Tattoos Challenges Both Wearer And Observer

We all begin our ‘life with tattoos’ differently. Some of us go all out right from the start, big and bold with no regrets. Others are more conservative, settling on a small tattoo in some inconspicuous place, such as the shoulder blade, ankle, lower back, or below the bikini line. At some point, often immediately after that fateful first tattoo, the decision is made that yes, we would consider doing it again, or no, one tattoo is enough.

Many people are happy with their one and only tattoo. It was a unique experience, and they feel like they are complete with it. On the other hand, some people enjoy the sensation of getting a tattoo and the result of having it so much that they will often begin planning their next tattoo before the scabs heal on the one they just received.

The second tattoo is almost always bigger than the first, and usually in a location that is more noticeable. The back is a good place for a larger tattoo that can either be seen or covered relatively easily. The upper arm begins to be viewed as a good canvas for a large, prominent design. After all, we reason, we can cover it up if we have to. As the attitude that tattoos must be concealable begins to wane, unless we have specific reasons for needing to cover them, the ‘hide-ability’ factor seems to matter less and less with each tattoo that we get.

Even so, moving down to the forearm seems to be a defining moment for many people, because tattoos in this location are visible all of the time in casual clothing. Unless you are wearing long sleeves in the middle of the summer, virtually everywhere you go people will see your ink. That’s not a problem for most people, most of the time, but if your job prohibits visible tattoos, lower down on the arm might not be the best location for one.

For some people, at least, the transition to the forearm pretty much means that there’s no going back. They are who they are, they like what they like, and the rest of the world can just… Well, I’m sure you get the idea.

There is something seductive about being openly tattooed and completely unconcerned about it. You become someone that draws the eyes of just about everyone who passes you, instead of just being a person walking through a store or attending a school play. Peoples eyes automatically look towards your tattoos, without them even realizing that they are staring. You get used to it, after a while. Tattoos challenge the wearer to be more tolerant of the gazes of others just as they challenge the observer to be less judgmental towards the person who has them.