Thursday, May 16, 2013

Tattoos shift from rebellion to fashion

 


The word tattoo came from the Tahitian term "Tatua" which means "to mark." Different practices of tattoo art have been experienced for centuries by many different cultures all over the world.  The first tattoo is said to be documented by the Egyptians in 4000 B.C.  The Japanese began tattooing around in 500 B.C.  The art of tattooing began in America by immigrants in the early 1800s.  Martin Hildebrandt, a German immigrant, was the first professional tattooist in the United States.  Every single tattoo was done by hand with a long needle.  In 1891, the first electric tattoo machine was invented.  This made life a lot easier.  Samuel O'reilly had the first documented tattoo parlor to open in New York City. 
       Tattoos had been used for many different ways for individuals to express themselves such as religion, feelings, and style.  They even used tattoos to punish the criminals.
Years ago, tattoos were considered to be a symbol of rebellion and only specific groups of people used to get inked. They were finger pointed by an extremely conservative society. Nowadays things have changed. The art of tattooing is growing everyday.  It is a form of art that was once looked down upon and very rare; and today growing into something popular and more common into today's society.  I believe it is a way to show someone who you are without speaking. The future of tattoos will be accepted no matter what your profession may be.                         
       According to statistics, in 2011 every 4th person in the USA has at least one tattoo.  In a rating ‘Top 100 Sexiest Women Alive’ 38 have at least one permanent tattoo and 3 have temporary tattoos.
     Freja Beha, pictured below, is a runway and campaign model for HUGO, Chanel and many other fashion houses.  Freja Beha has 16 tattoos, most of which are all small but are visible when you are looking at her.  Looking at the picture, you cannot see any tattoos..showing the viewers that she has a clean and postive image.  Beha has 16 tattoos and but yet when being professional you cannot see one.  In this situation, the makeup artist did a excellent job with makeup as well as posing her so you cannot see any of her tattoos; makeup does wonders nowdays.  Tattoos are sometimes deceiving in certain industries, but they can always be covered up - whether it is with makeup, clothing, or even with another tattoo.    
     On the other hand, there are many labels who use tattoos to promote their brand.  A great example of a label who uses tattoos to promote their brand is Don Ed Hardy.  Don Ed Hardy is best known for his tattoo work.  All of his clothing have tattoo designs on them.  Some of the long sleeve shirts has an appreance of tattooed sleeves, so individuals who do not have tattoos on their arms can dress to make it look they have tattooed sleeves.  Buckle brand, Affliction, and Pacific Sunwear brand all use tattooed models to promote their brand as well.   


Freja Beha Erichsen




        

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