A Short Guide to Tattoo Designs
This short Guide to Tattoos and Choosing Tattoo Designs is intended to give you an insider view on the process of getting tattoos and the importance of choosing the right tattoo design. Obviously tattoos are a permanent mark on your body and as such can represent an important stage in life or have some other personal meaning. The best tattoos are not necessarily the ones that look the best but sometimes are the ones that have the deepest meanings...
Before you get tattooed you should consider the ultimate reason why you are getting tattooed. It is helpful if you try to learn as much as you can about different styles of tattoos before visiting your tattoo artist. Certain tattoo designs can have totally different meanings to what you may have previously thought and can also be associated with a particular cultural group - in the case of ethnographic tattoos or gang tattoos. The last thing you want is to get a particular type of tattoo that will overshadow who you really are, or worse, mean something different than what you intended.
This is particularly true of kanji tattoo designs. If you are getting a kanji tattoo design make sure you have the words professionally translated and verified by someone who is knowledgeable on the different styles of Japanese script. Don't rely on some free kanji design taken from a website or picked straight off a tattoo flash sheet in the studio. It is estimated that in some studios there is a 25% chance that the translation you see on the tattoo flash sheet is wrong! There are many documented cases of Westerners getting Asian style tattoos that ended up being complete gobbledygook!
The Complete Tattoo Bible is a guide to tattoos and choosing tattoo designs.
See This Guide to Tattoos and Choosing Tattoo Designs!
Another important factor to consider is where you are going to have the tattoo design. The placement of a tattoo is not to be taken lightly. It is a good idea to discuss the size and placement of your chosen tattoo design with the tattoo artist BEFORE the needle actually touches your skin. Once that needle starts up and the artist gets to work it is very hard to change your mind and even harder to have it removed. Professional tattoo removalists will tell you it can cost ten times as much to get the tattoo removed as it does to be laid down in the first place. Getting a tattoo emblazoned across your hands or neck may seem like a cool idea when you are young but will you still feel good about it in 10 or 20 years time? Think of the long term impact of highly visible ink will have on your life.
Choose a tattoo design that reflects who you are not as a fashion statement. Tattoo designs come and go. What was in ten years ago is not whats in now. Although there are certain mainstays in tattooing. Tattoo styles such as Traditional American, Black and Grey Tattoos, Celtic tattoo designs, tribal tattoo designs (ethnographic style) and Japanese tattoo designs will always be around and won't 'age' badly unlike other types of tattoo designs such as cartoon characters, certain styles of tribal designs, barbed wire arm-bands or even tramp stamps!
Sometimes size DOES matter! Why bother getting a tattoo that looks like a piece of grime from a few metres away? I know the natural inclination for tattoo virgins is to start small and then work up to bigger designs later on. But rather than getting a tiny tattoo the size of your fingernail why not think about the overall picture and GO BIG instead? Presumably you are getting inked because you like the idea of altering your body NOT because everyone else is getting tattoos. A good idea is to think of your body as a blank canvas and visualize how a tattoo design is going to evolve on your body over the course of your lifetime.
It is often said by people who have been tattooed that it is like losing your virginity! Even while your first tattoo is still healing you will possibly be thinking about your next one. The sensation of being tattooed, the rush, the smell of the shop and even the bonding with the tattoo artist can all be very memorable and intense. This bonding can be so strong that many people will go to the same tattoo artist for all of their tattoos. Either way show your tattoo artist the respect they deserve and if you love their work leave a big fat tip!
Want more Tattoos and Help Choosing the Right Tattoo Design?
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-and-choosing-tattoo-designs.html
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Borneo Tattoos
Tribal Tattoos in Borneo
The practice of tattoos in Borneo has a rich tradition going back centuries and still seems to be alive and well. Borneo is the third largest island in the world and is a hostile region with few Westerners venturing in. As a result descriptions of tattoos were rare before the start of the twentieth century. There were many accounts of headhunting amongst the indigenous people which put off a lot of people from getting very far but fortunately since the colonization by the Dutch this practice has been outlawed!
The Kayan tribe are the source of most tattoo designs which spread to other tribes such as the Iban and Kenyah. The Kayan style (which means interior or inland person) of tattoos owes its popularity to its wood-block stamp technique. Tribe members would carve patterns into blocks of wood and then transfer it onto the skin. Tribes such as the Iban would then borrow tattoo motifs from the Kayan and others and adapt to suit their own tribe.
As a result tattoos spread throughout Borneo amongst different tribes as tribal members came back with different tattoo designs as a proof of their ventures much in the same way a passport is stamped when going to different countries. The traditional rosettes are still popular with the older generation with the younger generation going for more modern tattoo designs such as Asian inspired dragons and pin up girls.
Borneo rosette tattoos are usually placed on the shoulder of males.
Traditional Borneo Rosette Tattoos
Of all the tribes in Borneo the Iban tribe is the most heavily tattooed with designs copied from the Kayan Kenyah and Bakatan tribes. The most common tattoo designs were the throat motif called the katak. Wrist tattoos called inkut were also common. They were believed to stop the soul from escaping the body.
Dogs, scorpions and rosettes were especially popular most often collected by members of a tribe during travels and encounters with other tribal members. The rosette was beleived to a symbol of a dogs eye by some tribes which revered the dog even though it was not a sacred animal. Other tribes belived the rosette was a depiction of a flower.
Tattoos in Borneo have become decorative even though in the past they were worn to detail a tribe members status. Tattoos such as dots found between the thumb and index finger can indicate that the person has killed someone and members of the Murut tribe earned tattoos as a reward for perilous journeys which are still commonplace. Nowadays this style of tattoos are most often seen on those who have adopted the new tribal style of tattoos.
Tattoo design worn on the throat of Borneo men.
Tribal Throat Tattoo Designs
The sequel to the 1st International Borneo Tattoo Convention in 2002, which was a hugely successful one and the 2nd one promises to be bigger and better with more emphasis on cultural and traditional styles. It will be held in an awesome venue, in Sibu which is the heart of visiting Sarawak, especially in 2007 visit Malaysia year. Be there let us bring you back in time.....
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-006-borneo.html
The practice of tattoos in Borneo has a rich tradition going back centuries and still seems to be alive and well. Borneo is the third largest island in the world and is a hostile region with few Westerners venturing in. As a result descriptions of tattoos were rare before the start of the twentieth century. There were many accounts of headhunting amongst the indigenous people which put off a lot of people from getting very far but fortunately since the colonization by the Dutch this practice has been outlawed!
The Kayan tribe are the source of most tattoo designs which spread to other tribes such as the Iban and Kenyah. The Kayan style (which means interior or inland person) of tattoos owes its popularity to its wood-block stamp technique. Tribe members would carve patterns into blocks of wood and then transfer it onto the skin. Tribes such as the Iban would then borrow tattoo motifs from the Kayan and others and adapt to suit their own tribe.
As a result tattoos spread throughout Borneo amongst different tribes as tribal members came back with different tattoo designs as a proof of their ventures much in the same way a passport is stamped when going to different countries. The traditional rosettes are still popular with the older generation with the younger generation going for more modern tattoo designs such as Asian inspired dragons and pin up girls.
Borneo rosette tattoos are usually placed on the shoulder of males.
Traditional Borneo Rosette Tattoos
Of all the tribes in Borneo the Iban tribe is the most heavily tattooed with designs copied from the Kayan Kenyah and Bakatan tribes. The most common tattoo designs were the throat motif called the katak. Wrist tattoos called inkut were also common. They were believed to stop the soul from escaping the body.
Dogs, scorpions and rosettes were especially popular most often collected by members of a tribe during travels and encounters with other tribal members. The rosette was beleived to a symbol of a dogs eye by some tribes which revered the dog even though it was not a sacred animal. Other tribes belived the rosette was a depiction of a flower.
Tattoos in Borneo have become decorative even though in the past they were worn to detail a tribe members status. Tattoos such as dots found between the thumb and index finger can indicate that the person has killed someone and members of the Murut tribe earned tattoos as a reward for perilous journeys which are still commonplace. Nowadays this style of tattoos are most often seen on those who have adopted the new tribal style of tattoos.
Tattoo design worn on the throat of Borneo men.
Tribal Throat Tattoo Designs
The sequel to the 1st International Borneo Tattoo Convention in 2002, which was a hugely successful one and the 2nd one promises to be bigger and better with more emphasis on cultural and traditional styles. It will be held in an awesome venue, in Sibu which is the heart of visiting Sarawak, especially in 2007 visit Malaysia year. Be there let us bring you back in time.....
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-006-borneo.html
AFL Players Tattoos
Footy Stars Line Up to be Inked
Tattoos amongst AFL (Australian Football League) players seems to be a growing trend. More and more of them seem to be lining up to be inked. Whereas with other sports such as soccer, NRL or NFL it is very hard to see if a player has a tattoo on his upper arm but that is not the case with AFL or footy as it is known in Australia. The standard AFL guernsey is sleeveless although a few players do wear the long sleeve top. As a result footy players don't really get to hide their tattoos while on the field.
Spider Everitt from Hawthorn FC with tribal tattoos.
In most careers visible tattoos are a definite no-no. Not so in AFL! There are a number of players such as the players listed below who have tattoos on their inner arms. Their tattoos can be seen quite often particularly when they reach up to take a mark or score a goal. The reason for footy players getting tattoos is as diverse as with any other tattoo enthusiast. Some players seem to get them to mark milestones in their life or career while others get them because they look great!
Barry Hall from Sydney Swans with redback spider tattoo.
AFL Players with upper arms / inner arms tattoos:
* Spider Everett - Full sleeve tribal tattoo
* Brendan Fevola - Kanji tattoo and tribal design
* Nathan Brown - Cross
* Cameron Mooney - Tribal tattoo
* Barry Hall - Redback spider tattoo design
* Kayne Pettifer
* Andrew Mcleod - Aboriginal tattoo design
* Jonathan Hay - Pacific Island style tattoo
* Troy Makepeace - Tribal armband tattoo
* Courtney Johns
* Heath Scotland
* Byron Pickett
Andrew Mcleod shows his arm tattoos.
AFL Players with back tattoos / lower back tattoos:
* Cameron Mooney - Kanji tattoo
* Nick Riewoldt - Kanji tattoo
*
Mark Ricciuto
Brendan Fevola from Carlton Blues shows his tribal tattoos.
This is not a complete list of AFL players with tattoos. If you know of any other players with tattoos please let us know.
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-002-afl.html
Tattoos amongst AFL (Australian Football League) players seems to be a growing trend. More and more of them seem to be lining up to be inked. Whereas with other sports such as soccer, NRL or NFL it is very hard to see if a player has a tattoo on his upper arm but that is not the case with AFL or footy as it is known in Australia. The standard AFL guernsey is sleeveless although a few players do wear the long sleeve top. As a result footy players don't really get to hide their tattoos while on the field.
Spider Everitt from Hawthorn FC with tribal tattoos.
In most careers visible tattoos are a definite no-no. Not so in AFL! There are a number of players such as the players listed below who have tattoos on their inner arms. Their tattoos can be seen quite often particularly when they reach up to take a mark or score a goal. The reason for footy players getting tattoos is as diverse as with any other tattoo enthusiast. Some players seem to get them to mark milestones in their life or career while others get them because they look great!
Barry Hall from Sydney Swans with redback spider tattoo.
AFL Players with upper arms / inner arms tattoos:
* Spider Everett - Full sleeve tribal tattoo
* Brendan Fevola - Kanji tattoo and tribal design
* Nathan Brown - Cross
* Cameron Mooney - Tribal tattoo
* Barry Hall - Redback spider tattoo design
* Kayne Pettifer
* Andrew Mcleod - Aboriginal tattoo design
* Jonathan Hay - Pacific Island style tattoo
* Troy Makepeace - Tribal armband tattoo
* Courtney Johns
* Heath Scotland
* Byron Pickett
Andrew Mcleod shows his arm tattoos.
AFL Players with back tattoos / lower back tattoos:
* Cameron Mooney - Kanji tattoo
* Nick Riewoldt - Kanji tattoo
*
Mark Ricciuto
Brendan Fevola from Carlton Blues shows his tribal tattoos.
This is not a complete list of AFL players with tattoos. If you know of any other players with tattoos please let us know.
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-002-afl.html
Akasha D'Eville
Tattooed Queen of the Damned!
Akasha hails from Lisbon in Portugal originally but has recently moved to London in the UK. She has been a fetish/pinup/alternative model for the past four or five years and is still the very first alternative Portuguese model to be featured in international fetish websites.
She is a strong and independent woman with a taste for the macabre and is very passionate about tattoos, photography and music as well has having a wicked sense of humor! In this grimly fiendish interview you can get inside the twisted mind of this enchantress aka Akasha D'Eville...
You seem to be drawn to the macabre and other fiendish things. Tell me more about that?
I'm a horror fanatic since I was a child and grew up watching those black and white Dracula old movies, so that's why I have this thing about the macabre, blood, gore and vampires. For some people blood might be offensive, for me it's just normal. There is so much more offensive issues like slavery and child abuse...
I really like your fetish stuff and the way you challenge perceptions of what is acceptable or how a 'woman' should look or even behave. Is that a reaction to how mainstream society depicts women or some other reason?
Some women in the fetish area tend to have porn photos ... I like porn, don't get me wrong, but some of my photos are artistic nude, people that know my photos know what I'm talking about... I aprove nude for art, not for porn. A woman can be very sexy shooting fetish erotic photos, it just leaves more to your imagination... beeing a pinup model is about all that, acting sexy and classy without spreading your legs.
Fetish model Akasha D'Eville shows off her sexy body and tattoos
Tell me more about some of the fetish modeling work you have done?
I have been modelling for 4 years now. It all started when a friend, marcoprofanArte, started taking photos of me. The photos turned out pretty good and we started sending them to websites. I got accepted in some websites, refused in others because I wasn't porn enough (laughs). I have shot with Portuguese, American and UK photographers. Some of my last photosets were with the amasing Matt Miller and a multiple photoset with model Lucifera, one of my inspirations (photos taken by Chris Ayres). You can see it all for free on my website Akasha D'Eville
Tell me the story behind your tattoos?
When I turned 18, I made my first tattoo and I never stopped since. Being from Portugal is not like being from the United States. Portugal is a closed minded country and people judge you by your appearance. There aren't many women in Portugal with massive tattoos like me. Fortunatly, the scene is growing and there are alot of good tattoo artists in Portugal. I make all my tattoos in Atomic Tattoo Studio in Lisbon, Portugal. I've known Francisco for many years and we are good friends. He's very talented and one of the best in Portugal.
The meaning of my tattoos: well the tribal colored suns on each arm, one is red because it symbolizes fire, the other is blue because it symbolizes water. These are some Earth - elements we cannot live without. My angel wings are really because I'm an aries and in Chinese culture I'm a horse of fire which is symbolized by an angel. My leopard stars on my feet are just because I love start and leopard print and I've never seen any tattoo like the one on my feet. I tend to be original when it comes to tattoos. My half sleeve on my left arm is inspired on a full sleeve that Tim Kern (from Last Rites Tattoos, works with Paul Booth) made some years ago. The alien has a gas mask because I love gas masks... there's something twisted about them...
Fetish model Akasa shows her sexy body and tattoos
Have you found a good tattoo artist in London yet?
I'm very excited to be going to the London tattoo Convention in October. It's gonna be huge!
About the UK tattoo artist, I've know the work of Mantas, which has this Giger inspired designs and I love Giger. I'll get in touch with him pretty soon to see if I can get some more ink done (laughs)
What projects do you have planned for the next few months?
I will be in The Living Dead Girls Agency soon, going to shoot with Elisabeth Stanton for Beauty in Darkness and also a photoshoot with Distorted Retina.
Where do you usually hang out after dark in London?
In an alley sucking the blood of an innocent human (laughs) kidding, of course. I'm more a bar/pub person than the club scene. I'm into metal and there aren't very good metal clubs in London that play *real* metal (I mean trash, death, black, extreme metal), in my opinion, so I usually just chill out at the Crobar, The Intrepid Fox, Garlics and Shots and The Devonshire Arms.
What is the most outrageous thing you have ever done?
Maybe bungee jump (laughs). I was 17 and faked my mom's signature just to jump. I'm an adrenaline junkie.
One last final quote....
Stay away from drugs, kids...(laughs)
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-007-akasha.html
Akasha hails from Lisbon in Portugal originally but has recently moved to London in the UK. She has been a fetish/pinup/alternative model for the past four or five years and is still the very first alternative Portuguese model to be featured in international fetish websites.
She is a strong and independent woman with a taste for the macabre and is very passionate about tattoos, photography and music as well has having a wicked sense of humor! In this grimly fiendish interview you can get inside the twisted mind of this enchantress aka Akasha D'Eville...
You seem to be drawn to the macabre and other fiendish things. Tell me more about that?
I'm a horror fanatic since I was a child and grew up watching those black and white Dracula old movies, so that's why I have this thing about the macabre, blood, gore and vampires. For some people blood might be offensive, for me it's just normal. There is so much more offensive issues like slavery and child abuse...
I really like your fetish stuff and the way you challenge perceptions of what is acceptable or how a 'woman' should look or even behave. Is that a reaction to how mainstream society depicts women or some other reason?
Some women in the fetish area tend to have porn photos ... I like porn, don't get me wrong, but some of my photos are artistic nude, people that know my photos know what I'm talking about... I aprove nude for art, not for porn. A woman can be very sexy shooting fetish erotic photos, it just leaves more to your imagination... beeing a pinup model is about all that, acting sexy and classy without spreading your legs.
Fetish model Akasha D'Eville shows off her sexy body and tattoos
Tell me more about some of the fetish modeling work you have done?
I have been modelling for 4 years now. It all started when a friend, marcoprofanArte, started taking photos of me. The photos turned out pretty good and we started sending them to websites. I got accepted in some websites, refused in others because I wasn't porn enough (laughs). I have shot with Portuguese, American and UK photographers. Some of my last photosets were with the amasing Matt Miller and a multiple photoset with model Lucifera, one of my inspirations (photos taken by Chris Ayres). You can see it all for free on my website Akasha D'Eville
Tell me the story behind your tattoos?
When I turned 18, I made my first tattoo and I never stopped since. Being from Portugal is not like being from the United States. Portugal is a closed minded country and people judge you by your appearance. There aren't many women in Portugal with massive tattoos like me. Fortunatly, the scene is growing and there are alot of good tattoo artists in Portugal. I make all my tattoos in Atomic Tattoo Studio in Lisbon, Portugal. I've known Francisco for many years and we are good friends. He's very talented and one of the best in Portugal.
The meaning of my tattoos: well the tribal colored suns on each arm, one is red because it symbolizes fire, the other is blue because it symbolizes water. These are some Earth - elements we cannot live without. My angel wings are really because I'm an aries and in Chinese culture I'm a horse of fire which is symbolized by an angel. My leopard stars on my feet are just because I love start and leopard print and I've never seen any tattoo like the one on my feet. I tend to be original when it comes to tattoos. My half sleeve on my left arm is inspired on a full sleeve that Tim Kern (from Last Rites Tattoos, works with Paul Booth) made some years ago. The alien has a gas mask because I love gas masks... there's something twisted about them...
Fetish model Akasa shows her sexy body and tattoos
Have you found a good tattoo artist in London yet?
I'm very excited to be going to the London tattoo Convention in October. It's gonna be huge!
About the UK tattoo artist, I've know the work of Mantas, which has this Giger inspired designs and I love Giger. I'll get in touch with him pretty soon to see if I can get some more ink done (laughs)
What projects do you have planned for the next few months?
I will be in The Living Dead Girls Agency soon, going to shoot with Elisabeth Stanton for Beauty in Darkness and also a photoshoot with Distorted Retina.
Where do you usually hang out after dark in London?
In an alley sucking the blood of an innocent human (laughs) kidding, of course. I'm more a bar/pub person than the club scene. I'm into metal and there aren't very good metal clubs in London that play *real* metal (I mean trash, death, black, extreme metal), in my opinion, so I usually just chill out at the Crobar, The Intrepid Fox, Garlics and Shots and The Devonshire Arms.
What is the most outrageous thing you have ever done?
Maybe bungee jump (laughs). I was 17 and faked my mom's signature just to jump. I'm an adrenaline junkie.
One last final quote....
Stay away from drugs, kids...(laughs)
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/tattoos-007-akasha.html
Biker Tattoos
Hot Metal and Skulls 'n' Bones
When most people think of bikers they think of gang members with menacing biker tattoos. The reality is that biker gangs only represent 1% of actual bikers. We have all heard of The Nomads and Gypsy Jokers who represent the outlaw side of bikers. The ones you see whizzing past you on the freeway most likely are biker enthusiasts. Having said that the sound of fifty Harley Davidson bikes in your rear view mirror can be daunting!
Bikers have long since being misaligned in the public eye and are constantly on the receiving end of bad press. The ones you hear about are the One Percenters as they are known by biker enthusiasts. Their world is one of turf wars, conflict with police and criminal activity including the manufacturing of speed and ice.
Biker tattoos.
Biker shows off his tattoos © Lord Hatred
People join bikers gangs such as the outlaw motorcycle club for many different reasons. One of the main things was the brotherhood or comradeship. It's similar to the army or anything like that, with discipline and codes of honour. The main reason seems to be freedom - the freedom of the biker lifestyle, and most of all, the freedom of the open road. All bikers crave the same thing - the pure adrenaline rush of two wheels at high speed.
The image is of freedom but the reality is of harsh discipline from the club to enforce its rules. Arthur Veno has spent 20 years studying and associating with the clubs. According to his research, new recruits are from lower-working-class or underclass backgrounds, looking for stability.
Burmese bikers on Harley Davidson showing tattoos. Burmese guys at a Harley convention © Philippe - Geneva, Switzerland
Those rules are things like you're not to touch another member's wife or partner, no backing out on fights, if you see one person fighting, it's got to be everybody in. No use of heroin in particular seems to be the rule. No missing 'church', which is their equivalent of their meeting, which occurs every week.
Club rules vary, but most have been adapted from those of the Hell's Angels in the US. The clubs themselves are generally not involved with criminal activities as such. There is, however, no doubt that individual members within the clubs are involved in criminal activities.
Skulls are popular tattoos for bikers. Skulls are popular tattoos for bikers © Sarah - Bristol, England
Everyone has their own perception or biker gangs whether or not that it is the right perception. A lot of people have the wrong perceptions of bikers not helped by the generally scary imagery favored by bikers as tattoos. Generally the perception of bikers as being violent thugs is one of misperception.
Biker tattoos usually depict the biker gang the biker belongs to. Skull and dice tattoos are can often be seen on bikers along with fantasy style and Norse tattoos depicting mythical creatures. As mentioned earlier it is hard to tell the difference between bikers who belong in gangs and those who are weekend enthusiasts who are retired or work in the corporate world. Just be careful when chatting to that burly dude at the bar next time...
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/biker-tattoos.html
When most people think of bikers they think of gang members with menacing biker tattoos. The reality is that biker gangs only represent 1% of actual bikers. We have all heard of The Nomads and Gypsy Jokers who represent the outlaw side of bikers. The ones you see whizzing past you on the freeway most likely are biker enthusiasts. Having said that the sound of fifty Harley Davidson bikes in your rear view mirror can be daunting!
Bikers have long since being misaligned in the public eye and are constantly on the receiving end of bad press. The ones you hear about are the One Percenters as they are known by biker enthusiasts. Their world is one of turf wars, conflict with police and criminal activity including the manufacturing of speed and ice.
Biker tattoos.
Biker shows off his tattoos © Lord Hatred
People join bikers gangs such as the outlaw motorcycle club for many different reasons. One of the main things was the brotherhood or comradeship. It's similar to the army or anything like that, with discipline and codes of honour. The main reason seems to be freedom - the freedom of the biker lifestyle, and most of all, the freedom of the open road. All bikers crave the same thing - the pure adrenaline rush of two wheels at high speed.
The image is of freedom but the reality is of harsh discipline from the club to enforce its rules. Arthur Veno has spent 20 years studying and associating with the clubs. According to his research, new recruits are from lower-working-class or underclass backgrounds, looking for stability.
Burmese bikers on Harley Davidson showing tattoos. Burmese guys at a Harley convention © Philippe - Geneva, Switzerland
Those rules are things like you're not to touch another member's wife or partner, no backing out on fights, if you see one person fighting, it's got to be everybody in. No use of heroin in particular seems to be the rule. No missing 'church', which is their equivalent of their meeting, which occurs every week.
Club rules vary, but most have been adapted from those of the Hell's Angels in the US. The clubs themselves are generally not involved with criminal activities as such. There is, however, no doubt that individual members within the clubs are involved in criminal activities.
Skulls are popular tattoos for bikers. Skulls are popular tattoos for bikers © Sarah - Bristol, England
Everyone has their own perception or biker gangs whether or not that it is the right perception. A lot of people have the wrong perceptions of bikers not helped by the generally scary imagery favored by bikers as tattoos. Generally the perception of bikers as being violent thugs is one of misperception.
Biker tattoos usually depict the biker gang the biker belongs to. Skull and dice tattoos are can often be seen on bikers along with fantasy style and Norse tattoos depicting mythical creatures. As mentioned earlier it is hard to tell the difference between bikers who belong in gangs and those who are weekend enthusiasts who are retired or work in the corporate world. Just be careful when chatting to that burly dude at the bar next time...
http://www.tao-of-tattoos.com/biker-tattoos.html
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Soldiers And Tattoo's - Getting Rid of the Pain - Tattoo Designs
They are common amongst our heroes fallen and coming home. Tattoo's have made their mark since back in the stone age and have become common place amongst soldiers, prisoners, young teens and almost all demographics have thought about a tattoo or they have one.
So are tattoo's comfort for pain for our soldiers in Iraq? Well I think so. They are getting a tattoo before they enter the war and when they come home they get another tattoo that is totally opposite of the first tattoo. War changes a person and in turn they express those changes they have went through with a new, well thought out tattoo.
The new soldiers tattoo could be of a fallen soldiers name, a picture of the Devil or the sleeve tattoo which symbolizes to the soldiers their struggle to come to grips with the war. Some tattoo artist's have said that some of the nearby Marines close to their shop have asked for a Death Dealer. The Death Dealer is a skeleton holding the ace of spades this relates to them ready to go to war and them being ready to kill.
You know when you think about all of this with the tattoo's and war time they both seem to go together. Every time a soldier enters the military that soldier will get a tattoo in most cases of his branch of service. So if the soldier is a Marine then they will get a tattoo related to their service in the Military.
Miami Ink hard to find Tattoo's. Awesome Miami Ink Tattoo's and great tribal designs, skulls, body art and lots more.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Soldiers-And-Tattoos---Getting-Rid-of-the-Pain---Tattoo-Designs&id=576417
So are tattoo's comfort for pain for our soldiers in Iraq? Well I think so. They are getting a tattoo before they enter the war and when they come home they get another tattoo that is totally opposite of the first tattoo. War changes a person and in turn they express those changes they have went through with a new, well thought out tattoo.
The new soldiers tattoo could be of a fallen soldiers name, a picture of the Devil or the sleeve tattoo which symbolizes to the soldiers their struggle to come to grips with the war. Some tattoo artist's have said that some of the nearby Marines close to their shop have asked for a Death Dealer. The Death Dealer is a skeleton holding the ace of spades this relates to them ready to go to war and them being ready to kill.
You know when you think about all of this with the tattoo's and war time they both seem to go together. Every time a soldier enters the military that soldier will get a tattoo in most cases of his branch of service. So if the soldier is a Marine then they will get a tattoo related to their service in the Military.
Miami Ink hard to find Tattoo's. Awesome Miami Ink Tattoo's and great tribal designs, skulls, body art and lots more.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Soldiers-And-Tattoos---Getting-Rid-of-the-Pain---Tattoo-Designs&id=576417
Tattoo Designs- Dragon Tattoo's & Japanese Tattoo's - Tattoo Pictures
What is it when it comes to getting tattoo's that some folks just can not get enough of? Is it the self expression? Is it the feeling of being a bad mo' fo? Or do some folks just like pain?
I will tell you why I think some folks get tattoo's. It is a combination of all of the above. Some people like to get a tattoo because of the feeling of letting out their emotions. Tattoo's can give you a great release of emotion after a family members death some folks will get "In Memory Of" tattoo's.
Tattoo's such as Dragons and Japanese Tattoo's give some people the feeling of power and strength, others it is apart of their heritage. So no matter what when the first tattoo known to be put in the skins pigment was over 5000 years ago that tattoo meant something to that person.
Tattoo designs range from crosses to monkeys and asses. So now matter what the meaning of the tattoo design just make sure that you give your tattoo artist a clear meaning of what you are trying to achieve from your tattoo.
Ask the tattoo artist questions about where they think the best place for you to place the tattoo. Ask the artist how long they have been doing tattoo's and make sure that you bring plenty of magazine clippings, drawings and your ideas so you can give the tattoo artist a clear feel of what kind of tattoo that you are wanting.
Tattoo Pictures, monkey tattoo's, Dragon tattoo's, and many more Tattoo Designs and Tribal Tattoo's. So come check out our many tattoo pictures.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Tattoo-Designs--Dragon-Tattoos-and-Japanese-Tattoos---Tattoo-Pictures&id=577208
I will tell you why I think some folks get tattoo's. It is a combination of all of the above. Some people like to get a tattoo because of the feeling of letting out their emotions. Tattoo's can give you a great release of emotion after a family members death some folks will get "In Memory Of" tattoo's.
Tattoo's such as Dragons and Japanese Tattoo's give some people the feeling of power and strength, others it is apart of their heritage. So no matter what when the first tattoo known to be put in the skins pigment was over 5000 years ago that tattoo meant something to that person.
Tattoo designs range from crosses to monkeys and asses. So now matter what the meaning of the tattoo design just make sure that you give your tattoo artist a clear meaning of what you are trying to achieve from your tattoo.
Ask the tattoo artist questions about where they think the best place for you to place the tattoo. Ask the artist how long they have been doing tattoo's and make sure that you bring plenty of magazine clippings, drawings and your ideas so you can give the tattoo artist a clear feel of what kind of tattoo that you are wanting.
Tattoo Pictures, monkey tattoo's, Dragon tattoo's, and many more Tattoo Designs and Tribal Tattoo's. So come check out our many tattoo pictures.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Tattoo-Designs--Dragon-Tattoos-and-Japanese-Tattoos---Tattoo-Pictures&id=577208
SOYOUWANNA GET A TATTOO?
2. CHOOSE A TATTOO ARTIST
There are three main concerns when choosing a tattoo artist:
1. Is he or she any good?
2. Do you feel comfortable talking to him or her?
3. Can you afford it?
Is he or she any good?
The only way to tell whether or not an artist is good is to see examples of his or her work. Recommendations are helpful, of course, but the recommendations should carry infinitely more weight if the recommender is proffering a tattooed example of the artist's work. There are plenty of awesome artists out there who, though you wouldn't deny their skills, just don't appeal to you with the style of tats they do. So don't take anyone else's word for it – get a look at the artist's work yourself. Furthermore, and don't start thinking we're paranoid, but it's best to see actual examples of the work on a live person who can tell you who did the work. Anyone can put up a bunch of pictures and claim authorship.
You can meet people and talk to them about their tattoos at tattoo conventions, in the tattoo studios you visit and on the street or at a club, so long as you're not an idiot about it. People are usually proud of their tattoos, and if you seem genuinely interested a lot of people will be happy to tell you about their ink. Tattoo magazines are also a good source for information. The photo-essays they publish about various artists are likely to be well-researched and legitimate examples of the artists' work. There are also websites, such as TattooStudios.com, which show examples of artists' work. The key is to shop around and find someone really capable, because the quality of your tattoo depends so much on the talent of the tattoo artist.
Do you feel comfortable talking to him or her?
This is important for safety reasons, of course, but it's also important because you have to communicate what you want in a tattoo. If you don't feel comfortable talking to your tattoo artist, it's not likely that you'll get what you want. You don't have to be best buddies with the artist, but you need to be able to talk to him or her without reserve and with some certainty that your desires will be met.
Can you afford it?
As you shop around for a good tattoo artist, you are likely to find several whose work really appeals to you. Whether you can afford them is another matter, but something you must take into account. They will not necessarily live in the same city as you, and even if they do, they might charge a lot of money for their work. Before you get too far into it, you should figure out if it's really feasible for you to work with a certain artist. You might want to call an artist to get a general idea of what your tattoo would cost -- some artists will give you a rough idea over the phone, but some won't. If the artist lives far away, you're likely to have to pay for plane fare, a hotel and the cost of the tattoo. Don't bother getting all worked up about being tattooed by a certain person, and don't waste either of your time, if you can't afford to pay all the necessary costs.
The cost of getting a tattoo varies from artist to artist. Popular artists can charge more, while incompetent or inexperienced artists will be cheaper. Artists will usually charge a flat rate for their flash designs, and this will depend on the size and color of the design. You can expect to pay approximately $50 to $100 for a "flash" (a stock piece; see "Styles of tattoos" in section 3) piece of about two square inches. For custom work, artists will usually charge by the hour, but they might negotiate prices with you ahead of time based on how difficult the design is and how long they think it will take. The hourly rate for custom work ranges from $50 to $300. Don't go for bargains. A cheap tattoo will look cheap. You should try to find an artist who charges between $100 and $150 per hour. If money is no object and you simply must have a popular, expensive artist work on you, then go ahead and spend more.
http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/tattoo/tattoo2.html
There are three main concerns when choosing a tattoo artist:
1. Is he or she any good?
2. Do you feel comfortable talking to him or her?
3. Can you afford it?
Is he or she any good?
The only way to tell whether or not an artist is good is to see examples of his or her work. Recommendations are helpful, of course, but the recommendations should carry infinitely more weight if the recommender is proffering a tattooed example of the artist's work. There are plenty of awesome artists out there who, though you wouldn't deny their skills, just don't appeal to you with the style of tats they do. So don't take anyone else's word for it – get a look at the artist's work yourself. Furthermore, and don't start thinking we're paranoid, but it's best to see actual examples of the work on a live person who can tell you who did the work. Anyone can put up a bunch of pictures and claim authorship.
You can meet people and talk to them about their tattoos at tattoo conventions, in the tattoo studios you visit and on the street or at a club, so long as you're not an idiot about it. People are usually proud of their tattoos, and if you seem genuinely interested a lot of people will be happy to tell you about their ink. Tattoo magazines are also a good source for information. The photo-essays they publish about various artists are likely to be well-researched and legitimate examples of the artists' work. There are also websites, such as TattooStudios.com, which show examples of artists' work. The key is to shop around and find someone really capable, because the quality of your tattoo depends so much on the talent of the tattoo artist.
Do you feel comfortable talking to him or her?
This is important for safety reasons, of course, but it's also important because you have to communicate what you want in a tattoo. If you don't feel comfortable talking to your tattoo artist, it's not likely that you'll get what you want. You don't have to be best buddies with the artist, but you need to be able to talk to him or her without reserve and with some certainty that your desires will be met.
Can you afford it?
As you shop around for a good tattoo artist, you are likely to find several whose work really appeals to you. Whether you can afford them is another matter, but something you must take into account. They will not necessarily live in the same city as you, and even if they do, they might charge a lot of money for their work. Before you get too far into it, you should figure out if it's really feasible for you to work with a certain artist. You might want to call an artist to get a general idea of what your tattoo would cost -- some artists will give you a rough idea over the phone, but some won't. If the artist lives far away, you're likely to have to pay for plane fare, a hotel and the cost of the tattoo. Don't bother getting all worked up about being tattooed by a certain person, and don't waste either of your time, if you can't afford to pay all the necessary costs.
The cost of getting a tattoo varies from artist to artist. Popular artists can charge more, while incompetent or inexperienced artists will be cheaper. Artists will usually charge a flat rate for their flash designs, and this will depend on the size and color of the design. You can expect to pay approximately $50 to $100 for a "flash" (a stock piece; see "Styles of tattoos" in section 3) piece of about two square inches. For custom work, artists will usually charge by the hour, but they might negotiate prices with you ahead of time based on how difficult the design is and how long they think it will take. The hourly rate for custom work ranges from $50 to $300. Don't go for bargains. A cheap tattoo will look cheap. You should try to find an artist who charges between $100 and $150 per hour. If money is no object and you simply must have a popular, expensive artist work on you, then go ahead and spend more.
http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/tattoo/tattoo2.html
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Flower tattoos
Flowers tattoos have a great deal with symbolism. Flowers are seen as the symbols of various kinds of emotional and divine feelings. As there are every flower has a different meaning which is given on arose day. Flower tattoos are the symbolization of characteristics for a people who love to express him in symbols. So when it comes to flower tattoos those tattoos are the broad range of symbolization through the expression of flower’s beauty, innocence or motivation.
We use words for our explanations and emotions but there are some feelings which are far beyond the words and thinking, those are just feelings, which you can only feel and be happy. Feeling which are tough to express in words sometimes comes very simple in symbols it is language somehow like the expression of understanding, which is, not spoke but still understood by the nature of feeling. As there is a red rose which express the feeling of love and yellow one symbolizes the warmness of friendship. So as there are various kinds of flowers for various kinds of expressions.
Flowers tattoos are just seen and expressed, there is nothing left to speak, nothings needs the words. Flowers are beautiful, that beauty come from the nature, when one uses the flower tattoos, just a symbol utilizes the effect of nature it shows the strength of nature. So it makes a better atmosphere around, where ever it is.
There is a lotus, which erects in mud and marsh. From the deep mud it comes out slowly to the world, when it has the journey completed to come out of mud, it starts going towards light and it’s blossom make the world happy. A lotus tattoo symbolizes the struggle with the conditions; the wish to go towards light and the strength to bloom the world. Overall it gets motivated to do something and that is the importance of tattoos.
Lotus tattoos makes the importance as that is seen is Japanese culture where Koi fish is a symbolization of strength and individuality This symbol nay often be seen in front of the temples and it has an special importance in Buddhism.
Flower tattoos are very common and most liked tattoos now. Various kinds of flower tattoos symbolize different things. There are various reasons for selection of a particular flower tattoo, as some times it is selected for the reasons of culture and divinity, sometimes it symbolizes the characteristics of personality and sometimes it is liked because flower are the sign of beauty and innocence.
Tattoo culture has a broad range now as there are regularly increasing the craze of tattoos, flower tattoos have their own importance. Flower has always been an important factor for the feelings and expressions. In form of tattoos they represents those feeling for a person to all others. Flower tattoos have the strength and power to attract and make a proper hit in mind for the instant. So flower tattoo are getting common and the beauty of nature is being represented in form of symbolic tattoos.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/flower-tattoos.html
We use words for our explanations and emotions but there are some feelings which are far beyond the words and thinking, those are just feelings, which you can only feel and be happy. Feeling which are tough to express in words sometimes comes very simple in symbols it is language somehow like the expression of understanding, which is, not spoke but still understood by the nature of feeling. As there is a red rose which express the feeling of love and yellow one symbolizes the warmness of friendship. So as there are various kinds of flowers for various kinds of expressions.
Flowers tattoos are just seen and expressed, there is nothing left to speak, nothings needs the words. Flowers are beautiful, that beauty come from the nature, when one uses the flower tattoos, just a symbol utilizes the effect of nature it shows the strength of nature. So it makes a better atmosphere around, where ever it is.
There is a lotus, which erects in mud and marsh. From the deep mud it comes out slowly to the world, when it has the journey completed to come out of mud, it starts going towards light and it’s blossom make the world happy. A lotus tattoo symbolizes the struggle with the conditions; the wish to go towards light and the strength to bloom the world. Overall it gets motivated to do something and that is the importance of tattoos.
Lotus tattoos makes the importance as that is seen is Japanese culture where Koi fish is a symbolization of strength and individuality This symbol nay often be seen in front of the temples and it has an special importance in Buddhism.
Flower tattoos are very common and most liked tattoos now. Various kinds of flower tattoos symbolize different things. There are various reasons for selection of a particular flower tattoo, as some times it is selected for the reasons of culture and divinity, sometimes it symbolizes the characteristics of personality and sometimes it is liked because flower are the sign of beauty and innocence.
Tattoo culture has a broad range now as there are regularly increasing the craze of tattoos, flower tattoos have their own importance. Flower has always been an important factor for the feelings and expressions. In form of tattoos they represents those feeling for a person to all others. Flower tattoos have the strength and power to attract and make a proper hit in mind for the instant. So flower tattoo are getting common and the beauty of nature is being represented in form of symbolic tattoos.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/flower-tattoos.html
Butterfly Tattoo Designs
Butterfly tattoo designs are some of the most wonderful symbols of beauty. These butterfly tattoos also have deeper meanings to them as well.
Butterfly tattoo designs are for those who want to have a small tasteful tattoo put on their bodies that is appealing to one of the opposite sex. Areas of interest to those who want to show off their natural beauty by adding a butterfly tattoo to include the lower back, buttocks, shin area, sides of upper arms, breast and chest areas, and on the upper back. When these beautiful butterfly tattoo designs are strategically places they can make one look more attractive and adventurous without being overtly obnoxious in most cases.
Butterfly tattoo art has a deeper meaning as well. The butterfly has been known by ancient cultures to be a symbol of the impermanence and instability of human life. This can be represented in the metaphor of someone being called “flighty” or a “social butterfly.” These are people that are often here today and gone tomorrow.
However, this may not always be necessarily though of as a bad thing, just a fact of life. The truth is that the human race really is “here today and gone tomorrow”. Therefore, the butterfly symbolizes the brevity of that flight. Not only does this represent the impermanence of the human race but of all of life here on earth. Butterfly tattoo art can represent a similar meaning as well in its beauty and expression.
This impermanence of earthly life represented by the butterfly-or butterfly tattoo art-has a more eternal ending, however. The metamorphosis of the caterpillar to a butterfly is thought to represent the change from an earthly body to a heavenly one. Along with that the Greek culture, for example, uses butterfly wings to represent the human soul or psyche, and some ancient cultures believe that animals have an eternal destiny as well.
Women are most noted for having Butterfly tattoo designs etched onto their bodies. However, butterfly tattoos can be unisex-for both men and women. The best way to find butterfly tattoo designs is to search for them on the Internet or at a local tattoo shop. Butterfly tattoo art is considered both beautiful as well as symbolic.
Butterfly tattoo art as well as other types of tattoo art can take quite awhile and involve small amounts of pain. Therefore, when searching for a place to have a tattoo done one should make sure it is a place that is very clean and has a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Those seeking tattoos should beware of tattoo places that appear to be very dirty or not properly licensed. Furthermore, usually those seeking a tattoo have to be at least 18 years old in most places, depending upon the country or state a person lives in.
Furthermore, those seeking tattoos should pick a place that employs experts who either are experienced in drawing butterfly tattoos or has butterfly artwork samples for customer viewing. This will provide for the best butter tattoo art experience as possible.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Designs/butterfly-tattoo.html
Butterfly tattoo designs are for those who want to have a small tasteful tattoo put on their bodies that is appealing to one of the opposite sex. Areas of interest to those who want to show off their natural beauty by adding a butterfly tattoo to include the lower back, buttocks, shin area, sides of upper arms, breast and chest areas, and on the upper back. When these beautiful butterfly tattoo designs are strategically places they can make one look more attractive and adventurous without being overtly obnoxious in most cases.
Butterfly tattoo art has a deeper meaning as well. The butterfly has been known by ancient cultures to be a symbol of the impermanence and instability of human life. This can be represented in the metaphor of someone being called “flighty” or a “social butterfly.” These are people that are often here today and gone tomorrow.
However, this may not always be necessarily though of as a bad thing, just a fact of life. The truth is that the human race really is “here today and gone tomorrow”. Therefore, the butterfly symbolizes the brevity of that flight. Not only does this represent the impermanence of the human race but of all of life here on earth. Butterfly tattoo art can represent a similar meaning as well in its beauty and expression.
This impermanence of earthly life represented by the butterfly-or butterfly tattoo art-has a more eternal ending, however. The metamorphosis of the caterpillar to a butterfly is thought to represent the change from an earthly body to a heavenly one. Along with that the Greek culture, for example, uses butterfly wings to represent the human soul or psyche, and some ancient cultures believe that animals have an eternal destiny as well.
Women are most noted for having Butterfly tattoo designs etched onto their bodies. However, butterfly tattoos can be unisex-for both men and women. The best way to find butterfly tattoo designs is to search for them on the Internet or at a local tattoo shop. Butterfly tattoo art is considered both beautiful as well as symbolic.
Butterfly tattoo art as well as other types of tattoo art can take quite awhile and involve small amounts of pain. Therefore, when searching for a place to have a tattoo done one should make sure it is a place that is very clean and has a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Those seeking tattoos should beware of tattoo places that appear to be very dirty or not properly licensed. Furthermore, usually those seeking a tattoo have to be at least 18 years old in most places, depending upon the country or state a person lives in.
Furthermore, those seeking tattoos should pick a place that employs experts who either are experienced in drawing butterfly tattoos or has butterfly artwork samples for customer viewing. This will provide for the best butter tattoo art experience as possible.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Designs/butterfly-tattoo.html
Sun Tattoos Meaning
The sun is, in any culture, one of the highest regarded symbols of humanity.
In any mythology, you will find that the sun is depicted as one of the highest in a pantheon of gods.
The sun gives light, heat and life. Ancient civilizations revered it as a symbol of fertility, vitality, and every other quality that gives way to life.
The sun symbol can be seen everywhere nowadays. Knowingly or unknowingly, people have incorporated the revered sun-design on many common objects we see today.
Look at the design of an electric fan; that looks a lot like a sun design, right? Look at the overhead view of the Vatican, a common birthday cake, a coin, a pancake: the round sun symbol can be seen everywhere.
Sun tattoos are sought after because they take the round sun symbols and use it to depict so much more.
There are a whole lot of varieties of sun tattoos: rayed, plain circle, paired with a moon, gothic, tribal, Celtic… the list just goes on and on!!! As said before, each culture has its own depiction of the sun and hey, there are a lot of cultures (including the ancient ones) that exist.
The sun tattoo is preferred by many because it has a number of symbolic meanings that can be adapted by every person.
Some may choose a sun tattoo because of the symbolism of light and knowledge. Often, the sun tattoo can be interpreted as the light of knowledge that shines on the darkness of ignorance. This interpretation is, naturally, preferred by intellectuals.
For others, the sun represents the cycle of life. These people get sun tattoos to remind them to live everyday as if the sunset is fast approaching. They live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment possible.
After all, every second counts, right?
Some interpret sun tattoos as a symbol of fertility. The sun gives life to plants and, indeed, everything else on earth. Sun tattoos are often chosen to depict a person’s ability to “energize’ other people.
Much deeper, and yet, more popular, is the interpretation of the sun tattoo as a symbol of sexual fertility. This goes back to ancient Canaan where the sun-god Baal was also worshiped as a fertility deity.
If paired with a moon tattoo, the sun tattoo even goes deeper into its sexual interpretation. A pairing of a moon and a sun tattoo depicts the union between male and female, both sexually and spiritually.
Sun tattoos are often used to depict divine power and authority. The image of the sun was used, and is still used, by religious leaders.
The sun tattoo also symbolizes immortality or reincarnation. Just as the sun rises and sets each day, people believe in the idea that you may die and then rise again.
This takes root from ancient times when people believed that the sun died at the sunset and was resurrected the next day.
Sometimes, sun tattoos look more like flowers. The depiction of the sun as such pays homage to the sun’s life-giving abilities and natural beauty.
Sun tattoos are considered to be among the best kind of tattoos you can get. Artistically, people may have taken the drawing of the sun to a very high level. After all, we all learn how to draw the sun at a very young age.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/58.html
In any mythology, you will find that the sun is depicted as one of the highest in a pantheon of gods.
The sun gives light, heat and life. Ancient civilizations revered it as a symbol of fertility, vitality, and every other quality that gives way to life.
The sun symbol can be seen everywhere nowadays. Knowingly or unknowingly, people have incorporated the revered sun-design on many common objects we see today.
Look at the design of an electric fan; that looks a lot like a sun design, right? Look at the overhead view of the Vatican, a common birthday cake, a coin, a pancake: the round sun symbol can be seen everywhere.
Sun tattoos are sought after because they take the round sun symbols and use it to depict so much more.
There are a whole lot of varieties of sun tattoos: rayed, plain circle, paired with a moon, gothic, tribal, Celtic… the list just goes on and on!!! As said before, each culture has its own depiction of the sun and hey, there are a lot of cultures (including the ancient ones) that exist.
The sun tattoo is preferred by many because it has a number of symbolic meanings that can be adapted by every person.
Some may choose a sun tattoo because of the symbolism of light and knowledge. Often, the sun tattoo can be interpreted as the light of knowledge that shines on the darkness of ignorance. This interpretation is, naturally, preferred by intellectuals.
For others, the sun represents the cycle of life. These people get sun tattoos to remind them to live everyday as if the sunset is fast approaching. They live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment possible.
After all, every second counts, right?
Some interpret sun tattoos as a symbol of fertility. The sun gives life to plants and, indeed, everything else on earth. Sun tattoos are often chosen to depict a person’s ability to “energize’ other people.
Much deeper, and yet, more popular, is the interpretation of the sun tattoo as a symbol of sexual fertility. This goes back to ancient Canaan where the sun-god Baal was also worshiped as a fertility deity.
If paired with a moon tattoo, the sun tattoo even goes deeper into its sexual interpretation. A pairing of a moon and a sun tattoo depicts the union between male and female, both sexually and spiritually.
Sun tattoos are often used to depict divine power and authority. The image of the sun was used, and is still used, by religious leaders.
The sun tattoo also symbolizes immortality or reincarnation. Just as the sun rises and sets each day, people believe in the idea that you may die and then rise again.
This takes root from ancient times when people believed that the sun died at the sunset and was resurrected the next day.
Sometimes, sun tattoos look more like flowers. The depiction of the sun as such pays homage to the sun’s life-giving abilities and natural beauty.
Sun tattoos are considered to be among the best kind of tattoos you can get. Artistically, people may have taken the drawing of the sun to a very high level. After all, we all learn how to draw the sun at a very young age.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/58.html
Where to Find Polynesian Tattoo Galleries
Lately interests in Polynesian tattoos have increased. People turn to Polynesian tattoo galleries and designs because of the fact that they are steeped in tradition and lore.
The designs of Polynesian tattoos also look cool, allowing people to interpret their symbolism a number of different ways.
So, are you interested in getting a Polynesian tattoo? Well, you need to look at some Polynesian tattoo galleries in order to decide what you want to get first.
Where do you find these Polynesian tattoo galleries?
Well, you can try looking for some from the tattoo artist. Some tattoo artists have Polynesian tattoo galleries available for you to choose from.
Some tattoo artists will even go to the length of explaining to you what the different Polynesian tattoo galleries signify and the symbolism behind the different images.
However, as you may realize, there is a far better way of accessing Polynesian tattoo galleries. This way is through the internet.
The internet contains the largest collection of data and information available today.
With the internet, you can access any information on Polynesian tattoo galleries you like.
However, the vastness of cyberspace can work as a double-edged sword. Because of the large amount of information available on the internet, you are sure to find information regarding Polynesian tattoo galleries. However, this same quality also means you can get lost in the internet pretty easily.
Here’s a quick guide of some sites that offer information on Polynesian tattoo galleries to help you out.
tahititatou.com – This site possibly offers you the most comprehensive information regarding Polynesian tattoos. It offers you Polynesian tattoo galleries, contact details of tattoo artists, meanings behind popular tattoos and other features.
This site also offers you a brief history of Polynesian tattoos, so you can get a more in-depth look at the meanings behind Polynesian tattoo galleries.
One of the fun offerings of this site is that you can order temporary tattoos from them.
The site is probably the best because it actually has connections with tattoo artists who specialize in Polynesian tattoos. This gives you access to a vast number of Polynesian tattoo galleries, and designs available out there.
tattoo-johnny.com – The Polynesian tattoo galleries offered by this website may not be as comprehensive as other websites but it still offers valuable information on popular symbols.
This site also offers you helpful hints on how to create your own tattoo design based on their Polynesian tattoo gallery.
They also offer tips on what tattoo designs to combine and what meaning they might express when appearing together.
This gives you an idea of the general symbolism behind popular Polynesian tattoo galleries.
vanishingtattoo.com/tattoos_designs_symbols_m.htm – This site offers you a brief but meaningful insight into the world of Polynesian tattoos. It is probably one of the best-researched tattoo sites out there, and you can check out the symbolic interpretations of many common tattoos. It links to some of the best Polynesian tattoo galleries available out there.
This provides you with extensive information regarding the different styles of Polynesian tattoos and gives you access to more Polynesian tattoo galleries.
So, there you go. Those are just some of the sites in the internet where you can find information regarding Polynesian tattoo galleries. All you need to do is choose. And choice, my friend, is the best thing you can have.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/57.html
The designs of Polynesian tattoos also look cool, allowing people to interpret their symbolism a number of different ways.
So, are you interested in getting a Polynesian tattoo? Well, you need to look at some Polynesian tattoo galleries in order to decide what you want to get first.
Where do you find these Polynesian tattoo galleries?
Well, you can try looking for some from the tattoo artist. Some tattoo artists have Polynesian tattoo galleries available for you to choose from.
Some tattoo artists will even go to the length of explaining to you what the different Polynesian tattoo galleries signify and the symbolism behind the different images.
However, as you may realize, there is a far better way of accessing Polynesian tattoo galleries. This way is through the internet.
The internet contains the largest collection of data and information available today.
With the internet, you can access any information on Polynesian tattoo galleries you like.
However, the vastness of cyberspace can work as a double-edged sword. Because of the large amount of information available on the internet, you are sure to find information regarding Polynesian tattoo galleries. However, this same quality also means you can get lost in the internet pretty easily.
Here’s a quick guide of some sites that offer information on Polynesian tattoo galleries to help you out.
tahititatou.com – This site possibly offers you the most comprehensive information regarding Polynesian tattoos. It offers you Polynesian tattoo galleries, contact details of tattoo artists, meanings behind popular tattoos and other features.
This site also offers you a brief history of Polynesian tattoos, so you can get a more in-depth look at the meanings behind Polynesian tattoo galleries.
One of the fun offerings of this site is that you can order temporary tattoos from them.
The site is probably the best because it actually has connections with tattoo artists who specialize in Polynesian tattoos. This gives you access to a vast number of Polynesian tattoo galleries, and designs available out there.
tattoo-johnny.com – The Polynesian tattoo galleries offered by this website may not be as comprehensive as other websites but it still offers valuable information on popular symbols.
This site also offers you helpful hints on how to create your own tattoo design based on their Polynesian tattoo gallery.
They also offer tips on what tattoo designs to combine and what meaning they might express when appearing together.
This gives you an idea of the general symbolism behind popular Polynesian tattoo galleries.
vanishingtattoo.com/tattoos_designs_symbols_m.htm – This site offers you a brief but meaningful insight into the world of Polynesian tattoos. It is probably one of the best-researched tattoo sites out there, and you can check out the symbolic interpretations of many common tattoos. It links to some of the best Polynesian tattoo galleries available out there.
This provides you with extensive information regarding the different styles of Polynesian tattoos and gives you access to more Polynesian tattoo galleries.
So, there you go. Those are just some of the sites in the internet where you can find information regarding Polynesian tattoo galleries. All you need to do is choose. And choice, my friend, is the best thing you can have.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/57.html
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Where Should I Place My Tattoo?
When you have your whole body for a canvas it is difficult to choose the perfect spot, and knowing it is a lifelong decision can seem daunting. There are things everyone should take into consideration when making your individual choice, and when you have made it you should stop thinking and just do it!
Do you know what you want your tattoo to be a picture of? This is obviously the first decision to make for most people, and there are thousands of designs to choose from. Some people like to design their own tattoo, and others have a symbol or picture that has been meaningful to them their whole life. It is also not uncommon for words to be used in tattoo designs, and partner's or children's names are popular. If you already have a particular tattoo in mind like an arm band for example, you wont need to worry about a picture but will need to find a pattern instead.
With your picture chosen it will be a matter of how big or small you want it to be. Some tattoos cover a large area such as the back, but the majority are smaller like on the calf or shoulder. Commonly women choose smaller tattoos that are pictures, where as men will choose whole scenes that run down their arms, legs, back or chest. Bear in mind when you choose your picture and size that tattoos do hurt while being done, and the bigger it is the more painful it will be. It is also more painful if your tattoo has lots of multiple colors or if you choose an area that is close to the bone.
You might want to consider the placement of your tattoo at the same time as working out the size. If the idea is to have a tattoo on your ankle it probably wont be suitable to choose a scene out of Lord of the Rings, for example. Do you want your tattoo to be hidden or in plain view? Do you want to be able to cover it sometimes but show it off at others? If you choose a controversial picture, you might prefer to have it hidden, where as decorative bands are usually in clear view to everyone.
Women will often choose a feminine tattoo, placed in a curve or spot on their body they like drawing attention to. Small, round, Celtic symbols on the lower back, a butterfly inside the wrist or a chain of roses around the nipple can all be very sensuous and appealing to the opposite sex. There are always going to be people who dislike tattoos all together, but the best thing to do if you want one is to go out and get it. After all, it is your body, and you only live once in it, so give it some thought but don’t be afraid to be spontaneous either!
Jack Lan is a Tattoo Expert who specialize in designing exclusive body tattoo designs and market them online. Visit his website to view 50,000 over tattoo design and remember to sign up for his newsletter to receive the latest tips on body tattoo for free. http://www.bodytattoodesign.com
http://ezinearticles.com/?Where-Should-I-Place-My-Tattoo?&id=557751
Do you know what you want your tattoo to be a picture of? This is obviously the first decision to make for most people, and there are thousands of designs to choose from. Some people like to design their own tattoo, and others have a symbol or picture that has been meaningful to them their whole life. It is also not uncommon for words to be used in tattoo designs, and partner's or children's names are popular. If you already have a particular tattoo in mind like an arm band for example, you wont need to worry about a picture but will need to find a pattern instead.
With your picture chosen it will be a matter of how big or small you want it to be. Some tattoos cover a large area such as the back, but the majority are smaller like on the calf or shoulder. Commonly women choose smaller tattoos that are pictures, where as men will choose whole scenes that run down their arms, legs, back or chest. Bear in mind when you choose your picture and size that tattoos do hurt while being done, and the bigger it is the more painful it will be. It is also more painful if your tattoo has lots of multiple colors or if you choose an area that is close to the bone.
You might want to consider the placement of your tattoo at the same time as working out the size. If the idea is to have a tattoo on your ankle it probably wont be suitable to choose a scene out of Lord of the Rings, for example. Do you want your tattoo to be hidden or in plain view? Do you want to be able to cover it sometimes but show it off at others? If you choose a controversial picture, you might prefer to have it hidden, where as decorative bands are usually in clear view to everyone.
Women will often choose a feminine tattoo, placed in a curve or spot on their body they like drawing attention to. Small, round, Celtic symbols on the lower back, a butterfly inside the wrist or a chain of roses around the nipple can all be very sensuous and appealing to the opposite sex. There are always going to be people who dislike tattoos all together, but the best thing to do if you want one is to go out and get it. After all, it is your body, and you only live once in it, so give it some thought but don’t be afraid to be spontaneous either!
Jack Lan is a Tattoo Expert who specialize in designing exclusive body tattoo designs and market them online. Visit his website to view 50,000 over tattoo design and remember to sign up for his newsletter to receive the latest tips on body tattoo for free. http://www.bodytattoodesign.com
http://ezinearticles.com/?Where-Should-I-Place-My-Tattoo?&id=557751
Friday, May 25, 2007
African Tattoo
Whether it's because of heritage or appreciation of the culture, many tattoo lovers are choosing to purchase an African tattoo. With it's climate ranging from tropical to cold and an abundance of wildlife, there is no shortage of image possibilities.
If you love animals, an African tattoo could be that of a lion, which symbolizes power and strength. Giraffes, deer and elephants, also commonly found on the world's second largest continent, are also popular animals found ranging freely throughout the African plains. Jungle creatures, including snakes, are also present along with various aquatic species.
In addition to it's landscape, varying climates and wide range of wildlife, Africa is known for both it's dance and music. Therefore, an African tattoo may symbolize some type of artistic expression in rhythm and/or movement. In addition, drums are the most commonly used instrument in African music and are therefore an excellent choice for an African tattoo.
Like other parts of the world, religion in Africa is diverse. As is the case with any region, spirituality is an important part of life and is often displayed openly as a sign of faith. Some individuals may choose to wear a symbol of their faith as jewelry, but others may opt for a tattoo to forever display their beliefs.
Because each African state differs in culture, landscape, economy and weather, there are many symbols that can be associated with each specific area. Some individuals may choose to have an African tattoo applied in the shape of the continent itself, but others may prefer a more personalized image that suits their individuality.
If you are considering an African tattoo, take the time to visit a local tattoo studio and inquire about possible options. If the artist does not have specific African tattoo samples, ask if he/she could achieve inspiration for a tattoo from an existing sketch, magazine photo or internet image. Quite often, a tattoo artist can use any type of artwork as inspiration for a tattoo and may be able to offer a unique design for anyone desiring an African tattoo.
A cultural symbol or one of heritage is often best expressed by the individual themselves. This simply means that each individual has different experiences and special moments in their lives that define their future. It is these moments and the symbols that make the most obvious choice for a tattoo. Permanent in nature, a tattoo is much like a memory. Neither can be erased and both have a tendency to transport us to another place and time.
The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not designed to be used as a complete guide to the African culture and should not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of an African tattoo or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/African-Tattoo.html
If you love animals, an African tattoo could be that of a lion, which symbolizes power and strength. Giraffes, deer and elephants, also commonly found on the world's second largest continent, are also popular animals found ranging freely throughout the African plains. Jungle creatures, including snakes, are also present along with various aquatic species.
In addition to it's landscape, varying climates and wide range of wildlife, Africa is known for both it's dance and music. Therefore, an African tattoo may symbolize some type of artistic expression in rhythm and/or movement. In addition, drums are the most commonly used instrument in African music and are therefore an excellent choice for an African tattoo.
Like other parts of the world, religion in Africa is diverse. As is the case with any region, spirituality is an important part of life and is often displayed openly as a sign of faith. Some individuals may choose to wear a symbol of their faith as jewelry, but others may opt for a tattoo to forever display their beliefs.
Because each African state differs in culture, landscape, economy and weather, there are many symbols that can be associated with each specific area. Some individuals may choose to have an African tattoo applied in the shape of the continent itself, but others may prefer a more personalized image that suits their individuality.
If you are considering an African tattoo, take the time to visit a local tattoo studio and inquire about possible options. If the artist does not have specific African tattoo samples, ask if he/she could achieve inspiration for a tattoo from an existing sketch, magazine photo or internet image. Quite often, a tattoo artist can use any type of artwork as inspiration for a tattoo and may be able to offer a unique design for anyone desiring an African tattoo.
A cultural symbol or one of heritage is often best expressed by the individual themselves. This simply means that each individual has different experiences and special moments in their lives that define their future. It is these moments and the symbols that make the most obvious choice for a tattoo. Permanent in nature, a tattoo is much like a memory. Neither can be erased and both have a tendency to transport us to another place and time.
The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not designed to be used as a complete guide to the African culture and should not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of an African tattoo or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/African-Tattoo.html
Choosing a Back Tattoo
Back tattoos are probably the best kind of tattoos around. And it is very popular too.
Added to this factor, the even surface of the human back also counts as a plus in the aesthetic value of back tattoos.
There are two things you need to consider in getting a back tattoo: symbolism and aesthetics.
Symbolism - There are a number of symbolic meanings behind back tattoos. The placement of each tattoo often alters its meaning, and the placement of a tattoo in the back can have many interpretations.
A back tattoo can mean that someone has turned his/her back on whatever the tattoo signifies. One may choose to have a tattoo of a vice or habit, an ex, and anything they wish to tell people they have left behind in their lives.
In the east, having a back tattoo of an animal, or an organizational logo can mean that someone is “watching your back”. This would serve as a protection for those sporting the back tattoo.
A back tattoo found near the shoulder, especially on a woman, signifies a sort of innocent sensuality.
This enhances the sexual attraction to the wearer, especially if the back tattoo is revealed accidentally.
Another symbolically sensual location of a back tattoo is at the small of the back. It just seems so sexy, somehow… doesn’t it?
The use of back tattoo to convey hidden messages is evident in the fact that a slightly revealed tattoo on a person arouses another person’s curiosity and thus leads to social interaction.
Of course, the symbolism of tattoos also involves the images themselves.
With every image come a dozen or even more interpretations. You need to be careful in choosing a tattoo image that actually symbolizes or reflects your character.
However, for all the interpretations of other people, you need to remember that you are the one getting the tattoo. What’s important is the meaning the back tattoo has for you personally.
Everything else is just a matter of perception.
Aesthetics – You need to make sure that the back tattoo you will be getting actually looks good.
In aesthetics, you need to consider the skill of the tattoo artist. Some people tend to only look at the catalogues of the tattoo artist in order to see if they can get a good back tattoo. However, you also need to see examples of the tattoo artist work on actual akin. This way, you can be sure whether you are getting a quality back tattoo or not.
Included in the aesthetic quality or factor of a back tattoo is its size. Some people prefer small, yet elaborate back tattoos while others choose big, yet comparatively simple ones.
Some people would also prefer their back tattoos to be like frescoes on their bodies, with different elements, making a story on their backs.
Colors are also an important part in back tattoos. Some people prefer “earth” colors, blending those colors with the color of the skin and thus, achieving a “natural’ look.
Some people prefer to have back tattoos with colors that really stand out. This way, their skin color acts as the medium to truly express the image of the back tattoo.
There are some tattoo parlors which offer colorless and 3-dimensional tattoos. More like piercing than actual tattoos, these are getting very popular because of their “modern” look.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/49.html
Added to this factor, the even surface of the human back also counts as a plus in the aesthetic value of back tattoos.
There are two things you need to consider in getting a back tattoo: symbolism and aesthetics.
Symbolism - There are a number of symbolic meanings behind back tattoos. The placement of each tattoo often alters its meaning, and the placement of a tattoo in the back can have many interpretations.
A back tattoo can mean that someone has turned his/her back on whatever the tattoo signifies. One may choose to have a tattoo of a vice or habit, an ex, and anything they wish to tell people they have left behind in their lives.
In the east, having a back tattoo of an animal, or an organizational logo can mean that someone is “watching your back”. This would serve as a protection for those sporting the back tattoo.
A back tattoo found near the shoulder, especially on a woman, signifies a sort of innocent sensuality.
This enhances the sexual attraction to the wearer, especially if the back tattoo is revealed accidentally.
Another symbolically sensual location of a back tattoo is at the small of the back. It just seems so sexy, somehow… doesn’t it?
The use of back tattoo to convey hidden messages is evident in the fact that a slightly revealed tattoo on a person arouses another person’s curiosity and thus leads to social interaction.
Of course, the symbolism of tattoos also involves the images themselves.
With every image come a dozen or even more interpretations. You need to be careful in choosing a tattoo image that actually symbolizes or reflects your character.
However, for all the interpretations of other people, you need to remember that you are the one getting the tattoo. What’s important is the meaning the back tattoo has for you personally.
Everything else is just a matter of perception.
Aesthetics – You need to make sure that the back tattoo you will be getting actually looks good.
In aesthetics, you need to consider the skill of the tattoo artist. Some people tend to only look at the catalogues of the tattoo artist in order to see if they can get a good back tattoo. However, you also need to see examples of the tattoo artist work on actual akin. This way, you can be sure whether you are getting a quality back tattoo or not.
Included in the aesthetic quality or factor of a back tattoo is its size. Some people prefer small, yet elaborate back tattoos while others choose big, yet comparatively simple ones.
Some people would also prefer their back tattoos to be like frescoes on their bodies, with different elements, making a story on their backs.
Colors are also an important part in back tattoos. Some people prefer “earth” colors, blending those colors with the color of the skin and thus, achieving a “natural’ look.
Some people prefer to have back tattoos with colors that really stand out. This way, their skin color acts as the medium to truly express the image of the back tattoo.
There are some tattoo parlors which offer colorless and 3-dimensional tattoos. More like piercing than actual tattoos, these are getting very popular because of their “modern” look.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/49.html
Dragon Tattoo- Your Choices From East to West
The dragon, more popularly seen as a strange reptile that is fond of abducting damsels, breathing fire and mercilessly killing knights, and not to say hoarding treasures had been a part of human culture. For thousands of years, this mythical creature had been the subject of human curiosity and his adoration for art. And while they are often portrayed in the books, paintings and the likes, the modern world has seen the dragon's potential place in the tattooing world.
Thus, its popularity as major tattoo designs.
It is the symbol of power, of fear, of honor, of evil (and sometimes good), of protection, of virtually anything, depending on who you would ask. Nevertheless, dragon tattoos lend themselves so beautifully for the appreciation of both artists and audience.
Both the eastern and the western world adopted dragons in a wide spectrum of art forms including depicting them in body arts.
The cultures in Asia, more significantly the Chinese, Japanese and the Koreans were oriented to the belief that dragons are the benevolent protectors of humanity, the bringer of good fortune, the healer of the sick and the bearer of life. Eastern dragons were extensively used in marking human skin for ages.
Eastern dragon tattoos are significantly more mythical-like than western tattoos. These usually have grinning flat faces, and a serpentine body that extends long enough so as to accommodate a number of feet (only in size). But actually, these dragons only have two pairs of feet, one pair as front legs and the other as hind legs.
These dragon tattoos are also depicted large and elaborately designed, often seen wrapping a person's back or crawling on the surface of the skin. While the art of tattooing is perceived to have spread in many cultures around the globe, it is thought that the earliest tattoos were of eastern dragon designs since the formal art of tattooing actually started in Japan.
Western dragons, on the other hand, were portrayed in the exact opposite of the eastern dragons. They are unmerciful, breath nasty fire, and wreak havoc against humankind.
These dragons are often seen with more reptilian images. Scales cover their entire body and they are characterized with razor-sharp teeth and snouted mouth and face. Their wings are large and powerful as well. Thus, they were considered as the embodiment of evil and myths and legends testify to these attributes. Nonetheless, they are covered with certain degrees of mysteries and mystique that lead other people to conclude of their existence.
In dragon tattoos, western dragons are beautiful creatures with less elaborate designs as compared with those crafted from the eastern dragons. Western dragon tattoos with smoking nostril are popular as well as those that depict impressive span of dragon wings.
With the two types of dragon tattoos compared, it is likely that we discover that eastern dragon tattoos are more elaborately designed than the western dragons are. The latter are also smaller in size.
The meaning dragon tattoos represent may vary with the person wearing it or the person observing it. In a sense, their implications are so varied that it is impossible to contain all them and define them in one heap.
Not only do dragon tattoos testify to some symbolism, they are also so fluid that you may see them covering the entire or majority of the body parts. Some hard core tattoo enthusiasts even choose to adapt a dragon tattoo design that starts from their lower body towards the torso and the above parts.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/52.html
Thus, its popularity as major tattoo designs.
It is the symbol of power, of fear, of honor, of evil (and sometimes good), of protection, of virtually anything, depending on who you would ask. Nevertheless, dragon tattoos lend themselves so beautifully for the appreciation of both artists and audience.
Both the eastern and the western world adopted dragons in a wide spectrum of art forms including depicting them in body arts.
The cultures in Asia, more significantly the Chinese, Japanese and the Koreans were oriented to the belief that dragons are the benevolent protectors of humanity, the bringer of good fortune, the healer of the sick and the bearer of life. Eastern dragons were extensively used in marking human skin for ages.
Eastern dragon tattoos are significantly more mythical-like than western tattoos. These usually have grinning flat faces, and a serpentine body that extends long enough so as to accommodate a number of feet (only in size). But actually, these dragons only have two pairs of feet, one pair as front legs and the other as hind legs.
These dragon tattoos are also depicted large and elaborately designed, often seen wrapping a person's back or crawling on the surface of the skin. While the art of tattooing is perceived to have spread in many cultures around the globe, it is thought that the earliest tattoos were of eastern dragon designs since the formal art of tattooing actually started in Japan.
Western dragons, on the other hand, were portrayed in the exact opposite of the eastern dragons. They are unmerciful, breath nasty fire, and wreak havoc against humankind.
These dragons are often seen with more reptilian images. Scales cover their entire body and they are characterized with razor-sharp teeth and snouted mouth and face. Their wings are large and powerful as well. Thus, they were considered as the embodiment of evil and myths and legends testify to these attributes. Nonetheless, they are covered with certain degrees of mysteries and mystique that lead other people to conclude of their existence.
In dragon tattoos, western dragons are beautiful creatures with less elaborate designs as compared with those crafted from the eastern dragons. Western dragon tattoos with smoking nostril are popular as well as those that depict impressive span of dragon wings.
With the two types of dragon tattoos compared, it is likely that we discover that eastern dragon tattoos are more elaborately designed than the western dragons are. The latter are also smaller in size.
The meaning dragon tattoos represent may vary with the person wearing it or the person observing it. In a sense, their implications are so varied that it is impossible to contain all them and define them in one heap.
Not only do dragon tattoos testify to some symbolism, they are also so fluid that you may see them covering the entire or majority of the body parts. Some hard core tattoo enthusiasts even choose to adapt a dragon tattoo design that starts from their lower body towards the torso and the above parts.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/52.html
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Tattoo Books
Although it is always best to design your own tattoo, tattoo books can be a helpful source of information and inspiration to help you get the perfect tattoo for you.
There are hundreds of tattoo books. Each tattoo parlor will have their own available for you to peruse, showcasing literally tens of thousands of designs.
There will be comic book tattoos, Celtic knots, naval tattoos, kanji, pinup girls, and probably a fair bit of the mythological stuff with dragons, eagles, and ghouls of all sorts which is so well known among tattoo fans.
If you are really into tattoo books, you might even order one which shows the tattoos on actual peoples bodies. Then you don't have to simply contemplate the design. You can have some idea of how it will look in real life.
Some of the most successful tattoo books are listed under our “Books†category (left menu). You can try to find the one that interest you there or make your one search to find the best for your needs.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/tattoo-books.html
There are hundreds of tattoo books. Each tattoo parlor will have their own available for you to peruse, showcasing literally tens of thousands of designs.
There will be comic book tattoos, Celtic knots, naval tattoos, kanji, pinup girls, and probably a fair bit of the mythological stuff with dragons, eagles, and ghouls of all sorts which is so well known among tattoo fans.
If you are really into tattoo books, you might even order one which shows the tattoos on actual peoples bodies. Then you don't have to simply contemplate the design. You can have some idea of how it will look in real life.
Some of the most successful tattoo books are listed under our “Books†category (left menu). You can try to find the one that interest you there or make your one search to find the best for your needs.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/tattoo-books.html
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Feminine Tattoos
For the woman who wants a delicate image permanently inked into her skin, feminine tattoos may be just the ticket. Simply put, feminine tattoos are gender specific and are usually of a more dainty nature because they are designed with a woman in mind. Small hearts, butterflies and other similar images are all popular examples of what many women choose when looking for feminine tattoos.
Butterfly tattoos, which are one of the most popular feminine tattoos in existence, can symbolize several different meanings. As the caterpillar changes and grows into a butterfly, a beautiful change occurs. What was once unappealing has now become a vision of loveliness. Perhaps a butterfly tattoo would signify this change in a woman as she develops a new style, either outward or inward. A butterfly tattoo can also signify freedom, which is commonly associated with wings and flight. Perhaps a relocation, an important career choice or other venture has given a woman the opportunity to soar in a way that deserves recognition.
Flowers, another popular choice in feminine tattoos, are often selected as a symbol of passion or happiness. Red, which is the most popular color in roses, is often associated with love and passion. Yellow flowers signify happiness and joy, which makes this one of the most popular options for tattoo seekers.
A simple name is also very popular among feminine tattoos, which may include the wearer's name, that of her mate or a word that best describes her personality. Common selections include 'sexy,' 'diva,' 'hot' and other similar expressions that are fun choices for the woman who is both confident and feminine. When choosing a tattoo that consists only of letters, a dainty choice is the best way to go versus an overpowering design. If a tattoo is overly large, it loses it's femininity.
Now that you know what some of the most popular choices are, it's important to know where feminine tattoos are most commonly placed. The lower back, shoulder, ankle and hip are all famous locations for feminine tattoos. As is the case with any tattoos, the location choice will largely depend on the wearer's preference. It should be in a location that will not be inconvenient while healing and is not constantly rubbing against clothing material during this time.
Upon completing a tattoo, the artist will explain how to care for the area while it heals, how long to avoid touching the ink and potential warning signs to watch out for regarding infection. If a tattoo is not properly cared for, it can become infected. Therefore, it is always a good idea to listen to the advice presented by the tattoo artist. If extreme redness or swelling occurs, consult a physician immediately.
The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of feminine tattoos or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/47.html
Butterfly tattoos, which are one of the most popular feminine tattoos in existence, can symbolize several different meanings. As the caterpillar changes and grows into a butterfly, a beautiful change occurs. What was once unappealing has now become a vision of loveliness. Perhaps a butterfly tattoo would signify this change in a woman as she develops a new style, either outward or inward. A butterfly tattoo can also signify freedom, which is commonly associated with wings and flight. Perhaps a relocation, an important career choice or other venture has given a woman the opportunity to soar in a way that deserves recognition.
Flowers, another popular choice in feminine tattoos, are often selected as a symbol of passion or happiness. Red, which is the most popular color in roses, is often associated with love and passion. Yellow flowers signify happiness and joy, which makes this one of the most popular options for tattoo seekers.
A simple name is also very popular among feminine tattoos, which may include the wearer's name, that of her mate or a word that best describes her personality. Common selections include 'sexy,' 'diva,' 'hot' and other similar expressions that are fun choices for the woman who is both confident and feminine. When choosing a tattoo that consists only of letters, a dainty choice is the best way to go versus an overpowering design. If a tattoo is overly large, it loses it's femininity.
Now that you know what some of the most popular choices are, it's important to know where feminine tattoos are most commonly placed. The lower back, shoulder, ankle and hip are all famous locations for feminine tattoos. As is the case with any tattoos, the location choice will largely depend on the wearer's preference. It should be in a location that will not be inconvenient while healing and is not constantly rubbing against clothing material during this time.
Upon completing a tattoo, the artist will explain how to care for the area while it heals, how long to avoid touching the ink and potential warning signs to watch out for regarding infection. If a tattoo is not properly cared for, it can become infected. Therefore, it is always a good idea to listen to the advice presented by the tattoo artist. If extreme redness or swelling occurs, consult a physician immediately.
The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It is not be used as a recommendation or advice relating to the application of feminine tattoos or any specific design. Individuals who are considering getting a tattoo should carefully weigh all of the risks associated with application and should also be selective in choosing a tattoo parlor or artist.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/47.html
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
All About Heart Tattoos
Heart tattoos are one of the most popular tattoo designs. They are either placed on the arms, wrists, lower part of the leg, or on the chest. Heart tattoos on the chest of the women are said to create a sexier image. For several decades in a row, tattoo enthusiasts never seem to forget the real message conveyed by heart tattoos. These designs are taken to mean one thing, and that is, to symbolize love in a deeper sense and also in a much permanent mode.
The Historical Flashback of Heart Tattoos
Since the outbreak of the early circa 1900s, the heart tattoos have been a fancy to all tattoo enthusiasts most especially to the men. As tattooing became more progressive and famous, several men began exposing their heart tattoos. The sailors typically wore the red-colored heart tattoos with the word “Mom†written in the center while the soldiers involved in the outbreak of the World War II were conventionally seen with heart tattoos with the names of their wives or girlfriends inscribed in them. Back in those years, the tattooing industry helped these men get on with their missions as they somehow had with them a part of their homes as they venture into the battlefields.
Heart Tattoos in the Contemporary Society
With a little inspiration from the olden heart tattoo designs a couple of decades back, today’s heart tattoos are more customized, extraordinary, and integrated with many other symbols and shapes. Also, a lot other heart tattoo designs came to surface. Higher quality of tattoo inks plus a much improved skill of the tattooists have made the heart tattoo one of the most sought-after choices of both the men and the women from various demographical groups.
Heart Tattoo Types
The Sacred Heart. The design shows a heart that is encompassed with thorns and a flame that escapes from its top. For the Catholic people, the Sacred Heart is a religious symbol that depicts Jesus’ own heart as He showed it to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. Those who go for sacred heart tattoos manifest either strength or a form of devotion to Jesus Christ.
The Locked Heart.
This is much adhered to by couples who prefer to use the design as a sign of their eternal love for each other. Some of these heart tattoos are incorporated with a lock and a key. This design is quite safer than that which includes a name because one need not worry removing it after the relationship comes to an end.
The Broken Heart.
This symbolizes unrequited love, suffering, or the loss of someone dear to the person. At times, names and dates are included.
The Hearts with Names.
Inscribing names together with the heart tattoo is a strong manifestation of deep feelings for someone. This comes as one good way of expressing an everlasting honor to a special person.
The Pierced Heart.
This design is often related to the Sacred Heart. Together with the dagger which cuts the heart into two, meanings such as sorrow, grief, or bravery come along. If there is the arrow that pierces the heart, it signifies strong passion or deep love.
The Anatomical Designs.
Among the rarest heart tattoo designs are those with band aids or stitches. They are usually adhered to by people who’ve managed to survive diseases or defects. They show a heart that has healed.
The Celtic Heart.
Heart tattoos together with Celtic designs are cool to look at. They include loops, bands, and a lot other intricate images.
As can obviously be noticed, there are thousands of heart tattoo designs which come available today. They are more complicated to work on, sophisticated in appearance, and peculiarly crafted. This is one of the main reasons as to why heart tattoos continue to stay in demand.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/54.html
The Historical Flashback of Heart Tattoos
Since the outbreak of the early circa 1900s, the heart tattoos have been a fancy to all tattoo enthusiasts most especially to the men. As tattooing became more progressive and famous, several men began exposing their heart tattoos. The sailors typically wore the red-colored heart tattoos with the word “Mom†written in the center while the soldiers involved in the outbreak of the World War II were conventionally seen with heart tattoos with the names of their wives or girlfriends inscribed in them. Back in those years, the tattooing industry helped these men get on with their missions as they somehow had with them a part of their homes as they venture into the battlefields.
Heart Tattoos in the Contemporary Society
With a little inspiration from the olden heart tattoo designs a couple of decades back, today’s heart tattoos are more customized, extraordinary, and integrated with many other symbols and shapes. Also, a lot other heart tattoo designs came to surface. Higher quality of tattoo inks plus a much improved skill of the tattooists have made the heart tattoo one of the most sought-after choices of both the men and the women from various demographical groups.
Heart Tattoo Types
The Sacred Heart. The design shows a heart that is encompassed with thorns and a flame that escapes from its top. For the Catholic people, the Sacred Heart is a religious symbol that depicts Jesus’ own heart as He showed it to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. Those who go for sacred heart tattoos manifest either strength or a form of devotion to Jesus Christ.
The Locked Heart.
This is much adhered to by couples who prefer to use the design as a sign of their eternal love for each other. Some of these heart tattoos are incorporated with a lock and a key. This design is quite safer than that which includes a name because one need not worry removing it after the relationship comes to an end.
The Broken Heart.
This symbolizes unrequited love, suffering, or the loss of someone dear to the person. At times, names and dates are included.
The Hearts with Names.
Inscribing names together with the heart tattoo is a strong manifestation of deep feelings for someone. This comes as one good way of expressing an everlasting honor to a special person.
The Pierced Heart.
This design is often related to the Sacred Heart. Together with the dagger which cuts the heart into two, meanings such as sorrow, grief, or bravery come along. If there is the arrow that pierces the heart, it signifies strong passion or deep love.
The Anatomical Designs.
Among the rarest heart tattoo designs are those with band aids or stitches. They are usually adhered to by people who’ve managed to survive diseases or defects. They show a heart that has healed.
The Celtic Heart.
Heart tattoos together with Celtic designs are cool to look at. They include loops, bands, and a lot other intricate images.
As can obviously be noticed, there are thousands of heart tattoo designs which come available today. They are more complicated to work on, sophisticated in appearance, and peculiarly crafted. This is one of the main reasons as to why heart tattoos continue to stay in demand.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/54.html
Monday, May 21, 2007
Choosing a Back Tattoo
Back tattoos are probably the best kind of tattoos around. And it is very popular too.
Added to this factor, the even surface of the human back also counts as a plus in the aesthetic value of back tattoos.
There are two things you need to consider in getting a back tattoo: symbolism and aesthetics.
Symbolism - There are a number of symbolic meanings behind back tattoos. The placement of each tattoo often alters its meaning, and the placement of a tattoo in the back can have many interpretations.
A back tattoo can mean that someone has turned his/her back on whatever the tattoo signifies. One may choose to have a tattoo of a vice or habit, an ex, and anything they wish to tell people they have left behind in their lives.
In the east, having a back tattoo of an animal, or an organizational logo can mean that someone is “watching your backâ€. This would serve as a protection for those sporting the back tattoo.
A back tattoo found near the shoulder, especially on a woman, signifies a sort of innocent sensuality.
This enhances the sexual attraction to the wearer, especially if the back tattoo is revealed accidentally.
Another symbolically sensual location of a back tattoo is at the small of the back. It just seems so sexy, somehow… doesn’t it?
The use of back tattoo to convey hidden messages is evident in the fact that a slightly revealed tattoo on a person arouses another person’s curiosity and thus leads to social interaction.
Of course, the symbolism of tattoos also involves the images themselves.
With every image come a dozen or even more interpretations. You need to be careful in choosing a tattoo image that actually symbolizes or reflects your character.
However, for all the interpretations of other people, you need to remember that you are the one getting the tattoo. What’s important is the meaning the back tattoo has for you personally.
Everything else is just a matter of perception.
Aesthetics – You need to make sure that the back tattoo you will be getting actually looks good.
In aesthetics, you need to consider the skill of the tattoo artist. Some people tend to only look at the catalogues of the tattoo artist in order to see if they can get a good back tattoo. However, you also need to see examples of the tattoo artist work on actual akin. This way, you can be sure whether you are getting a quality back tattoo or not.
Included in the aesthetic quality or factor of a back tattoo is its size. Some people prefer small, yet elaborate back tattoos while others choose big, yet comparatively simple ones.
Some people would also prefer their back tattoos to be like frescoes on their bodies, with different elements, making a story on their backs.
Colors are also an important part in back tattoos. Some people prefer “earth†colors, blending those colors with the color of the skin and thus, achieving a “natural’ look.
Some people prefer to have back tattoos with colors that really stand out. This way, their skin color acts as the medium to truly express the image of the back tattoo.
There are some tattoo parlors which offer colorless and 3-dimensional tattoos. More like piercing than actual tattoos, these are getting very popular because of their “modern†look.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/49.html
Added to this factor, the even surface of the human back also counts as a plus in the aesthetic value of back tattoos.
There are two things you need to consider in getting a back tattoo: symbolism and aesthetics.
Symbolism - There are a number of symbolic meanings behind back tattoos. The placement of each tattoo often alters its meaning, and the placement of a tattoo in the back can have many interpretations.
A back tattoo can mean that someone has turned his/her back on whatever the tattoo signifies. One may choose to have a tattoo of a vice or habit, an ex, and anything they wish to tell people they have left behind in their lives.
In the east, having a back tattoo of an animal, or an organizational logo can mean that someone is “watching your backâ€. This would serve as a protection for those sporting the back tattoo.
A back tattoo found near the shoulder, especially on a woman, signifies a sort of innocent sensuality.
This enhances the sexual attraction to the wearer, especially if the back tattoo is revealed accidentally.
Another symbolically sensual location of a back tattoo is at the small of the back. It just seems so sexy, somehow… doesn’t it?
The use of back tattoo to convey hidden messages is evident in the fact that a slightly revealed tattoo on a person arouses another person’s curiosity and thus leads to social interaction.
Of course, the symbolism of tattoos also involves the images themselves.
With every image come a dozen or even more interpretations. You need to be careful in choosing a tattoo image that actually symbolizes or reflects your character.
However, for all the interpretations of other people, you need to remember that you are the one getting the tattoo. What’s important is the meaning the back tattoo has for you personally.
Everything else is just a matter of perception.
Aesthetics – You need to make sure that the back tattoo you will be getting actually looks good.
In aesthetics, you need to consider the skill of the tattoo artist. Some people tend to only look at the catalogues of the tattoo artist in order to see if they can get a good back tattoo. However, you also need to see examples of the tattoo artist work on actual akin. This way, you can be sure whether you are getting a quality back tattoo or not.
Included in the aesthetic quality or factor of a back tattoo is its size. Some people prefer small, yet elaborate back tattoos while others choose big, yet comparatively simple ones.
Some people would also prefer their back tattoos to be like frescoes on their bodies, with different elements, making a story on their backs.
Colors are also an important part in back tattoos. Some people prefer “earth†colors, blending those colors with the color of the skin and thus, achieving a “natural’ look.
Some people prefer to have back tattoos with colors that really stand out. This way, their skin color acts as the medium to truly express the image of the back tattoo.
There are some tattoo parlors which offer colorless and 3-dimensional tattoos. More like piercing than actual tattoos, these are getting very popular because of their “modern†look.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/49.html
Dragon Tattoo- Your Choices From East to West
The dragon, more popularly seen as a strange reptile that is fond of abducting damsels, breathing fire and mercilessly killing knights, and not to say hoarding treasures had been a part of human culture. For thousands of years, this mythical creature had been the subject of human curiosity and his adoration for art. And while they are often portrayed in the books, paintings and the likes, the modern world has seen the dragon's potential place in the tattooing world.
Thus, its popularity as major tattoo designs.
It is the symbol of power, of fear, of honor, of evil (and sometimes good), of protection, of virtually anything, depending on who you would ask. Nevertheless, dragon tattoos lend themselves so beautifully for the appreciation of both artists and audience.
Both the eastern and the western world adopted dragons in a wide spectrum of art forms including depicting them in body arts.
The cultures in Asia, more significantly the Chinese, Japanese and the Koreans were oriented to the belief that dragons are the benevolent protectors of humanity, the bringer of good fortune, the healer of the sick and the bearer of life. Eastern dragons were extensively used in marking human skin for ages.
Eastern dragon tattoos are significantly more mythical-like than western tattoos. These usually have grinning flat faces, and a serpentine body that extends long enough so as to accommodate a number of feet (only in size). But actually, these dragons only have two pairs of feet, one pair as front legs and the other as hind legs.
These dragon tattoos are also depicted large and elaborately designed, often seen wrapping a person's back or crawling on the surface of the skin. While the art of tattooing is perceived to have spread in many cultures around the globe, it is thought that the earliest tattoos were of eastern dragon designs since the formal art of tattooing actually started in Japan.
Western dragons, on the other hand, were portrayed in the exact opposite of the eastern dragons. They are unmerciful, breath nasty fire, and wreak havoc against humankind.
These dragons are often seen with more reptilian images. Scales cover their entire body and they are characterized with razor-sharp teeth and snouted mouth and face. Their wings are large and powerful as well. Thus, they were considered as the embodiment of evil and myths and legends testify to these attributes. Nonetheless, they are covered with certain degrees of mysteries and mystique that lead other people to conclude of their existence.
In dragon tattoos, western dragons are beautiful creatures with less elaborate designs as compared with those crafted from the eastern dragons. Western dragon tattoos with smoking nostril are popular as well as those that depict impressive span of dragon wings.
With the two types of dragon tattoos compared, it is likely that we discover that eastern dragon tattoos are more elaborately designed than the western dragons are. The latter are also smaller in size.
The meaning dragon tattoos represent may vary with the person wearing it or the person observing it. In a sense, their implications are so varied that it is impossible to contain all them and define them in one heap.
Not only do dragon tattoos testify to some symbolism, they are also so fluid that you may see them covering the entire or majority of the body parts. Some hard core tattoo enthusiasts even choose to adapt a dragon tattoo design that starts from their lower body towards the torso and the above parts.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/52.html
Thus, its popularity as major tattoo designs.
It is the symbol of power, of fear, of honor, of evil (and sometimes good), of protection, of virtually anything, depending on who you would ask. Nevertheless, dragon tattoos lend themselves so beautifully for the appreciation of both artists and audience.
Both the eastern and the western world adopted dragons in a wide spectrum of art forms including depicting them in body arts.
The cultures in Asia, more significantly the Chinese, Japanese and the Koreans were oriented to the belief that dragons are the benevolent protectors of humanity, the bringer of good fortune, the healer of the sick and the bearer of life. Eastern dragons were extensively used in marking human skin for ages.
Eastern dragon tattoos are significantly more mythical-like than western tattoos. These usually have grinning flat faces, and a serpentine body that extends long enough so as to accommodate a number of feet (only in size). But actually, these dragons only have two pairs of feet, one pair as front legs and the other as hind legs.
These dragon tattoos are also depicted large and elaborately designed, often seen wrapping a person's back or crawling on the surface of the skin. While the art of tattooing is perceived to have spread in many cultures around the globe, it is thought that the earliest tattoos were of eastern dragon designs since the formal art of tattooing actually started in Japan.
Western dragons, on the other hand, were portrayed in the exact opposite of the eastern dragons. They are unmerciful, breath nasty fire, and wreak havoc against humankind.
These dragons are often seen with more reptilian images. Scales cover their entire body and they are characterized with razor-sharp teeth and snouted mouth and face. Their wings are large and powerful as well. Thus, they were considered as the embodiment of evil and myths and legends testify to these attributes. Nonetheless, they are covered with certain degrees of mysteries and mystique that lead other people to conclude of their existence.
In dragon tattoos, western dragons are beautiful creatures with less elaborate designs as compared with those crafted from the eastern dragons. Western dragon tattoos with smoking nostril are popular as well as those that depict impressive span of dragon wings.
With the two types of dragon tattoos compared, it is likely that we discover that eastern dragon tattoos are more elaborately designed than the western dragons are. The latter are also smaller in size.
The meaning dragon tattoos represent may vary with the person wearing it or the person observing it. In a sense, their implications are so varied that it is impossible to contain all them and define them in one heap.
Not only do dragon tattoos testify to some symbolism, they are also so fluid that you may see them covering the entire or majority of the body parts. Some hard core tattoo enthusiasts even choose to adapt a dragon tattoo design that starts from their lower body towards the torso and the above parts.
http://www.todaytattoos.com/Articles/52.html
Tattoo Conventions
If you’re looking for a quick introduction into the world and the culture of tattoos, you can find no better place to start than at a tattoo convention. Of course they aren’t just for newcomers, but also a great place for enthusiasts to meet the legends of the tattoo world, to make new friends and to get more ink.
The Artists attend not only to do business and create more living art, they can also look forward to meeting up with old friends and to attending seminars about the latest techniques. Conventions offer something for everyone who is interested and involved in the world of tattoos.
Conventions vary in size and scope, some are local festivals lasting a day or two and featuring the talent from one particular city or area, others can last up to a week and draw artists and attendees from around a region, country, or even from all around the globe. Some of the highlights:
# The Artists: Tattoo artists set up booths where they display photographs of their work and apply tattoos.
# The Contests: Usually there will be competitions run for tattoos inked on a particular day and for the duration of the convention. Categories may include such as “Best Gray Scale,” “Best Sleeve (Arm or Leg),” “Most Original Design,” etc.
# The Seminars: Some of the larger conventions will feature seminars on how to master techniques like gray scale, the latest health procedures, or how to maintain your equipment, etc. These are taught by professionals and generally last for several hours.
# The Entertainment: You might find live bands, DJ’s spinning the tunes, parties (often held somewhere off-site but close to the convention venue), and even sideshows and “freak shows” featuring unique acts - even fashion shows turned up. Some conventions will also have car & bike shows, sometimes skateboard demonstrations or play areas for the kids.
# The Extras: There may be art exhibitions on the history of tattoos or the designs of certain artists, etc. Sometimes you can view old tattoo machinery on display.
# The Goods: Not only could you get a new tattoo, you will probably also find that body piercing is available at the convention. There may be body painting and henna tattoos as well. Vendors will be supplying food, apparel, cosmetics, accessories and jewelry.
http://tattoodesign.com/tattoo-convention.html
The Artists attend not only to do business and create more living art, they can also look forward to meeting up with old friends and to attending seminars about the latest techniques. Conventions offer something for everyone who is interested and involved in the world of tattoos.
Conventions vary in size and scope, some are local festivals lasting a day or two and featuring the talent from one particular city or area, others can last up to a week and draw artists and attendees from around a region, country, or even from all around the globe. Some of the highlights:
# The Artists: Tattoo artists set up booths where they display photographs of their work and apply tattoos.
# The Contests: Usually there will be competitions run for tattoos inked on a particular day and for the duration of the convention. Categories may include such as “Best Gray Scale,” “Best Sleeve (Arm or Leg),” “Most Original Design,” etc.
# The Seminars: Some of the larger conventions will feature seminars on how to master techniques like gray scale, the latest health procedures, or how to maintain your equipment, etc. These are taught by professionals and generally last for several hours.
# The Entertainment: You might find live bands, DJ’s spinning the tunes, parties (often held somewhere off-site but close to the convention venue), and even sideshows and “freak shows” featuring unique acts - even fashion shows turned up. Some conventions will also have car & bike shows, sometimes skateboard demonstrations or play areas for the kids.
# The Extras: There may be art exhibitions on the history of tattoos or the designs of certain artists, etc. Sometimes you can view old tattoo machinery on display.
# The Goods: Not only could you get a new tattoo, you will probably also find that body piercing is available at the convention. There may be body painting and henna tattoos as well. Vendors will be supplying food, apparel, cosmetics, accessories and jewelry.
http://tattoodesign.com/tattoo-convention.html
Saturday, May 19, 2007
How to Obtain a Marriage License in Massachusetts
All people who marry in Massachusetts must have a marriage license issued in Massachusetts. An out-of-state license cannot be used. This outlines the procedures you must follow to obtain the license.
How to Apply for a License
How do we apply for a marriage license?
You must both apply in person for a marriage license. This requirement is applicable to both residents and non-residents of the Commonwealth. According to Massachusetts law, you must jointly file intentions to marry, and you may do so with the city or town clerk in any community in the state. If a person is in the military, intentions may be filed by either party, providing one is a Massachusetts resident. If a person is incarcerated in a county house of correction or a state correctional facility, intentions may be filed by either party. A marriage license, once obtained, is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed and may be used in any Massachusetts city or town. It is not valid outside the state.
Waiting Period
Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?
Yes, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period. While Sundays and holidays are included in the three days, the day the application is made is not. For example, if you apply on Friday, your license will be issued on or after Monday. Check with your town clerk to determine whether you must pick it up in person, or if it can be mailed.
Obtaining a Waiver of the Waiting Period
May we marry before the three days for good reason?
Yes, if you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions. According to MGL Ch. 207:30, if both parties are residents, or non-residents, or one of each, and they need to dispense with the three days, they may do so by applying to the judge of a probate or district court to have the license issued without delay, after filing intentions with the clerk. Under extraordinary or emergency circumstances, such as if the death of either party is imminent or the female is nearing the end of her pregnancy, an authorized request by a minister or clergy person or an attending physician shall suffice and the clerk can issue the certificate without delay.
How do we obtain a waiver?
You should file your intentions first with any city or town clerk. Then an application for a waiver must be filed by both of you at a probate or district court. After a hearing, the court may issue a certificate allowing the marriage license to be issued, and the marriage performed without delay.
Cost of License
What is the cost of a marriage license?
Fees in most communities range between $4 and $15 dollars. The state statute stipulates a fee of $4 for the license but it allows cities and towns by a vote of their city councils, boards of selectmen or town meeting, or by a change in the by-laws, to set their own fee.
Age Requirement
At what age may a man or woman marry?
A Massachusetts resident may marry if he or she is 18 years of age or older. A birth certificate may be required to show proof of age.
What if one or both of us is under 18?
If either party is under 18, a court order from a probate or district court where the minor resides must be obtained before the marriage intentions can be filed.
Medical Certificates
Is a medical certificate required before a license can be issued?
Yes, a medical certificate is necessary for each of you unless you obtain a request in writing from a member of the clergy or attending physician stating that the woman is near the termination of her pregnancy or the death of either party is imminent.
Where can we obtain medical certificates?
You may obtain medical certificates from any physician licensed to practice in Massachusetts. Blank medical certificates for premarital tests may be obtained by medical practitioners and by out-of-state residents planning to marry in Massachusetts from:
Bureau of Communicable Disease Control
Department of Public Health
305 South Street
Boston, MA 02130
(617) 983-6940
To download the form: http://www.state.ma.us/dph/cdc/std/divstd.htm
Medical certificates from other states are valid for both the man and the woman. However, it is the responsibility of the physician to offer the woman a voluntary test for susceptibility to rubella (German measles) and to discuss with each applicant AIDS educational material, facts which are now noted by the physician on the Massachusetts medical certificate form. If the out-of-state certificate does not contain these provisions, the out-of-state physician must note them in a separate letter or a Massachusetts physician must complete those sections of the Massachusetts medical certificate which is then filed with the out-of-state certificate. In the case of out-of-state medical certificates the city or town clerk has the authority to waive the requirements for the discussion of the AIDS educational material.
What is the purpose of the medical certificate?
The medical certificate states that the individual has been examined and found free of communicable syphilis. The doctor may require a complete examination if, in the doctor's opinion, the possibility of syphilis is present. Also, the certificate indicates that the physician has offered the woman a voluntary test for susceptibility of rubella and that a physician has discussed with each applicant AIDS information.
May a person with communicable syphilis obtain a marriage license?
No. However, after the applicant has had sufficient treatment and is found non-infectious, the doctor will issue the medical certificate and a marriage license may be obtained.
Is a test for AIDS required to obtain a marriage license in Massachusetts?
No. However, it is now required by a regulation of the Department of Public Health that city and town clerks distribute to applicants for a marriage license and AIDS educational pamphlet. The pamphlet is entitled, "If You're Getting Married...Know the Facts About HIV" (PDF, 25Mb). Also it is the responsibility of the physician to discuss with each applicant for a medical certificate this AIDS educational material. For information and referral, contact:
Statewide toll-free AIDS hotline:
1-800-235-2331
U.S. Public Health Service toll-free hotline:
1-800-342 AIDS (2437)
How long are the medical certificates valid?
You may file intentions to marry without your medical certificates. However, the clerk cannot issue your marriage license until you have submitted the medical certificates. If you obtain the medical certificates prior to filing intentions, you must file intentions within 30 days or the medical certificates are no longer valid. Your marriage license, once obtained, is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed. Medical certificates which are obtained after the filing of intentions are valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed, the length of time the marriage license itself is valid.
Where can we obtain a referral to a physician?
The Massachusetts Medical Society has a physician referral hotline: 1-800-322-2303.
Divorced and Widowed Applicants
What if one or both of us had been divorced?
You are not required to present a divorce certificate when filing intentions to marry. However, it is extremely important that an individual who has been divorced be certain that his/her divorce is absolute. If you are uncertain as to the absolute date of your divorce, you should contact the court where the divorce was granted. In Massachusetts, a divorce does not become absolute until 90 days after the divorce nisi has been granted, regardless of the grounds for divorce.
Is there any special requirement for a widow or widower who is remarrying?
No.
Witnesses to Ceremony
Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?
Massachusetts statute does not require that witnesses be present at your ceremony. However, if a member of the clergy performs the ceremony, you should ensure that you are in conformity with the appropriate religious tenets.
Clergy Persons and Justices of the Peace
What are the responsibilities of the member of the clergy or the justice of the peace?
The member of the clergy or justice of the peace must complete and sign the original license and return it to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued.
What should be done if an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage?
If an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage, the clergy person must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth prior to the ceremony. This certificate, which is issued by the Public Records Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, is to be attached to the original license and returned to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. For further information, contact:
Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 727-2836
Is it possible for a layperson to solemnize a wedding?
Yes, it is possible for a non-minister or non-justice of the peace (such as a relative or family friend) to obtain special permission to perform a marriage from the Governor. Call the Governor's office at (617) 727-5787 to obtain an application for a one-time special appointment to solemnize a marriage. After approval, a $25 fee is paid to the Commissions Division of the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
More Information
Are there any special requirements if one applicant is an immigrant?
If either of the parties has arrived as an immigrant from a foreign country within five days, the application may be filed at any time before the marriage, and the certificate shall be issued at any time after the filing.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/married_ma.asp
How to Apply for a License
How do we apply for a marriage license?
You must both apply in person for a marriage license. This requirement is applicable to both residents and non-residents of the Commonwealth. According to Massachusetts law, you must jointly file intentions to marry, and you may do so with the city or town clerk in any community in the state. If a person is in the military, intentions may be filed by either party, providing one is a Massachusetts resident. If a person is incarcerated in a county house of correction or a state correctional facility, intentions may be filed by either party. A marriage license, once obtained, is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed and may be used in any Massachusetts city or town. It is not valid outside the state.
Waiting Period
Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?
Yes, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period. While Sundays and holidays are included in the three days, the day the application is made is not. For example, if you apply on Friday, your license will be issued on or after Monday. Check with your town clerk to determine whether you must pick it up in person, or if it can be mailed.
Obtaining a Waiver of the Waiting Period
May we marry before the three days for good reason?
Yes, if you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions. According to MGL Ch. 207:30, if both parties are residents, or non-residents, or one of each, and they need to dispense with the three days, they may do so by applying to the judge of a probate or district court to have the license issued without delay, after filing intentions with the clerk. Under extraordinary or emergency circumstances, such as if the death of either party is imminent or the female is nearing the end of her pregnancy, an authorized request by a minister or clergy person or an attending physician shall suffice and the clerk can issue the certificate without delay.
How do we obtain a waiver?
You should file your intentions first with any city or town clerk. Then an application for a waiver must be filed by both of you at a probate or district court. After a hearing, the court may issue a certificate allowing the marriage license to be issued, and the marriage performed without delay.
Cost of License
What is the cost of a marriage license?
Fees in most communities range between $4 and $15 dollars. The state statute stipulates a fee of $4 for the license but it allows cities and towns by a vote of their city councils, boards of selectmen or town meeting, or by a change in the by-laws, to set their own fee.
Age Requirement
At what age may a man or woman marry?
A Massachusetts resident may marry if he or she is 18 years of age or older. A birth certificate may be required to show proof of age.
What if one or both of us is under 18?
If either party is under 18, a court order from a probate or district court where the minor resides must be obtained before the marriage intentions can be filed.
Medical Certificates
Is a medical certificate required before a license can be issued?
Yes, a medical certificate is necessary for each of you unless you obtain a request in writing from a member of the clergy or attending physician stating that the woman is near the termination of her pregnancy or the death of either party is imminent.
Where can we obtain medical certificates?
You may obtain medical certificates from any physician licensed to practice in Massachusetts. Blank medical certificates for premarital tests may be obtained by medical practitioners and by out-of-state residents planning to marry in Massachusetts from:
Bureau of Communicable Disease Control
Department of Public Health
305 South Street
Boston, MA 02130
(617) 983-6940
To download the form: http://www.state.ma.us/dph/cdc/std/divstd.htm
Medical certificates from other states are valid for both the man and the woman. However, it is the responsibility of the physician to offer the woman a voluntary test for susceptibility to rubella (German measles) and to discuss with each applicant AIDS educational material, facts which are now noted by the physician on the Massachusetts medical certificate form. If the out-of-state certificate does not contain these provisions, the out-of-state physician must note them in a separate letter or a Massachusetts physician must complete those sections of the Massachusetts medical certificate which is then filed with the out-of-state certificate. In the case of out-of-state medical certificates the city or town clerk has the authority to waive the requirements for the discussion of the AIDS educational material.
What is the purpose of the medical certificate?
The medical certificate states that the individual has been examined and found free of communicable syphilis. The doctor may require a complete examination if, in the doctor's opinion, the possibility of syphilis is present. Also, the certificate indicates that the physician has offered the woman a voluntary test for susceptibility of rubella and that a physician has discussed with each applicant AIDS information.
May a person with communicable syphilis obtain a marriage license?
No. However, after the applicant has had sufficient treatment and is found non-infectious, the doctor will issue the medical certificate and a marriage license may be obtained.
Is a test for AIDS required to obtain a marriage license in Massachusetts?
No. However, it is now required by a regulation of the Department of Public Health that city and town clerks distribute to applicants for a marriage license and AIDS educational pamphlet. The pamphlet is entitled, "If You're Getting Married...Know the Facts About HIV" (PDF, 25Mb). Also it is the responsibility of the physician to discuss with each applicant for a medical certificate this AIDS educational material. For information and referral, contact:
Statewide toll-free AIDS hotline:
1-800-235-2331
U.S. Public Health Service toll-free hotline:
1-800-342 AIDS (2437)
How long are the medical certificates valid?
You may file intentions to marry without your medical certificates. However, the clerk cannot issue your marriage license until you have submitted the medical certificates. If you obtain the medical certificates prior to filing intentions, you must file intentions within 30 days or the medical certificates are no longer valid. Your marriage license, once obtained, is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed. Medical certificates which are obtained after the filing of intentions are valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed, the length of time the marriage license itself is valid.
Where can we obtain a referral to a physician?
The Massachusetts Medical Society has a physician referral hotline: 1-800-322-2303.
Divorced and Widowed Applicants
What if one or both of us had been divorced?
You are not required to present a divorce certificate when filing intentions to marry. However, it is extremely important that an individual who has been divorced be certain that his/her divorce is absolute. If you are uncertain as to the absolute date of your divorce, you should contact the court where the divorce was granted. In Massachusetts, a divorce does not become absolute until 90 days after the divorce nisi has been granted, regardless of the grounds for divorce.
Is there any special requirement for a widow or widower who is remarrying?
No.
Witnesses to Ceremony
Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?
Massachusetts statute does not require that witnesses be present at your ceremony. However, if a member of the clergy performs the ceremony, you should ensure that you are in conformity with the appropriate religious tenets.
Clergy Persons and Justices of the Peace
What are the responsibilities of the member of the clergy or the justice of the peace?
The member of the clergy or justice of the peace must complete and sign the original license and return it to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued.
What should be done if an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage?
If an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage, the clergy person must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth prior to the ceremony. This certificate, which is issued by the Public Records Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, is to be attached to the original license and returned to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. For further information, contact:
Division of Public Records
Secretary of the Commonwealth
One Ashburton Place, Room 1719
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 727-2836
Is it possible for a layperson to solemnize a wedding?
Yes, it is possible for a non-minister or non-justice of the peace (such as a relative or family friend) to obtain special permission to perform a marriage from the Governor. Call the Governor's office at (617) 727-5787 to obtain an application for a one-time special appointment to solemnize a marriage. After approval, a $25 fee is paid to the Commissions Division of the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
More Information
Are there any special requirements if one applicant is an immigrant?
If either of the parties has arrived as an immigrant from a foreign country within five days, the application may be filed at any time before the marriage, and the certificate shall be issued at any time after the filing.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/married_ma.asp
Getting Married in California
Here's what you need to know to make the marriage legal in California.
In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.
You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.
When you apply for your license, you'll not only need a proof of identification and age, will need to provide any information about previous marriages, and will need to pay a nominal fee. The bride will need to know what her married name will be before she signs the marriage certificate. You'll have to write that name on the application.
And, believe it or not, just because you have your marriage license sent to you in the mail does not mean you are officially married. You need to have a justice of the peace or a religious clergyman sign the document. On your wedding day, you'll give your chaplain your marriage license, then after the ceremony, he'll sign it and send it to the proper government agency for validation.
Appointment Suggested: It is recommended that you call the County or City Clerk's office to see if they suggest setting an appointment. You could find yourselves in a long line with as much as a 2 hour wait without an appointment in some locales.
ID Requirement: Picture id such as Drivers License or other valid identification. Some counties recommend bringing certified copies of your birth certificates. Know your parents names, mothers' maiden name and places of their birth.
Application Requirement: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying.
Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of California.
Waiting Period: No waiting period.
Previous Marriages: You must show proof of divorce, death or annulment. You need to bring a copy of your final divorce decree if you have divorced within the 90 days through past year (varies by county.)
Fees: $80.00. Some counties will only accept cash.
Other Tests: No tests. NO BLOOD TEST IS REQUIRED.
Under 18: If either the bride or groom is under 18, at least one of the minor's parents, or legal guardian, must appear with the couple. Certified copies of birth certificates are required. The couple must also schedule an appointment with a counselor and then appear before a superior court judge.
Proxy Marriages: No.
Cousin Marriages: Yes.
Common Law Marriages: No.
Same Sex Marriages: No. However, Domestic Partnership Certificates are available in San Francisco and Marin Counties. One partner must live or work in that county and both must have photo ID.
Officiants: Any priest, minister, or rabbi of any religious denomination, of the age of 18 years or over may perform marriages. Ministers must complete the marriage license and return it to the county clerk within 4 days after the marriage.
Valid: License is valid for 90 days. The license can only be used within the State of California.
Confidential License: A regular marriage license is a public record. A license and certificate of confidential marriage is only accessible by the husband, wife, or by decree signed by a superior court judge. At least one witness is required to observe the solemnization for a regular, public ceremony. No witnesses are required to observe a confidential marriage ceremony. A regular license may be used throughout the state. However, the confidential license may only be used in the county of issue. The confidential license costs $80.00 same as the regular license.
Solemnization Authority: Marriage may be solemnized by any of the following who is of the age of 18 years or older:
1. A Priest, minister, or rabbi of any religious denomination.
2. A judge or retired judge, commissioner of civil marriages or retired commissioner of civil marriages, commissioner or retired commissioner, or assistant commissioner of a court of record in this state.
3. A judge or magistrate who has resigned from office.
4. Any of the following judges or magistrates of the United States:
1. A justice or retired justice of the United States Supreme Court.
2. A judge or retired judge of a court of appeals, a district court, or a court created by an act of Congress the Judges of which are entitled to hold office during good behavior.
3. A judge or retired judge of a bankruptcy court or a tax court.
4. A United States magistrate or retired magistrate.
5. A legislator or constitutional officer of this state or a member of Congress who represents a district within this state, while that person holds office.
Each county offers civil ceremonies performed by a judge or commissioner. The cost is approximately $40.00. For additional information call your County Clerk's office.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/married_ca.asp
In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.
You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.
When you apply for your license, you'll not only need a proof of identification and age, will need to provide any information about previous marriages, and will need to pay a nominal fee. The bride will need to know what her married name will be before she signs the marriage certificate. You'll have to write that name on the application.
And, believe it or not, just because you have your marriage license sent to you in the mail does not mean you are officially married. You need to have a justice of the peace or a religious clergyman sign the document. On your wedding day, you'll give your chaplain your marriage license, then after the ceremony, he'll sign it and send it to the proper government agency for validation.
Appointment Suggested: It is recommended that you call the County or City Clerk's office to see if they suggest setting an appointment. You could find yourselves in a long line with as much as a 2 hour wait without an appointment in some locales.
ID Requirement: Picture id such as Drivers License or other valid identification. Some counties recommend bringing certified copies of your birth certificates. Know your parents names, mothers' maiden name and places of their birth.
Application Requirement: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying.
Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of California.
Waiting Period: No waiting period.
Previous Marriages: You must show proof of divorce, death or annulment. You need to bring a copy of your final divorce decree if you have divorced within the 90 days through past year (varies by county.)
Fees: $80.00. Some counties will only accept cash.
Other Tests: No tests. NO BLOOD TEST IS REQUIRED.
Under 18: If either the bride or groom is under 18, at least one of the minor's parents, or legal guardian, must appear with the couple. Certified copies of birth certificates are required. The couple must also schedule an appointment with a counselor and then appear before a superior court judge.
Proxy Marriages: No.
Cousin Marriages: Yes.
Common Law Marriages: No.
Same Sex Marriages: No. However, Domestic Partnership Certificates are available in San Francisco and Marin Counties. One partner must live or work in that county and both must have photo ID.
Officiants: Any priest, minister, or rabbi of any religious denomination, of the age of 18 years or over may perform marriages. Ministers must complete the marriage license and return it to the county clerk within 4 days after the marriage.
Valid: License is valid for 90 days. The license can only be used within the State of California.
Confidential License: A regular marriage license is a public record. A license and certificate of confidential marriage is only accessible by the husband, wife, or by decree signed by a superior court judge. At least one witness is required to observe the solemnization for a regular, public ceremony. No witnesses are required to observe a confidential marriage ceremony. A regular license may be used throughout the state. However, the confidential license may only be used in the county of issue. The confidential license costs $80.00 same as the regular license.
Solemnization Authority: Marriage may be solemnized by any of the following who is of the age of 18 years or older:
1. A Priest, minister, or rabbi of any religious denomination.
2. A judge or retired judge, commissioner of civil marriages or retired commissioner of civil marriages, commissioner or retired commissioner, or assistant commissioner of a court of record in this state.
3. A judge or magistrate who has resigned from office.
4. Any of the following judges or magistrates of the United States:
1. A justice or retired justice of the United States Supreme Court.
2. A judge or retired judge of a court of appeals, a district court, or a court created by an act of Congress the Judges of which are entitled to hold office during good behavior.
3. A judge or retired judge of a bankruptcy court or a tax court.
4. A United States magistrate or retired magistrate.
5. A legislator or constitutional officer of this state or a member of Congress who represents a district within this state, while that person holds office.
Each county offers civil ceremonies performed by a judge or commissioner. The cost is approximately $40.00. For additional information call your County Clerk's office.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/married_ca.asp
Getting Married in Michigan
Here's what you need to know to make the marriage legal in Michigan.
In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.
You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.
Below you will find some specific Marriage requirements for Michigan.
ID Requirement: Picture ID such as a driver's license. You should know your Social Security numbers.
Residency Requirement: You do not have to be a resident of Michigan, but the fee is $10 more for non-residents. Residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county in which one of them lives. Non-residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county where they plan on getting married.
Application Requirement: Applicants intending to marry must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk in the county in which one of the parties lives (or, if both parties are non-residents, in the county where the marriage is to be performed), and deliver it to the person who is to solemnize the marriage, before the marriage can be performed. Both applicants are not required to appear in person at the time of applying. However, he or she will be required to complete all information about both applicants:
• A photocopy of the front and back of the other person's driver's license.
• Full names;
• addresses, dates and places of birth;
• Bride's name after marriage
Identification requirements vary in each county. A valid drivers license or certified copy of birth certificate may be requested.
Waiting Period: 3 days. The county clerk can waive the 3 day waiting period for "good and sufficient cause shown."
Fees: $20 for residents, and $30 for non-residents. $15.00 of it is allocated for family counseling services. Wayne County is authorized to charge more. A probate court may waive the marriage license fee in cases of undue hardship.
Blood Tests: No tests
Under 18: If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can get married with parental consent. Your parents must appear with their own identification and if a custodial parent, proof of their custody. If you are 15 or younger, you will need both parental consent and the approval of the probate court.
Marriage of a Minor: The legal marriage of a minor "shall release such minor from parental control."
Common Law Marriage: No. However, the State does recognize common law marriages that are valid in other states, or unless parties entered into the relationship prior to January 1, 1957. .
Solemnization Authority: Marriages may be solemnized by any of the following:
• Federal, probate, district, and municipal judges, and district court magistrates, in their court area;
• Mayors, in their city;
• Wayne County clerks;
• Ministers of the gospel, anywhere in the state, "if the minister is ordained or authorized to solemnize marriages according to the usages of the denomination, and is a pastor of a church in this state, or continues to preach the gospel in this state";
• Non-resident ministers of the gospel, anywhere in the state, if the minister is authorized to solemnize marriages by his or her state's laws.
Solemnization Form: No particular form or oath is required. The parties merely solemnly declare that they take each other as husband and wife before at least two witnesses and the person officiating. A special law allows "the people called Friends or Quakers" and "people of any other particular denomination, having, as such, any peculiar mode of solemnizing marriages" to solemnize their marriages in their own manner.
Solemnization Fee: Mayors and Wayne County clerks are specifically authorized to collect a fee (set by their city, or county commissioners) for solemnizing marriages. The money is to be turned in to the government. There are no specific provisions concerning fees charged by others.
Certificate: After the wedding ceremony the person who solemnizes the marriage fills in (typed or legibly printed) the certificate with the time and place of the marriage and the names and residences of the two witnesses, and signs it. The part marked "duplicate" is given to the newlyweds, and the original must be mailed to the county clerk that issued it within 10 days. The clerk records the information in a registration book, and mails it on to the the state registrar. The person who performs the marriage must also keep a record ''in a book used expressly for that purpose. The license, when fully filled out, thus serves a "double purpose" and becomes the certificate.
Officiants: A minister of the gospel who is ordained or authorized by his or her church to perform marriages and who is a pastor of a church in this state, or continues to preach the gospel in this state may perform marriages. Ministers must complete a marriage certificate and give one to the couple. Another marriage certificate must be returned to the county clerk who issued the license within 10 days after the marriage.
Valid: License is valid for 33 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Michigan.
Second Marriage: You need to know the date (mm/dd/yy) and how the last marriage ended. If it was within the last 6 months, you will need to bring proof of the divorce that can be left with the Clerk.
Same Sex Marriages: No. In November, 2004, voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/Getting_Married_in_Michigan.asp
In order to get married, you need to apply and receive a marriage license. The rules for acquiring your marriage license varies from state to state, so you should check with your city's marriage bureau at your clerk of court's office to find out what your local rules are.
You'll typically need to apply for your marriage license at least one month before your wedding ceremony. You'll traditionally need to send in your birth certificates, tax information, and other official documents. You don't, however, want to apply for your marriage license too early. In some states, the licenses do expire, if you don't get married within a few months.
Below you will find some specific Marriage requirements for Michigan.
ID Requirement: Picture ID such as a driver's license. You should know your Social Security numbers.
Residency Requirement: You do not have to be a resident of Michigan, but the fee is $10 more for non-residents. Residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county in which one of them lives. Non-residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county where they plan on getting married.
Application Requirement: Applicants intending to marry must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk in the county in which one of the parties lives (or, if both parties are non-residents, in the county where the marriage is to be performed), and deliver it to the person who is to solemnize the marriage, before the marriage can be performed. Both applicants are not required to appear in person at the time of applying. However, he or she will be required to complete all information about both applicants:
• A photocopy of the front and back of the other person's driver's license.
• Full names;
• addresses, dates and places of birth;
• Bride's name after marriage
Identification requirements vary in each county. A valid drivers license or certified copy of birth certificate may be requested.
Waiting Period: 3 days. The county clerk can waive the 3 day waiting period for "good and sufficient cause shown."
Fees: $20 for residents, and $30 for non-residents. $15.00 of it is allocated for family counseling services. Wayne County is authorized to charge more. A probate court may waive the marriage license fee in cases of undue hardship.
Blood Tests: No tests
Under 18: If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can get married with parental consent. Your parents must appear with their own identification and if a custodial parent, proof of their custody. If you are 15 or younger, you will need both parental consent and the approval of the probate court.
Marriage of a Minor: The legal marriage of a minor "shall release such minor from parental control."
Common Law Marriage: No. However, the State does recognize common law marriages that are valid in other states, or unless parties entered into the relationship prior to January 1, 1957. .
Solemnization Authority: Marriages may be solemnized by any of the following:
• Federal, probate, district, and municipal judges, and district court magistrates, in their court area;
• Mayors, in their city;
• Wayne County clerks;
• Ministers of the gospel, anywhere in the state, "if the minister is ordained or authorized to solemnize marriages according to the usages of the denomination, and is a pastor of a church in this state, or continues to preach the gospel in this state";
• Non-resident ministers of the gospel, anywhere in the state, if the minister is authorized to solemnize marriages by his or her state's laws.
Solemnization Form: No particular form or oath is required. The parties merely solemnly declare that they take each other as husband and wife before at least two witnesses and the person officiating. A special law allows "the people called Friends or Quakers" and "people of any other particular denomination, having, as such, any peculiar mode of solemnizing marriages" to solemnize their marriages in their own manner.
Solemnization Fee: Mayors and Wayne County clerks are specifically authorized to collect a fee (set by their city, or county commissioners) for solemnizing marriages. The money is to be turned in to the government. There are no specific provisions concerning fees charged by others.
Certificate: After the wedding ceremony the person who solemnizes the marriage fills in (typed or legibly printed) the certificate with the time and place of the marriage and the names and residences of the two witnesses, and signs it. The part marked "duplicate" is given to the newlyweds, and the original must be mailed to the county clerk that issued it within 10 days. The clerk records the information in a registration book, and mails it on to the the state registrar. The person who performs the marriage must also keep a record ''in a book used expressly for that purpose. The license, when fully filled out, thus serves a "double purpose" and becomes the certificate.
Officiants: A minister of the gospel who is ordained or authorized by his or her church to perform marriages and who is a pastor of a church in this state, or continues to preach the gospel in this state may perform marriages. Ministers must complete a marriage certificate and give one to the couple. Another marriage certificate must be returned to the county clerk who issued the license within 10 days after the marriage.
Valid: License is valid for 33 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Michigan.
Second Marriage: You need to know the date (mm/dd/yy) and how the last marriage ended. If it was within the last 6 months, you will need to bring proof of the divorce that can be left with the Clerk.
Same Sex Marriages: No. In November, 2004, voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/Getting_Married_in_Michigan.asp
Getting Married in Louisiana
The Marriage License
Here's what you need to know to make the marriage legal in Louisiana.
ID Requirement: Picture ID such as a driver's license along with
a certified copy of your birth certificates. You should know your Social Security numbers. You should both also know your parent's full name, mother's maiden name, and the states in which you were born.
Application Requirement: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying.
Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of Louisiana.
Waiting Period: 72 hours. The waiting period can be waived by
a judge.
Covenant Marriage: Both parties must apply in person for this license, and premarital counseling is required.
If Divorced: If previously married, you will need to show proof of how the marriage ended, I.E.; a divorce judgment or a death certificate. These must be certified copies.
Fees: $25+ They vary from parish to parish. Some will only take cash.
Other Tests: No blood test requirement.
Under 18: If either party to the marriage is between the ages of 16 and 18, the presence and signatures of both parents are required. If a parent has legal custody in a divorce, a certified copy of the judgement must be presented. If either party is under the age of 16, a court order is required in order to obtain a license.
Proxy Marriages: Both parties need not be present (unless contracting a covenant marriage), but one of the parties must be present to apply for a marriage license. That party must present identification, for the absent party, in the form of a certified birth certificate.
Miscellaneous: Louisiana has passed a Covenant Marriage Act.
Officiants: Ministers of the gospel or priests of any denomination in regular communion with any religious society may perform marriages. Ministers must register with the clerk of the district court of the parish or with the health department if in New Orleans. After performing a marriage, the minister must complete a marriage certificate and return it to the clerk of the district court.
Valid: License is valid for 30 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Louisiana.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/Getting_Married_in_Louisiana.asp
Here's what you need to know to make the marriage legal in Louisiana.
ID Requirement: Picture ID such as a driver's license along with
a certified copy of your birth certificates. You should know your Social Security numbers. You should both also know your parent's full name, mother's maiden name, and the states in which you were born.
Application Requirement: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying.
Residency Requirement: Do not have to be a resident of Louisiana.
Waiting Period: 72 hours. The waiting period can be waived by
a judge.
Covenant Marriage: Both parties must apply in person for this license, and premarital counseling is required.
If Divorced: If previously married, you will need to show proof of how the marriage ended, I.E.; a divorce judgment or a death certificate. These must be certified copies.
Fees: $25+ They vary from parish to parish. Some will only take cash.
Other Tests: No blood test requirement.
Under 18: If either party to the marriage is between the ages of 16 and 18, the presence and signatures of both parents are required. If a parent has legal custody in a divorce, a certified copy of the judgement must be presented. If either party is under the age of 16, a court order is required in order to obtain a license.
Proxy Marriages: Both parties need not be present (unless contracting a covenant marriage), but one of the parties must be present to apply for a marriage license. That party must present identification, for the absent party, in the form of a certified birth certificate.
Miscellaneous: Louisiana has passed a Covenant Marriage Act.
Officiants: Ministers of the gospel or priests of any denomination in regular communion with any religious society may perform marriages. Ministers must register with the clerk of the district court of the parish or with the health department if in New Orleans. After performing a marriage, the minister must complete a marriage certificate and return it to the clerk of the district court.
Valid: License is valid for 30 days.
The license can only be used within the State of Louisiana.
http://www.wedalert.com/content/articles/Getting_Married_in_Louisiana.asp
Friday, May 18, 2007
A Tattoo Is Forever - So Beware
Tattoos have been all the rage now for years. They’ve survived the spike in popularity they enjoyed after the whole Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and grunge rock craze. That was the era that started it all. People wore flannels, got pierced every which way, and then got ink on their backs, their butts, their necks, faces, foreheads, you name it. Then the craze went mainstream. Frat boys and girls started popping up with pierced belly buttons and nipples at spring break. They’d flex their biceps to show off the wraparound tattoo on their arms, or they’d bend over in their bikinis to show off the spread on their lower backs.
And yet the craze continues, despite the fact that R&B and rap is the new top 10 music of choice, and despite the fact that people finally came to realize that yes, tattoos are forever. Sure, you can take a piercing out of your eyebrow, but you need a laser beam to burn that ex lover’s name off your ankle.
That leaves you—knowing the realities of tattooing, but still seriously considering the move. That’s nothing to be ashamed about. We’ll assume you’ve thought through the decision and came up with a kick-butt piece of art to stencil into your body. But have you put serious thought into where you will get the tattooing done? This is a serious consideration, because as the number of people wanting tattoos has skyrocketed, so has the number of tattoo parlors. And many of these parlors aren’t up to snuff, especially considering some of the tattoo artists out there.
So your job now is to track down those artists, the tattoo parlors that can put a piece of art on your body, and can do it in a clean and sanitary way. So first, ask around to your friends who have had work done before. See where they went, what they thought, and how their tattoos look now. Are they faded? Blurred? Raised? Or in any other way disfigured or not as crisp and attractive as the tattoos were when they were first drilled in?
Once you have a short list of parlors from friends and family, check out each one. Make sure that they have autoclave and sterilization certifications. Watch them perform on someone. Did the tattoo artist wear gloves while they were working? Do the artists have certifications to prove they’re the real deal? And once last question you should ask: are the artists vaccinated for hepatitis B? That can be a tricky question to pose, but if they’re professionals, the tattoo artists shouldn’t mind answering that one.
If they’re willing, also ask the tattoo parlor for a tour of the place. Take a look at their instruments. Are they clean and sanitary looking? Are all the inks, water, and ointment stored in different containers? Are the needles taken directly from autoclave, and sterilized, bags, and are the needles then immediately disposed of after use?
And believe it or not, ink should be fresh for every person, too. Watch how the tattoo artists use their ink. For every new person, colors should be poured into separate cups. Any ink that is left over should then be thrown out. Just as with needles, sharing ink is not a good idea.
Once you’ve done the rounds at several ink shops, you should find one that you feel comfortable with. If not, it’s worth it to wait, ask around some more, and track down that perfect parlor for your first tattoo.
Make sure you read up on all aspects of getting a tattoo before you finally lay needle to skin. You can find more information on the best tips at the top Tattoo site - Tattoo Body Art
http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Tattoo-Is-Forever---So-Beware&id=562833
And yet the craze continues, despite the fact that R&B and rap is the new top 10 music of choice, and despite the fact that people finally came to realize that yes, tattoos are forever. Sure, you can take a piercing out of your eyebrow, but you need a laser beam to burn that ex lover’s name off your ankle.
That leaves you—knowing the realities of tattooing, but still seriously considering the move. That’s nothing to be ashamed about. We’ll assume you’ve thought through the decision and came up with a kick-butt piece of art to stencil into your body. But have you put serious thought into where you will get the tattooing done? This is a serious consideration, because as the number of people wanting tattoos has skyrocketed, so has the number of tattoo parlors. And many of these parlors aren’t up to snuff, especially considering some of the tattoo artists out there.
So your job now is to track down those artists, the tattoo parlors that can put a piece of art on your body, and can do it in a clean and sanitary way. So first, ask around to your friends who have had work done before. See where they went, what they thought, and how their tattoos look now. Are they faded? Blurred? Raised? Or in any other way disfigured or not as crisp and attractive as the tattoos were when they were first drilled in?
Once you have a short list of parlors from friends and family, check out each one. Make sure that they have autoclave and sterilization certifications. Watch them perform on someone. Did the tattoo artist wear gloves while they were working? Do the artists have certifications to prove they’re the real deal? And once last question you should ask: are the artists vaccinated for hepatitis B? That can be a tricky question to pose, but if they’re professionals, the tattoo artists shouldn’t mind answering that one.
If they’re willing, also ask the tattoo parlor for a tour of the place. Take a look at their instruments. Are they clean and sanitary looking? Are all the inks, water, and ointment stored in different containers? Are the needles taken directly from autoclave, and sterilized, bags, and are the needles then immediately disposed of after use?
And believe it or not, ink should be fresh for every person, too. Watch how the tattoo artists use their ink. For every new person, colors should be poured into separate cups. Any ink that is left over should then be thrown out. Just as with needles, sharing ink is not a good idea.
Once you’ve done the rounds at several ink shops, you should find one that you feel comfortable with. If not, it’s worth it to wait, ask around some more, and track down that perfect parlor for your first tattoo.
Make sure you read up on all aspects of getting a tattoo before you finally lay needle to skin. You can find more information on the best tips at the top Tattoo site - Tattoo Body Art
http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Tattoo-Is-Forever---So-Beware&id=562833
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