Tattoos have been around for centuries. Each culture, tradition, and belief has seen them as a form of body modification that defines them and sets them apart. Whether tattoos have been inked to indicate positivity or despair, they have left quite a mark on history itself. It is true that the stigma that has grown with tattoos and body modifications has slowly been lifting off and it is now much more comfortable to flaunt a tattoo than it once was.
In some cultures, tattoos have always remained an essential part of their identity. There are variations and styles of tattoos that have served as a “stamps “or identification that binds the wearer to a certain tribe or belief.
Others have used tattoos as talismans to ward of injury and evil. There is century’s old evidence that has been linked to incantations chanted over tattoo designs to protect the wearer.
There are cultures in the world that have carried the tradition of tattoo till today and consider it a part of their being. The techniques used to etch these tattoos have varied from country to country from old nails; bamboo sticks sharpened into knives like objects and even barracuda teeth.
Tattoos have been etched to depict stories on the skin, a blank Canvas. Tattoo enthusiasts have recorded variations of tattoos from all over the world. The women of Tofi tattoo Swirl patterns on their faces to indicate their lineage. Cambodian Monks etch dark colored scrawling patterns onto their chests as a symbol of their faith.
In Los Angeles, you will see members of a particular association carrying similar designs to show their affiliation. The people of the Maori Tribe in New Zealand have etched patterns that are detailed and textured to depict various meanings. Even a single mark in their tattoos holds significance, and their techniques are unique to them. In fact, even though a modern tattoo artist may be able to create similar designs, it is considered imperative to at least the learn the basic techniques and meanings of the tattoos.
The tattoo has a great history in Japan, and specific groups use tattoos as marking to announce their affiliations. There is also some traditional Japanese Tattoo art which has traveled even to other countries such as the US and is well liked by tattoo enthusiasts.
In Western Culture tattoos have maintained an image as a sign of rebellion. This image has remained intact, but the interpretations have changed. Now, the tattoo is a reminder of resistance against sad times; they are an indication of the new birth, love, and joy.
Each design, placement and the inspiration for it holds deep meaning for the wearer. Tattoo designs have started cults, stemming from the choice of an artist or celebrity to individuals who claim to be true fans.
This trend has not just stuck to the boundaries of Hollywood but has even taken over a lot of other industries. For the most part, tattoos are chosen to be reminders of strength and prevalence against circumstances.
Besides this, tattoos are defining the wearer’s allegiance to the Catholic Faith. Rosaries, The Holy Virgin Mary and the Holy Bible itself are etched over skin to present new beginnings and the wearer’s faith. The whole world has practiced body modification and tattoos as a form of art in one way or another.
Over the past few years, designs inspired by traditional Hina have entered to the world of tattoos. With the extension of technology people all over the world are trying out cross-cultural designs, these are etched as an appreciation of a particular language, an appreciation of another culture or as a reminder of the wearers visits some remote part of the world.
Why is it important to find a Good Tattoo artist
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A tattoo parlor means nothing if the tattoo artists are not good. When Looking for the right place to get a tattoo make sure that you do your homework.
You cannot just show up at a place and start the process of getting a tattoo without knowing the skill-level of the artists they employ. This is necessary because a tattoo is a lifetime addition that even when removed with laser leaves scars that you will carry.
Each person is unique; even if you are getting a design that thousands of other people already have inked onto their bodies, your tattoo will remain unique.
This is because this tattoo is your story and perception attached to it. Moreover, choosing the right place is vital to prevent any financial blunder as some designs can cost well over a thousand dollars.
Of course, you will find places that offer tattoos at a fraction of the price that the renowned parlor is offering. But, it is worth it? The inked is etched through skin tissue into the skin, and the needle can introduce a variety of chronic diseases into your bloodstream. There is no way of ensuring whether the reduced price parlor even cleans their instruments.
Tattooing is a delicate affair, and you cannot risk your health for a few hundred dollars. It is best to have a substantial amount for this purpose before you commit to a design.
Tattoos need to be etched in a sterile environment with clean and disposable equipment. This is necessary to prevent any infection or disease from entering the wound.
It is best to arrange a consultation closer to your residence as some designs are a year-long process. Make sure the place you are going to has good reviews, and it’s registered.
Since tattoos are a growing trend all over the world, finding a suitable place to get tattooed in your country may not be a problem. Some celebrities choose to travel to other countries just to acquire the expert or niche services of the tattoo artists there.
Moreover, you will find that traditional methods are far more reliable than modern technology. However, hygiene cannot be compromised.
The Best Tattoo shops in the world
If you are looking for a specific kind of tattoo art and are willing to fly to a certain destination to get it done or looking for a place near your residence to get a tattoo then here is our list of the best tattoo shops all around the world.
1. Fortune Tattoos
This tattoo parlor is located in the City of Portland U.S. What makes this location one of the best is the fact that they have earned a name for themselves despite being located in a city where the rate of tattoo parlors is exceptionally high. The owner Ms. Mikki opened shop here in 2010 on April the 1st. Fortune tattoo is one of the most respectable and leading tattoo parlors in the area. The owner has herself been featured in several magazines namely; Northwest Tattoo, Skin and Ink as well as Tatowier Magazine.
The fortune tattoo is the best place to get your tattoo done if you are looking for a shop in Portland. They also offer some styles and designs that you can choose from.
2. TinTin Tatouages
Talk about an experienced artist who knows what he is doing. Tin Tatouages is located in Paris, France. This shop has been around for decades and has made a mark in the world of fashion. TinTin first began tattooing here in 1999. Tin tayouages has received recognition in magazines such as Elle and Q. Their tattoo art has also been used for marketing giant brands such as Givenchy, Philippe Starck, and Marc Jacobs.
3. Boston Tattoo
The Boston Tattoo company is located in Boston U.S.A. It opened its doors in 2010 but since then has just moved forward. Their services are impeccable, and attention to detail defines this parlor. They offered a variety of tattoo styles and landed the best of Boston reader’s award by 2011. The owner Jason Zube has made quite an impact on the tattoo industry over the years.
4. Tattoo Temple
The Tattoo Temple is a world-renowned tattoo parlor which is located in Hong Kong China. Joey pang the owner has developed the technique of tattoo art like no other that closely resembles Chinese Calligraphy. This technique is referred to as the brush stroke technique, and the waiting list for this tattoo parlor is about two years. The work of the artist here speaks for itself, and people from all over the world get tattooed here. Tattoos done at the tattoo temple have received features in CNN, CBS, and even travel channels.
5. Black and Blue Tattoos
If you are looking for specific styles of tattoo art, then this is the place for you. Located in San Francisco, this tattoo parlor was opened by Idexa-Stern in 1996. Since she was born in Germany, Idexa has hired a staff of around six people who belong to different countries and can speak a variety of languages. They specialize in geometric patterns, imagery, realism and Black Work as well. They were named the best tattoo artist for two consecutive years in 2009 and 2010 by San Francisco bay guardians.
6. Toronto Ink
This parlor is located in Toronto, Ontario Canada. Mark Their tattoo artist has worked as tattoo designer for the series Break Out kings on MTV. He was the tattoo artist on the air for the year 2007 on MTV.
7. Caio Tattoo
This tattoo parlor is located in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil; they first began operations manually using traditional methods of tattooing over 40 years ago. Caio remembers a time when tattoo art was only limited to the use of prostitutes, sailors, and bandits. Caios shop is located in Arpoador between Ipanema and Copacabana beaches.
8. Saved Tattoo
This shop is located in Brooklyn, New York. This shop first opened in 2005 and was the idea of Scott Campbell. Since 2005this shop has hired about eight of the top artists in the U.S and their client list is renowned one. Their clients include celebrities such as Heath Ledger, Robert Downy, Orlando Bloom, Sting and so on. Their services are top notch and have been praised quite frequently by known tattoo enthusiasts.
9. Kaze Gallery and Tattoo Studio
This place itself is a work of art as it acts as a gallery for the most brilliant tattoo art you will ever come across. This shop is located in Denver and specializes in creating custom designs. Artist Sandi Calistro and William Thiemann are the experts that offer exquisite works of art. They also act as hosts for art on a national and a local level.
10. Angel Art tattoo studio
Located in Bangkok, Thailand is a place known for its well-sung artist. Mr. Tung who is the owner of this shop is an expert in his craft and does no prefer working with stencils or drafts. His designs are drawn freehand right onto the skin than needled into one-of-a-kind tattoo art. He prides himself on creating original pieces of art that are unique to the wearer and cannot be replicated no matter what.
11. Shanghai Tattoo
Located in Shanghai, China, this shop has earned a name in the world of tattoos. Their pieces have earned features in top media outlets such as CNN, Addidas Shanghai daily, Inked Magazine and even sueddeutsche.de. They have moved their location to a larger space in Maoming Nan Lu.
12. Apocalypse Tattoos
Located in Seattle, WA USA, the apocalypse has been featured as one of the best tattoo places in some local and national magazines. They have also earned fame in countries such as Japan, Italy, Tattoo society (U.S), Skin deep in U.K and Tattoo Arte in Mexico. They work has inspired some tattoo artists all around the world especially in countries where their work has been published. Moreover, they offer a variety of styles and even customize their tattoo art as required by the customer.
13. AKA
This shop is located in Berlin, Germany. AKA has aimed at creating a complete space including a café, a performance studio and a home for stray cats. You can also find various kinds of tattoo art here or attend an art exhibition as well.
