Tattoo Art

Posts Tagged ‘tattoo cover up’

Tattoos in the west had its origins in Polynesia, after James Cook, a British explorer made a trip to Tahiti in 1769.  The islanders’ used the term “tatatau” or tattau, meaning to strike and this became the modern term “tattoo”.  Tattoos then  became fashionable among Europeans, starting with the sailors and 18th century explorers.  Sailors and later, coal miners, both had risky professions.  This would then explain the almost amulet-like use of anchors or minor’s lamp tattoos on the men’s forearms.  From the sailors, the practice of tattooing later spread to many Western societies.

Over 40 million Americans have a tattoo.  A distinctive tattoo for some, like the sailors or coal miners are symbolic.  For example, many prisoners often use their tattoos to reflect their criminal behavior.  It may show their gang affiliation or some gang members use a tear to show a friend who was killed.

Tattoos have been very common in the U.S. military and British Armed Forces.  Tattoos often represent the individual’s military unit or a battle they fought in.   Most of us have personally seen a tattoo on an older military individual.

Tattooing has experienced a rebirth in popularity in many parts of the world, such as North and South America, Japan and Europe.  With that resurgence of tattooing has come an influx of new tattoo artists into the industry, accompanied with their technical training and artistry.

Formal interest in the art of the tattoo has become very prominent in today’s society.  Contemporary art exhibitions and visual art institutions have featured the artistry of tattooing through such means as displaying tattoo flash, exploring the works of tattoo artists, or incorporating examples of body art into [mainstreameveryday] exhibits.

With this popularity has come tattoo regret where it is estimated that half of those receiving tattoos today live to regret their decision and are seeking a tattoo removal.   There are many tattoo removal methods that are used today.   The most effective means of tattoo removal is laser tattoo removal which can be painful and expensive.  Tattoo removal cream is an option that is controversial as to its effectiveness.  It can be done in the privacy of your home and the cost is substantially less than laser tattoo removal.   Other options are surgery where the tattoo is surgically removed.   There is also an option where the skin is sanded to remove the tattoo.  Another possibility is to simply do a tattoo cover up using make up or clothing.