Tattoos are more than just a simple decoration–they allow people to transform their bodies into canvases for storytelling and self-expression.
It’s quite common for young people to showcase their identities through their appearances, whether it’s through unique clothing choices, hair coloring, piercings, makeup, or even tattoos. Tattoos serve as a more defined and, albeit more permanent, way for students to disclose these aspects of their identities.
“I have one [a tattoo] on my back that says ‘Sonder,’ and it has a sort of double meaning. Sonder is the artist name of the musician Brent Faiyaz, but the other meaning of the word is that everyone has their own perspective on everyday life. It gives me more character in the sense of understanding other people and what they go through every day,” said Brody Iverson (12), who got his first tattoo in October.
Some tattoos can go beyond surface-level style, instead relaying deeper stories about the skin they adorn. These permanent marks upon their bodies may symbolize the love one holds for their family or friends or even celebrate significant aspects of their culture or heritage.
“I have one tattoo, I just got it two weeks ago. It’s a cowboy boot with my family’s birth flowers on it. My family means a lot to me, so I just wanted to find a way to permanently show it. I hope that when people see it, they can understand that I’m a very family-oriented person,” said Shanna Geyer (12).
Differing designs, ranging from bolder concepts that allow the wearer to feel more confident to others that might be more delicate and symbolize a sense of vulnerability, tattoos allow people to communicate elements of their personalities, values, and life stories in ways that words simply can’t sometimes.
Some students take tattooing into their own hands, opting to give themselves stick-and-poke designs. While this DIY process requires great degrees of safety and precision, the tattoos that people might give themselves can hold a deeper sense of personal connection that just can’t be replicated at a professional studio.
However, even with that idea, it should be noted that things can very easily go wrong with giving yourself a tattoo or even when getting one done by a professional. Both methods necessitate a large amount of preparation and safety precautions, and even then, things can still be dangerous, so it’s crucial always to prioritize one’s safety and follow each step of professional advice to minimize risks.
With more and more young people getting tattoos, it raises the question of whether or not people are growing more accepting of tattoos in schools, workplaces, and society in general. Some may face backlash, their tattoos being fuel for harsh responses from others, but at the same time, positive experiences may result from interactions that people have as a result.
Some may wonder where to start if they’re considering getting a tattoo. Spending a lot of time thinking about design and placement is important to avoid future regrets.
“If you’re thinking about getting your first tattoo, please plan it out. Don’t just rush into it without some deep thought,” said Iverson.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect when looking at these tattoos isn’t necessarily what they mean now, but how that meaning will change as those who wear them and the world around them change.
