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Monday, August 17, 2009
There are several reasons why tattoos have become popular. In the past, the tattooing process was not very hygienic and often took place in a disreputable looking dive. One look at the stained needles and chain-smoking bearded tattoo johnny and most prospective customers run away. Now you have clean-cut tattoo artists in brightly lit studios doing the job. When you step in, you will see autoclaves and other gleaming pieces of technology for sterilizing the tattoo equipment. The artist appears thoroughly professional and uses new needles for each customer. The experience of getting a tattoo becomes indistinguishable from that of getting a hair cut or beauty makeover.
Are Sanskrit tattoo designs a recent Western phenomenon, or did the ancient Indians already have such tattoos? On the surface, it seems unlikely because Hinduism bans tattoos - much the same case as any other major religion, actually. But we also know that many other ancient cultures also made tattoos taboo - but they still infiltrated those societies. The Greeks, Romans, Japanese and Chinese come to mind. In addition, henna temporary tattoos have been a part of life in India and the Middle East for many centuries, often used by women during celebrations.
Austin's Sleeve Pays Tribute to His Grandmother
Austin was visiting New York when I stopped him on 7th Avenue right in front of the Fuse studio.
He offered up this sleeve on his left arm:
This was inked by Amanda Grace at Truth and Triumph Tattoos. She now works at Smartbomb Tattoo. Both shops are in Dayton, Ohio.
The playing cards are a tribute to his grandmother, who was a card player. She also tended roses, so these flowers also pay homage to her.
Of the other elements, Austin says he just likes skulls, artistically. Also, the words "Never Again" are there to remind him to remain strong his sobriety, and not to go down that same road of dependency.
I appreciate Austin stopping and chatting with me, and thank him for his forthrightness, and for sharing his tattoos with us here on Tattoosday!
He offered up this sleeve on his left arm:
This was inked by Amanda Grace at Truth and Triumph Tattoos. She now works at Smartbomb Tattoo. Both shops are in Dayton, Ohio.
The playing cards are a tribute to his grandmother, who was a card player. She also tended roses, so these flowers also pay homage to her.
Of the other elements, Austin says he just likes skulls, artistically. Also, the words "Never Again" are there to remind him to remain strong his sobriety, and not to go down that same road of dependency.
I appreciate Austin stopping and chatting with me, and thank him for his forthrightness, and for sharing his tattoos with us here on Tattoosday!
Labels:
Memorial,
Playing Cards,
Roses,
Smartbomb Tattoo,
Truth and Triumph Tattoos,
Words
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