 1970s."
This meaning of the symbol has of course created a lot of problems and arguments among the other two groups of bearers of nautical stars. Most puck and military people do not want to have a nautical star that points back to anything from the lesbian movement so many will say that there is no connection there and this is false.
Here is a quote from another armed forces member about the symbolism of the nautical star among the gay community:
"This "gay symbol" is a load of hooey that someone made up VERY recently. The nautical star tattoo has been around nearly as long as tattooing itself. The late Celts (or early Irish, depending on your view of World History) were said to have been the first to have the tattoos, although evidence of it being used on ships in Spain has been found pre-dating the Irish claim.
As a Marine, it's a very commonplace symbol amongst us if we have been part of a Boat Raid company, red for port, green for starboard on varying parts of the body. On ship, I saw about a million different variations on the Sailors I was was serving with, obviously harking back to the sailor roots."
Here is a quote from a punk rocker and his feelings about the symbolism of the tattoo:
"what idiots..even the military boys dont know what it really means....JUST SO YOU ALL KNOW!!!!!it was used by OLD sailors.. and the symbol represents North on a Map ...and it is the North Star the sailors would use it as a baring to get home....you can find it on Really really old maps and old navy vessels... Punk Rock.. well we use it because we can and because Sailor Jerry made the coolest tattoos who started putting them on everyone.. my grandfather even had one thus being used as a traditional icon"
It just goes to show that when the same powerful symbol is used over and over again over decades of time it can taken on very different meanings for different groups. So all of those that you see sporting a nautical star tattoo might not all have the same interpretation of its symbolism.
So do you have a nautical star tattoo or think about getting one in the future? Which meaning of the symbol will you get the nautical star for? As long as you know what the symbolism behind the star is for and you have gotten it for the right reason to either support the lesbian movement or as a symbol to finding your way!
http://www.1articleworld.com/Article/Nautical-Star-Tattoos-the-History--Meaning-and-Symbolism--a-Strange-Mix/19503
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