Have you ever looked at someone with a huge pin-up on their shoulder and wondered, what are the reasons people get tattooed?
Tattoos have their share of misunderstanding. From being banned in many work environments, to being deemed socially unacceptable in many parts of the world, their history and purpose vary based on the wearer. They are truly an individual piece of art. Take a look at the many different reasons people get tattooed and it may change your opinion on them.
Prison and Gangs
On the darker side of the tattoo world, there are prison tattoos and designs used amongst gang members to affiliate themselves with one another on the street. The history of prison tattoos are being brought back into discussion with the upcoming release of
Tattoo Nation
, which documents the history of black and grey portrait tattooing from the streets of Los Angeles, and their start in the Chicano based tattoo shop, Tattooland.
For Profit
Although not nearly a common reason for getting a tattoo, some people sell their bodies for prime advertising space. The online casino paid a woman $15,000 to tattoo their casino logo on her forehead.These types of tattoos, while profitable, are also most likely to end with regret. Think twice before you sell your body to anyone.
Other Reasons
Another reason people may get tattooed is to cover up scar tissue, such as opting for a breast tattoo post-mastectomy. This is also true of a deformality or permanent handicap. For example, someone may lose their arm in a shark attack, and decide to tattoo the shape of a shark’s head on their remaining limb. Adding a dose of humor to an unfortunant circumstance, these types of tattoos can prove to be healing, especially when they help improve the appearance of the body and boost confidence. While the reasons people get tattooed are many, the end result is always the same. It’s permanent!
