It seems like I can’t turn on the TV anymore without seeing some form of new tattoo “reality” show. While I do appreciate the antics and comedy that these shows provide I do have a few issues with the reality factor on these shows.
For example, I promise you that the full sleeves and backpieces that you see finished on these shows are not drawn up in 15 minutes time and tattooed in a single session. I’m sure that the artist was actually consulted with well in advance and had the image completed and ready well ahead of the actual tattoo appointment. To tattoo a large piece takes time and is most often broken down into multiple sessions. Many artists like to take the time to properly prepare the image for the client and have them view the drawing before the appointment is even booked.
While a tattoo can be a great way to remind yourself of some significant life event, not every tattoo has to have a deeper meaning that will move you to tears to talk about. Some people are just art collectors and get tattoos in the style that they find appealing, while others just want to get something to make them smile. I personally am covered in silly little tattoos with no particular significance other than the idea struck me as funny or cute!
Tattooing is an artform that not every person can master. It takes time and dedication to learn, and until recently was one of the last trades that had to be learned in the form of an apprenticeship. There was no schools, or programs to take. You had to earn your place through years of free work to earn your place in the industry. Shows like “Tattoo School” are cheapening what used to be an industry of pride and hard work.
Try to remember that a tattoo is one of the few things in life that will last forever. Be patient and pick the right artist for you! Waiting an extra week to get the perfect tattoo will be well worth it! And just because the artist you are speaking to doesn’t have face stars doesn’t mean they are not qualified to tattoo you!
January 26, 2012
at 8:31 am
Love this article and completely agree. I watched 2 episodes of that so called “Ink master”..I thought it was awful, and I don’t like the fact that they care more about winning this so called competition, and not caring for the need and time a tattoo can take (multiple sessions) Also doing tattoos in styles they haven’t done, and making them do them even if they don’t look like they should (for example the tribal tattoos). I understand practice is on people for the most part, but supervision and good advice goes a long way when you not as comfortable doing the style. Instead there just letting them do what they want to these peoples bodies, that will have that mark on them forever.
February 11, 2012
at 3:12 am
Great post, thank you! It seems like because of these shows the only question I get about my tattoos are ‘what does it mean?’ I typically say, ‘beautiful artwork.’