Tattoo body mod
From Mod Mania
Body Modification: Tattoos.
Tattoos have been around for many years now and for many have become one of the main means for modifying there body. Before it became a cosmetic procedure, and a fashion statement it was commonly used as a cultural identification, beliefs and religion. Tattoo has originated in many countries and used for different reasons. Some of these countries and types will be discussed later such as Japan, Maoris and pacific islands, and Celtic backgrounds from Ireland. Modern society now uses tattoos as a fashionable item and commonly referred to in pop culture. There is still however people who follow traditional concepts with beliefs and meanings behind there tattoo.
The first tattoo was said to be found 4000 years ago on a mummified body in ancient Egypt. Although this was the earliest tattoo evidence they found it may still be evident of tattoos present earlier than this date. Tattoos in historical years where usually black or dark blue in colour which can be made from the soot of burnt candlenuts (this was used mainly in the pacific island culture. One of the techniques used to apply ink to the skin in the earlier years was by using a device like a small chisel with comb like teeth on the end to tap ink into the skin; this technique used is very painful and still is used traditionally in the pacific islands. In modern society tattoos are done by spring loaded hot needle gun which injects the ink under the skin.
The pacific islands have a long history of tattoos and body art and this inspiration was driven by the sea and there lands. Their body art was used as self identification and told stories through there tribal style tattoos.
In Japan crime organizations like the yakuza used tattoos to identify members of there group. The tattoos that the yakuza’s had usually covered there whole body ending at the wrists, neck and around the ankles with a distinctive and strategically v shape around there chest for when an open shirt was worn in public. The yakuza tattoos where done as a sign of respect and loyalty within the organization with symbols such as dragons, koi fish, and tigers to name a few Japanese elements.
Tattoos done in the Celtic style are among the most popular styles of the last few years. The inspiration of Celtic style did not originate or derive from the ancient Celts but rather based on the patterns found on illuminated manuscripts and glass paintings found in ancient cathedrals. Some of these designs are inspired by the religious symbols with Christianity such as crosses and symbols that are found in cathedrals.
Over many years’ tattoos has become a very large part of society as the industry becomes larger due to tattoo artists and tattoo studios with new and popular designs coming through. It also has become a major part of a branding and commercial factor with the likes of Ed Hardy turning his tattoo work of art into a lifestyle with clothing and apparel.
In Modern Society Tattoos are commonly used for fashionable needs. Society has made there own “culture” and consumer communities as certain groups wear their own style and based in their personal interests and taste such as the rock and heavy metal communities associate with tattoos that include skulls, demons and devils to name a few.
There are many other cultures and styles that influence designs; the crucifix is a popular religious symbol along with the Hindu symbol of “Om”. Other popular designs include animals such as tigers and eagles which resemble meanings such as power and strength.
Another contributor to this culture/ community of tattoo art is sport stars and celebrities. David Beckham has a guardian angel on his back with the names of his children around it to symbolize protection. This is nothing new as many people over the years even have there close family and friends portraits tattooed for remembrance. Another example of modernized tattoos used as body modification is Angelina Jolie she has many tattoos on her body which is said to symbolize important parts of her life, such as the latitudes and longitudes degrees of her adopted children’s birthplaces.
I for one am a fan of this culture and see it not as just a form of art but something that defines us. Tattoos hold meanings and something special that in today’s society anything is possible to modify, but to mod yourself is personal and it states who you are and what is important to you.
In Conclusion Tattoos have changed over many years from solely being used as cultural and religious factors to now fashionable but yet meaningful works of art and as some would say “Body modification”. More and more people are getting tattoos as the culture starts to evolve and change as the industry grows and more tattoo artists come up with unique and stunning designs, it goes to show how far it has become from ancient times to today’s modern culture.
S3199046 Ahil Kumar.
Harvard Style Referencing
Gerard, J 2001, Celebrity skin tattoos, brands, and body adornments of the stars, Apple Press, East Sussex, UK.
Mason, P 2004, Body Art TATOOING, Heinemann Library, London UK.
