What might seem like a taboo topic to some, tattoos allow people to express themselves in ways that aren’t on paper. While a permanent decision, tattoos have caught controversy not only for the lasting branding they make on one’s body but also for those who get them. Legally, anybody over the age of 18 can get a tattoo without parental consent, and anybody over the age of 16 can get a tattoo with the supervision of a parent. While many shops refuse to ink somebody underage, some find themselves wary of tattooing fresh adults, regardless of legality.
About a week ago, I got my first tattoo. Yes, I am freshly 18, but the taboo around tattoos shouldn’t stop anybody from getting artwork on their body. I chose something meaningful, something small and something that I know I won’t regret. Now after getting the tattoo, I still don’t regret my decision at all, and that doesn’t mean somebody’s opinion on what I do with my body should stop me from doing something meaningful. After all, I am an adult, and have the authority to get one tattoo, or 20, if I please.
Nobody’s opinion should influence your decision-making, whether it’s your tattoo artist or a random bystander. Artwork shouldn’t be taboo, whether it’s permanent or not. If we continue to create stereotypes revolving around tattoos, it will only create more dangerous situations for the younger audience; stick and pokes. Not only can stick and pokes look terrible, but they also increase the risk of infection within your bloodstream. Promoting a healthy and safe opportunity to get tattoos creates a more diverse, safe and responsible community, for those choosing to get tattoos or not.
While tattoos can be deemed “trashy” or “flashy” by some, I truly believe those with these preconceived notions have had little cultural exposure, whatever form that may be. There is nothing “trashy” about art, whether it is on paper or on your arm; artwork is artwork. Not only do these notions discredit the recipient of tattoos, but also the artists who put their time and energy into tracing every line correctly. Our society is constantly evolving, and we have to open our eyes to the changes in our world. So yes, some people might have no tattoos, some may have one, and some may have 20. That doesn’t change who they are, so why are we so stigmatized on art?
