TATTOO YOU

Representing the spirit and culture of a destination, body art is an expression of a specific sort of wanderlust. There are many ways to incorporate a moment in a far-away place into ones ‘everyday’ life. A bold scarf, an engaging story, or a prominent coffee table souvenir is a reminder of revered memories. And, if one so chooses, a tattoo.

The body is a scrapbook, with tattoos (and scars) as imprints of our travels; a living, breathing chronicle of our life’s story. The body is a map, both private and public, revealing intimacies in layers, one of a kind, and tattoos highlight a treasured spots. Tattoos are quite literally a blood pact, a pledge of permanence, dramatized flesh. Tattoos mirror memory, transforming and evolving as the body ages, becoming stains of significance.

On the surface, body ink may be perceived as something simply beautiful or shocking or artful, but go beneath the surface – and tattoos are never just skin deep – they are a metaphor for a certain type of cultural commitment. Stephanie Tamez, discussing the art of tattoos with PBS says, “It’s so personal. It’s a mark in time. It’s a lifelong experience.“ Permanent adornment. Art adventurer. Insider and outsider. Explorer and Pioneer.

Yet another way to be a woman of the world.

July 2012