by Steven McCarthy

Many people decide on a art tattoo design based on a special occurrence in their lives. It might be a deceased loved one's name or even a current husband or wife. People want to let others know that their tattoo has meaning and is not just a passing fancy. Regardless of modern reasons, the tattoo once held deeper meaning. It could mean the difference between life and death for the wearer.

Most associations with Henna tattoo's are from those found on Indian brides. The soon to be married girl would be brought into a room where her family and friends would begin designing her temporary tattoo. The body would be decorated with a series of lines and symbols telling a story. Anyone not aware of the subtle meaning would simply find the designs beautiful. The significance of tattooing the bride is such that as long as she is still wearing the dye, she is still honeymooning and is not expected to perform chores.

Surprisingly though, the tattoo design found most often on Yakuza members is that of beautiful scenes and elaborate details. The method used though is less than beautiful. Yakuza members, as a way to test their resolve and strength, do not get tattooed with a tattoo machine. It is a hand held instrument that is not without pain. The images are not just a back tattoo either. They span the entire body from collar to ankle.

In Russia the tattoo design found on many of the country's prison inmates is a message to other people of their deeds and sins. It is a way to identify how dangerous a person is. One man might be wearing a tattoo design signifying that he is a head figure while another might be forcefully tattooed as an informant.

The language of the tattoo used to be a secret code known only to those in the "know" but with research the meanings have come to light. The social hierarchy of the criminal world is understood. If a criminal tattoo's an untruth or exaggeration the punishment inflicted by others is harsh. The tattoo is either cut off or sandpapered off.

The tattoo design in Russia's history was not just limited to the criminal element. In an oppressive government sometimes the only way to rebel was to get a tattoo design belittling one of the political tyrants. This was a way to send a message to other people when freedom of speech and press was not allowed.

An art tattoo may still be considered a mark of stigma for older generations. This is especially true of more conservative individuals in their latter years of life. Even middle aged individuals find themselves regretting the tokens of their past and are turning to laser tattoo removal as a way to erase those memories. Younger generations are enthralled with the idea of ink marking their rites of passage from childhood to adulthood.

The tattoo design has reached a new level acceptance due to television shows such as TLC's Miami Ink. Viewers watch individuals of all walk's of life coming into the parlor to become etched with ink. Some are dedicated works of art depicting lost loved ones or as a tribute to special people in the tattooed person's life. The reasons are many and the tattoo machine, throughout the world, is working overtime to make those marks.

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