Tattooing Hits the Mainstream

It’s hard to believe that we are in 2009 already. One thing you learn as you age is that life is quite dynamic, changing daily. And…each successive generation is a bit different than the last. Time brings us new technology, improvements in medical equipment and so much more. And, like everything else…attitudes change as well.

In ancient times, people got tattoos either for identification or beautification. For instance, certain Native American tribes got tattoos to depict their status, tribe, and sometimes their mate. As the years went by tattoos were still considered taboo within many western cultures. Most believed that tattoos were signs of criminality or low class. Once the arena of sailors, bikers and convicts, tattooing is now heading full speed into the mainstream of modern society, bringing new profits to tattoo studios and even attracting the attention of some prominent art museums.

In 2009 things are improving for the tattoo artist. They have access to much better equipment, improved inks, and lots more clients. Before getting a tattoo you should have a checklist made up. Studio cleanliness should be tops on this list. In fact, the shop should be as clean as a medical facility. Some doctors voice concerns how some tattoo artists do not sterilize their equipment properly…which could lead to viral or bacterial infections, including hepatitis. Also, make sure you check out the artists portfolio for the quality of work on past tattoos. Many customers are unaware of just how expensive, difficult and painful it is to have a tattoo removed.

In the past five years there has been a compelling rise in tattooing. And now it’s for just about anybody. Doctors, lawyers and professional people as well as blue-collar workers get tattooed. The “art” world is also starting to pay attention to what was once a back-alley art form. The Drawing Center of SoHo, in Manhattan, held a comprehensive exhibition devoted to tattooing 18 months ago and a tattoo museum recently opened in Amsterdam. We are seeing more and more of the tattoo art form touted in the mainstream. Most of the people I know have at least one tattoo and every tattoo has a special meaning to its owner.

I truly believe that the most important thing you can do before you get a tattoo is to have your checklist ready and scope out all the tattoo studios in your area. If you find something you don’t like about a shop…approach the artist with your concerns or just leave and find another shop. Remember…your choice of tattoo design will more or less be with you a lifetime. Be sure you’ve chosen the right one. Arming yourself with knowledge is the first step in having a tattoo you’ll be proud of for the rest of your life.