Thursday, 10 June 2010
My 3 FMP Ideas
My 3 FMP Ideas
When we first got given the brief to work on our ideas for our fmp, my first initial idea that sprung to mind was stereotyping.
The reason for this idea, is that I studied it for my GCSE Art, and already have a bit of knowledge backed up on it. So when we got given the task to come up with three ideas for the fmp, this was my main one. When I did this topic for my GCSE I studied the main two stereotypes at the time, which was “Emo” and “Chav”. I studied these because I had strong opinions on them, as I used to be bullied because I was categorised into one of these groups. But as I progressed through the years and these stereotypes were then pushed into the background, it then became prominent that there were lots of other stereotypes that mattered a great deal more. These are the stereotypes that I wanted to study and make everyone aware of.
These stereotypes are general things you come across everyday, such as sexism, racism, and also a little child abuse. I think that these stereotypes matter a lot and I have very strong opinions on the way that people react and act towards them. With my fmp, I didn’t just want to get the grades I wanted, I also wanted to open up peoples eyes to the world, and try and get people to understand that everyone is different, but at the same time, we are all the same and equal to each other. I didn’t know how this would turn out, but it was something I really wanted to give ago.
For the content of my FMP, (Interactive piece, 3D, website), I wasn’t quite sure about what I wanted to create, but that didn’t matter as my interest was then turned to something else. This was due to the fact that I found that this idea was going to need a lot of filming done, and I felt limited to what I could achieve.
I then took a day to try and think of another theme I could present, and on that day “Monsters Inc” appeared on TV. So whilst watching this, I was concentrating on the 3D modelling that had been used and thought that the creatures looked really good and also quite strange. This them brought to my attention that I could use mythical and fantasy creatures as my theme.
With this I wanted to use fantasy and mythical creatures as my main block background and research, but then once that is done, start making my own fantasy world with different creatures that I had created. I liked this idea as I thought it would be quite fun to do, as well as fun to look at.
For my interactive piece, I was pondering around the idea of making a maze, in which you had to get away from the minotaur. Another idea was to have a couple of creatures that I had made up and making it into a book, so you flick through the pages to have a look at a biography about them and also an 3D video.
For my 3D I was thinking of just a few creatures running about and interacting. I wasn’t too sure what to do for my website, but was again pondering on the idea of doing something to do with a “create your own creature”, and having some info about mythical and fantasy creatures.
I then scrapped this idea as I lost interest in it within the first week.
The third idea that I came up with was body art. Again I studied this for my GCSE Art, but tied it with stereotyping, so I still had a lot of knowledge behind me, but again, in my GCSE Art, I only studied a fraction of it.
With my fmp I wanted to study a lot more then a fraction, which meant looking at tattooing, piercing, scarification, hair colour, makeup and also body and face paint. I didn’t want to achieve anything proper with this, as I knew that a lot of people, even myself was disgusted with some of the things that can be done. I just wanted to study it and play around with the looks of people.
This idea was then pushed into the background as I though it was kind of boring and involved a hell of a lot of work. This then pushed me onto narrowing it down. So Instead of looking at body art, I started looking at tattoos and the design process of them.
With this, my idea was to show people that tattooing isn’t a violation to the skin, its an art just like any other. It gives you the chance to express yourself and show who you are. For this I wanted to come up with a lot of my own designs and also take photos of other peoples, so I would have to spend a lot of time down my local tattooists. I also wanted to have an interview with a couple of tattooists to show it from the point of view. All of this content would then be shown to the public via my interactive piece and my website.
When we first got given the brief to work on our ideas for our fmp, my first initial idea that sprung to mind was stereotyping.
The reason for this idea, is that I studied it for my GCSE Art, and already have a bit of knowledge backed up on it. So when we got given the task to come up with three ideas for the fmp, this was my main one. When I did this topic for my GCSE I studied the main two stereotypes at the time, which was “Emo” and “Chav”. I studied these because I had strong opinions on them, as I used to be bullied because I was categorised into one of these groups. But as I progressed through the years and these stereotypes were then pushed into the background, it then became prominent that there were lots of other stereotypes that mattered a great deal more. These are the stereotypes that I wanted to study and make everyone aware of.
These stereotypes are general things you come across everyday, such as sexism, racism, and also a little child abuse. I think that these stereotypes matter a lot and I have very strong opinions on the way that people react and act towards them. With my fmp, I didn’t just want to get the grades I wanted, I also wanted to open up peoples eyes to the world, and try and get people to understand that everyone is different, but at the same time, we are all the same and equal to each other. I didn’t know how this would turn out, but it was something I really wanted to give ago.
For the content of my FMP, (Interactive piece, 3D, website), I wasn’t quite sure about what I wanted to create, but that didn’t matter as my interest was then turned to something else. This was due to the fact that I found that this idea was going to need a lot of filming done, and I felt limited to what I could achieve.
I then took a day to try and think of another theme I could present, and on that day “Monsters Inc” appeared on TV. So whilst watching this, I was concentrating on the 3D modelling that had been used and thought that the creatures looked really good and also quite strange. This them brought to my attention that I could use mythical and fantasy creatures as my theme.
With this I wanted to use fantasy and mythical creatures as my main block background and research, but then once that is done, start making my own fantasy world with different creatures that I had created. I liked this idea as I thought it would be quite fun to do, as well as fun to look at.
For my interactive piece, I was pondering around the idea of making a maze, in which you had to get away from the minotaur. Another idea was to have a couple of creatures that I had made up and making it into a book, so you flick through the pages to have a look at a biography about them and also an 3D video.
For my 3D I was thinking of just a few creatures running about and interacting. I wasn’t too sure what to do for my website, but was again pondering on the idea of doing something to do with a “create your own creature”, and having some info about mythical and fantasy creatures.
I then scrapped this idea as I lost interest in it within the first week.
The third idea that I came up with was body art. Again I studied this for my GCSE Art, but tied it with stereotyping, so I still had a lot of knowledge behind me, but again, in my GCSE Art, I only studied a fraction of it.
With my fmp I wanted to study a lot more then a fraction, which meant looking at tattooing, piercing, scarification, hair colour, makeup and also body and face paint. I didn’t want to achieve anything proper with this, as I knew that a lot of people, even myself was disgusted with some of the things that can be done. I just wanted to study it and play around with the looks of people.
This idea was then pushed into the background as I though it was kind of boring and involved a hell of a lot of work. This then pushed me onto narrowing it down. So Instead of looking at body art, I started looking at tattoos and the design process of them.
With this, my idea was to show people that tattooing isn’t a violation to the skin, its an art just like any other. It gives you the chance to express yourself and show who you are. For this I wanted to come up with a lot of my own designs and also take photos of other peoples, so I would have to spend a lot of time down my local tattooists. I also wanted to have an interview with a couple of tattooists to show it from the point of view. All of this content would then be shown to the public via my interactive piece and my website.
My Final FMP Proposal
PROJECT PROPOSAL
EDEXCEL LEVEL 3 BTEC NATIONAL CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA IN ART AND DESIGN
This section to be completed by the Learner
Learner Name: Hannah Powell
BTEC Registration Number:
Centre Name: Coleg Gwent, Newport
Centre Number:
Specialist Area: Interactive Media
Date: 08-12-09
PROJECT PROPOSAL
I have chosen body art as my FMP theme.
I have had many ideas for this theme, some are listed in my draft of this proposal. The idea that I am going to go ahead with is within the area of tattooing, henna and also makeup. I will start with these three as the main focus and if be needed, drop one along the way.
With these topics, I am going to show the design side of body art. This will include. Why people get tattoos, why people use henna, and also why does the majority of people wear makeup. I
also want to go into detail with it. Showing my own designs, other peoples designs and tattoos, styles of makeup and henna, and what it’s used for… for example, henna is used in weddings, in different religions. I want to show good designs, bad designs and meanings behind them.
This way, I feel I can express my creative side a lot more.
This project will include, my own designs, hand drawn and done in photoshop, maybe illustrator, my own tattoos (as well as films of people being tattooed (maybe)), other peoples tattoos and designs. Makeup designs and also henna designs.
As well as all of the designs, it will also involve events that have happened in these areas, famous designers, makeup artists and tattooists. It will also include meanings behind tattoos and also looking into tribal tattoos and makeup and their meanings.
Interactive Piece, Website and 3D
I haven’t set a plan for these yet, as I haven’t really got to think about them a lot, due to the fact I had no idea what my theme was. I don’t think I will finalise these for a while, until I have done a bit of research and am settled into my idea.
I have a few ideas for them already, such as:
An art gallery displaying my designs for tattoos, henna and makeup and also my photography of other peoples tattoos and makeup styles. :: Website Idea
An Ident that is shown on my website including vector lines, similar to the MTV Idents/ adverts. :: 3D Idea
An Idea I have had is a game that you have to design your own tattoos and then display it on a human or figure. Another idea was that, you have to draw a tattoo over a template, in a certain amount of time. If it’s all over the place, then you loose. If you have done it right, then you go to the next level where a harder one is placed. :: Game Idea
EDEXCEL LEVEL 3 BTEC NATIONAL CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA IN ART AND DESIGN
This section to be completed by the Learner
Learner Name: Hannah Powell
BTEC Registration Number:
Centre Name: Coleg Gwent, Newport
Centre Number:
Specialist Area: Interactive Media
Date: 08-12-09
PROJECT PROPOSAL
I have chosen body art as my FMP theme.
I have had many ideas for this theme, some are listed in my draft of this proposal. The idea that I am going to go ahead with is within the area of tattooing, henna and also makeup. I will start with these three as the main focus and if be needed, drop one along the way.
With these topics, I am going to show the design side of body art. This will include. Why people get tattoos, why people use henna, and also why does the majority of people wear makeup. I
also want to go into detail with it. Showing my own designs, other peoples designs and tattoos, styles of makeup and henna, and what it’s used for… for example, henna is used in weddings, in different religions. I want to show good designs, bad designs and meanings behind them.
This way, I feel I can express my creative side a lot more.
This project will include, my own designs, hand drawn and done in photoshop, maybe illustrator, my own tattoos (as well as films of people being tattooed (maybe)), other peoples tattoos and designs. Makeup designs and also henna designs.
As well as all of the designs, it will also involve events that have happened in these areas, famous designers, makeup artists and tattooists. It will also include meanings behind tattoos and also looking into tribal tattoos and makeup and their meanings.
Interactive Piece, Website and 3D
I haven’t set a plan for these yet, as I haven’t really got to think about them a lot, due to the fact I had no idea what my theme was. I don’t think I will finalise these for a while, until I have done a bit of research and am settled into my idea.
I have a few ideas for them already, such as:
An art gallery displaying my designs for tattoos, henna and makeup and also my photography of other peoples tattoos and makeup styles. :: Website Idea
An Ident that is shown on my website including vector lines, similar to the MTV Idents/ adverts. :: 3D Idea
An Idea I have had is a game that you have to design your own tattoos and then display it on a human or figure. Another idea was that, you have to draw a tattoo over a template, in a certain amount of time. If it’s all over the place, then you loose. If you have done it right, then you go to the next level where a harder one is placed. :: Game Idea
My FMP Proposal Draft
FMP Proposal
The theme I have chose for my fmp is body art
So what is body art.
Body art Is any form of media used on the body, whether it is hair dye, makeup or even tattooing something onto you. This is what I think is body art. Articles from the web describe it as:
“Body art is art made on, with, or consisting of, the human body. The most common forms of body art are tattoos and body piercings, but other types include scarification, branding, scalpelling, shaping (for example tight-lacing of corsets), full body tattoo and body painting.
More extreme body art can involve things such as mutilation or pushing the body to its physical limits. For example, one of Marina Abramović's works involved dancing until she collapsed from exhaustion, while one of Dennis Oppenheim's better-known works saw him lying in the sunlight with a book on his chest, until his skin, excluding that covered by the book, was badly sunburned. It can even consist of the arrangement and dissection of preserved bodies in an artistic fashion, as in the case of the plastinated bodies used in the travelling Body Worlds exhibit.
Body art is also a sub-category of performance art, in which artists use or abuse their own body to make their particular statements”. :: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_art
“Body art is one of the earliest forms of artistic expression know to humankind. It has been used to indicate status, religious devotion, desired protection against evil and disease, and much more.
Today, people express many different reasons for getting various forms of body art. Some of them are a means of personal expression, while others continue to decorate their bodies as a means of commemorating an important event/time in their lives (i.e., 21st birthday).” :: http://www.villanova.edu/studentlife/healthandwellness/resources.htm?page=bodyart_piercing.htm
Now we know what it is, why have I chose it?
I have chosen this theme because Its one I find interesting. I like the fact it shows that art is not just limited to a canvas, wall, paper or anything like that… in this case, your body is the canvas. Although saying this, everything around us is classed as art, such as a table. The art of this is design technology.
I accept that a lot of people don’t feel that this is right, and think that body art is not actually an art at all. But I find it funny that people are willing to dye their hair, wear makeup and even have peircings (in ears particularly), but when it comes to tattoos, scarification and also peircings other then the ears, people will find this unacceptable and disgusting. But this is not the case I would like to discuss in my FMP.
The main reason I have chosen body art as my theme is that there is a lot of information packed into it. From the opinions of the generations, tribal meanings, stereotyping, gang symbols and so much more. This then resulting in a wide range of sub themes I can choose from.
What about body art am I wanting to go into?
Well, I have came down a rocky road to this choice as I have been so lost in all the sub themes, that I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, and am still pondering on this idea.
I originally wanted to talk about the stereotyping within body art itself, such as males gets skull tattoos and females get butterflies, so on, so forth. I then ended up on a different road in a completely different direction, wanting to do something towards the fact, that different people and generations think differently upon body art. I wanted to show to people, who frowned upon it, that it wasn’t that bad an art. Hopefully resulting in reaching out to some people, aiming to be able to change their opinions on it.
After a while of thinking about this, I then decided I didn’t particularly like the idea, due to the facts, it’s a really hard topic to pull off, and its something I am not really interested in.
Different ideas kept popping into my mind from then, and not long ago, an Idea hit me, which I think would be perfect.
Instead of looking at the whole of body art in general, I would split off into a few of the topics. The topics I would like to split off into, is tattooing, henna and also makeup. I will then start with these three and if be needed, drop one along the way.
So, I now have the categories I want… now what am I going to do?
Now I have got the topics, I am now going to show the design side of it. This will include. Why people get tattoos, why people use henna, and also why does the majority of people wear makeup. I also want to go into detail with it. Showing my own designs, other peoples designs and tattoos, styles of makeup and henna, and what it’s used for… for example, henna is used in weddings, in different religions.
All together, I think that body art has its bad side, and its good side, just like everything else, and what I want to show in this project is neither, but the design side of it. Good designs, bad designs and meanings behind them.
This way, I feel I can express my creative side a lot more.
So I have my theme set to go, now what about the interactive piece, 3D and website?
Well, I haven’t set a plan for these yet, as I haven’t really got to think about them a lot, due to the fact I had no idea what my theme was. I don’t think I will finalise these for a while, until I have done a bit of research and am settled into my idea.
I have a few ideas for them already, such as:
An art gallery displaying my designs for tattoos, henna and makeup and also my photography of other peoples tattoos and makeup styles. :: Website Idea
An Ident that is shown on my website including vector lines, similar to the MTV Idents/ adverts. :: 3D Idea
An Idea I have had is a game that you have to design your own tattoos and then display it on a human or figure. Another idea was that, you have to draw a tattoo over a template, in a certain amount of time. If it’s all over the place, then you loose. If you have done it right, then you go to the next level where a harder one is placed. :: Game Idea
Note:: A lot of my ideas and work will be posted on my blog throughout the year.
The URL for my new blog is: http://haychfmp.blogspot.com/
You can also find some of my FMP proposal work on my old blog.
The URL for my old blog is: http://haychs-fmp.blogspot.com/
The theme I have chose for my fmp is body art
So what is body art.
Body art Is any form of media used on the body, whether it is hair dye, makeup or even tattooing something onto you. This is what I think is body art. Articles from the web describe it as:
“Body art is art made on, with, or consisting of, the human body. The most common forms of body art are tattoos and body piercings, but other types include scarification, branding, scalpelling, shaping (for example tight-lacing of corsets), full body tattoo and body painting.
More extreme body art can involve things such as mutilation or pushing the body to its physical limits. For example, one of Marina Abramović's works involved dancing until she collapsed from exhaustion, while one of Dennis Oppenheim's better-known works saw him lying in the sunlight with a book on his chest, until his skin, excluding that covered by the book, was badly sunburned. It can even consist of the arrangement and dissection of preserved bodies in an artistic fashion, as in the case of the plastinated bodies used in the travelling Body Worlds exhibit.
Body art is also a sub-category of performance art, in which artists use or abuse their own body to make their particular statements”. :: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_art
“Body art is one of the earliest forms of artistic expression know to humankind. It has been used to indicate status, religious devotion, desired protection against evil and disease, and much more.
Today, people express many different reasons for getting various forms of body art. Some of them are a means of personal expression, while others continue to decorate their bodies as a means of commemorating an important event/time in their lives (i.e., 21st birthday).” :: http://www.villanova.edu/studentlife/healthandwellness/resources.htm?page=bodyart_piercing.htm
Now we know what it is, why have I chose it?
I have chosen this theme because Its one I find interesting. I like the fact it shows that art is not just limited to a canvas, wall, paper or anything like that… in this case, your body is the canvas. Although saying this, everything around us is classed as art, such as a table. The art of this is design technology.
I accept that a lot of people don’t feel that this is right, and think that body art is not actually an art at all. But I find it funny that people are willing to dye their hair, wear makeup and even have peircings (in ears particularly), but when it comes to tattoos, scarification and also peircings other then the ears, people will find this unacceptable and disgusting. But this is not the case I would like to discuss in my FMP.
The main reason I have chosen body art as my theme is that there is a lot of information packed into it. From the opinions of the generations, tribal meanings, stereotyping, gang symbols and so much more. This then resulting in a wide range of sub themes I can choose from.
What about body art am I wanting to go into?
Well, I have came down a rocky road to this choice as I have been so lost in all the sub themes, that I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, and am still pondering on this idea.
I originally wanted to talk about the stereotyping within body art itself, such as males gets skull tattoos and females get butterflies, so on, so forth. I then ended up on a different road in a completely different direction, wanting to do something towards the fact, that different people and generations think differently upon body art. I wanted to show to people, who frowned upon it, that it wasn’t that bad an art. Hopefully resulting in reaching out to some people, aiming to be able to change their opinions on it.
After a while of thinking about this, I then decided I didn’t particularly like the idea, due to the facts, it’s a really hard topic to pull off, and its something I am not really interested in.
Different ideas kept popping into my mind from then, and not long ago, an Idea hit me, which I think would be perfect.
Instead of looking at the whole of body art in general, I would split off into a few of the topics. The topics I would like to split off into, is tattooing, henna and also makeup. I will then start with these three and if be needed, drop one along the way.
So, I now have the categories I want… now what am I going to do?
Now I have got the topics, I am now going to show the design side of it. This will include. Why people get tattoos, why people use henna, and also why does the majority of people wear makeup. I also want to go into detail with it. Showing my own designs, other peoples designs and tattoos, styles of makeup and henna, and what it’s used for… for example, henna is used in weddings, in different religions.
All together, I think that body art has its bad side, and its good side, just like everything else, and what I want to show in this project is neither, but the design side of it. Good designs, bad designs and meanings behind them.
This way, I feel I can express my creative side a lot more.
So I have my theme set to go, now what about the interactive piece, 3D and website?
Well, I haven’t set a plan for these yet, as I haven’t really got to think about them a lot, due to the fact I had no idea what my theme was. I don’t think I will finalise these for a while, until I have done a bit of research and am settled into my idea.
I have a few ideas for them already, such as:
An art gallery displaying my designs for tattoos, henna and makeup and also my photography of other peoples tattoos and makeup styles. :: Website Idea
An Ident that is shown on my website including vector lines, similar to the MTV Idents/ adverts. :: 3D Idea
An Idea I have had is a game that you have to design your own tattoos and then display it on a human or figure. Another idea was that, you have to draw a tattoo over a template, in a certain amount of time. If it’s all over the place, then you loose. If you have done it right, then you go to the next level where a harder one is placed. :: Game Idea
Note:: A lot of my ideas and work will be posted on my blog throughout the year.
The URL for my new blog is: http://haychfmp.blogspot.com/
You can also find some of my FMP proposal work on my old blog.
The URL for my old blog is: http://haychs-fmp.blogspot.com/
Research: My Second Essay
TattooingTips.Com - A Beginners Guide to Tattoos and Tattooing
In this site you will find pages about different topics pertaining to body art and tattooing. We take great pride in presenting you step by step guide to tattoo to make it a memorable experience throughout your life. This comprehensive guide will show you all the tricks and tips on how to get yourself tattooed. What you will learn:
1- Guidelines for safe tattooing
2- Caring for your new Tattoo
3- Tattooing Aftercare and Healing Instructions
4- Tattoo Removal Methods and Techniques
5- Potential Health Risks, Infections and Complications
6- Body Piercing
Cost of Getting a Tattoo
- Tattoo: History
- Before You Get Tattooed
- Tattoo Healing and Aftercare
- Choosing the Right Tattoo Design
- Tattoo Removal Techniques
Cost of Getting a Tattoo
Although the cost of tattoos can end up being quite high, there are still many ways to save and yet still in the end have just the tattoo you were looking for. Since there are many steps involved before the tattoo is actually finished, there are many things that can be done differently in order to reduce the cost of tattoos. By taking all factors into consideration it is possible to save a substantial amount of money and the cost of tattoos can become affordable for anyone.
The first thing to consider before deciding on a tattoo shop is if they charge by the piece being done or by the hour. No matter how the price is determined, the cost of tattoos will not be under $40 since this is the standard minimum fee charged regardless of tattoo size and number of colors. Keep in mind that the cost of tattoos done by an artist that charges by the hour is normally not as negotiable as that of one that charges a set price for the complete job. The cost of tattoos that require a lot of colors and are large in size will be more expensive if they have to be paid for by the hour and in this case to handle a fair price for the complete tattoo will be more advantageous. The cost of tattoos can be substantially reduced in this case and one price is better than paying anywhere from $80 to $100 for each hour, especially since such colorful and elaborate tattoos require many hours or even sessions to complete. The pricing is for that reason the most important variable when reducing the cost of tattoos.
Another way to reduce the cost of tattoos is to think about where it should be placed on your body. This is a major factor, because some body parts are more difficult to tattoo than others and also more expensive. For example, a tattoo placed on the shoulder is quite easy to do whereas a tattoo on the lower part of the back is very difficult. For this reason the same tattoo done on the shoulder will be significantly cheaper than if done on the lower back. Although money can be saved, the place is also of great importance since the tattoo will be a permanent part of the body and the cost of tattoos should not be based on which body part is the cheapest to tattoo. The cost of tattoos on sensitive body parts will always be expensive and each artist will tend to spontaneously think of a price when asked about this kind of job.
The cost of tattoos is also partially based on the design being used. Exclusively created designs are more expensive than the common ones. By bringing your own design template with you it is possible to negotiate a better price, because the design is from you and not from the tattoo artist. Designs can be found on the internet and although some are for free, the more exquisite ones also cost money so it has to be carefully planned if this method is to reduce the cost of tattoos.
By taking these tips into consideration it will be possible to reduce the cost of tattoos. The key is to do research on your own before going to local tattoo shops and then to ask around about the cost of tattoos. Once the best prices have been located then these tips can be put into use and may just get you a larger, more colorful tattoo for the price of a small and plain one. The cost of tattoos can always be reduced and the amount saved depends on how prepared you are.
Tattoo: History
Do you want to look different from the crowd? Does tattooing fascinate you? What's the safest mode to get a tattoo? Knowing all these facts can help in deciding whether an idea to get a tattoo is good for you. The history of tattoos commenced over 5000 years ago. A remarkable effort in the discovery of tattooing in the Bronze Age was that when in 1991, a frozen body of five thousand year old tattooed man was found on a mountain between Austria and Italy. The body was bearing almost 57 tattoos and positions of the tattoos suggest that they were applied for therapeutic reasons.
The history of tattoos starts from Egypt during the time of the construction of its great pyramids. When the Egyptians empire expanded, the art of tattooing started spreading as well. The Greeks started using tattoos for communication among spies. Markings on the body identified the spies and represented their rank. But in Rome the criminals and slaves were marked. So the practice of tattooing spread everywhere in the world. This practice is still carried on today. Some use tattoos in showing social status while others use it as a mark of cultural tradition.
In today’s era the art of tattooing is very popular among the youngsters. The property of the outlaws, sailors and bikers gang is now a fashionable art of body decoration for many people. Now a lot of marks are used by different people to express themselves with their tattoos. The common marks include the anchors, birth signs, skulls, school or organization’ s emblems, battleships, love marks and many more. A tattoo is a punctured wound that is made deep into the skin by filling the ink. It is a dermal pigmentation or a mark which is generally made by inserting decorative pigment into the skin. Tattoos are a type of decorative body alterations that are used for identification, representation, branding and expression.
Tattoos can be done manually by using a needle to puncture the skin or by tattoo machines which uses a tube and a needle system. Needles are used to inject the ink into the deeper layer of skin called dermis and thus make a tattoo permanent. Before putting tattoos a tattoo artist should know how deep to drive the needle into your skin, as going too deep can cause bleeding and intense pain. Many things have to be taken care before getting a tattoo safely on your skin. The major thing to be considered is proper hygiene. A body modification artist is required to wash his or her hands before starting tattooing a client. The use of disposable gloves is also mandatory to avoid cross contamination. Even the equipment’s are autoclaved with an approved disinfectant before using them in the task of tattooing such as counter tops, machines, and furniture.
At last it is important to get a tattoo on your body with ultimate safety so that there is no chance of skin disruption or harm. It is always a fun to have tattoos on the body as they really make a unique mark on personal identity.
Before You Get Tattooed
Before you get tattooed you should be aware of all the steps that need to be taken prior to the tattooing process. Although the idea to get yourself a tattoo sometimes crops up on the spur of the moment, it is not a good idea to just go ahead and choose one that you like and have the artist do it. Before you get tattooed it should be clear that it would be with you for a lifetime, unless you undergo a painful and expensive removal process. Not only is the fact important that a tattoo is permanent, but also give sterility an equal priority. Before you get tattooed you should know about the health aspects and make sure you find a professional artist that will not endanger you in any way.
Before you get tattooed you should be sure of the design. That means that before you get tattooed you should look at the patterns different professionals have and get a rough idea of what you want. It is also worth looking through Internet sites, because many websites have tattoo patterns that can be purchased and printed. Even if you have to pay some money for the perfect design, it is still worth doing so before you get tattooed with a picture you don’t like. Although the design is important, the inks to be used should also be proofed before you get tattooed, because some colors are of high quality and are brilliant whereas others are dull, fade and generally do not look good.
Before you get tattooed you should also make sure that the tattoo artist knows about sterility and uses fresh ink and needles. If used needles are used, there is a chance of a disease being transferred or maybe even some kind of skin reaction. The best thing to do before you get tattooed is to talk to several professional tattoo artists and ask about their experience in the tattoo industry. Personally meeting the artist also leaves an impression of whether or not the artist is clean and gives importance to hygiene or whether they are dirty and sloppy. Before you get tattooed, just glance through the artist’s portfolio, something every professional will have and here you can see how good their tattoos look like and if they are really good or not.
Before you get tattooed make sure that you are relaxed and are capable of staying still for awhile. If you move a lot, it will waste your time and make it hard for the tattoo artist to do a good job. Another thing to think of before you get tattooed is of the after care. Once a tattoo is done, you will have to take care of your tattoo by keeping it clean and also to prevent it drying up.
Before you get tattooed there is much to learn and keep in mind when looking around. Being unsure of the process before you get tattooed may result in a mistake that will be regretted for a long time to come.
Tattoo Healing and Aftercare
Getting a tattoo is hard enough, but the tattoo healing and after care is another process that is necessary to do carefully. Not only is tattoo healing and after care good for your skin and well being, but also for the tattoo itself. This is because the tattoo healing and after care is decisive on how the tattoo will permanently look.
The tattoo healing and after care time period is usually around a month long. During this time it is especially important to take proper care of the new tattoo. During the first phase of tattoo healing and after care, which takes place for the first four or five days after the tattoo is done, you may experience pain, soreness, swelling, irritation and even redness of the skin. This is a very important phase for the tattoo healing and after care and of utmost importance to keep the tattoo completely clean. In fact you will have to clean it with mild soap and water at least five times a day. After cleaning you will have to gently pat the area dry and this is necessary to complete the tattoo healing and after care. Using an antibiotic cream during this part of the tattoo healing and after care time can help reduce infections and relieve soreness.
The second phase is also the final stage and this is the longer period of tattoo healing and after care. This phase of the tattoo healing and after care lasts three or four weeks and it also influences just how your tattoo will look for the rest of your life. During this stage of the tattoo healing and after care process that tattoo has a tendency to get dry. A dried out tattoo will not look good and for this reason you will need moisturizers. Keeping a tattoo area moist will also prevent or reduce scabbing and infections, another aspect of tattoo healing and after care that should not be overlooked. Scabbing can produce scars on the tattoo which will make it unattractive from the start. Sunlight is also bad for the tattoo and also has to be avoided during the tattoo healing and after care time. If you live in a sunny area or have a tattoo done while on vacation, consider this fact and it will make taking care of the tattoo easier.
For the tattoo healing and after care it is important to use a special cream product. Any moisturizing cream should meet certain requirements, such as no artificial colors or fragrances. There are many tattoo healing and after care products available so it is best to ask the professional artist about what is best and let them also demonstrate how to do everything. A cream should at any rate contain the vitamins A and C to reduce the redness and irritation during the tattoo healing and after care time.
Tattoo healing and after care is very important and should not be neglected. It greatly affects the overall tattoo look and by taking time to learn about tattoo healing and after care you will have the best possible results.
Choosing the Right Tattoo Design
Deciding on a tattoo design for your body should not be a mere impulsive decision. You need to put lot of thought into it to make that decision a success. Otherwise you will regret your tattoo selection for years to come.
First question you should ask yourself, before deciding on a tattoo design for your skin, is whether the selected tattoo design is compatible with the image you want to project to the world. In doing so you should remember that tattoo will remain in your skin for years to come. Do you want to have that tattoo design on your skin ten, twenty, or thirty, years into the future? Removing tattoo is difficult and expensive and not all pigment can be removed. Expending a few days to familiarize and be comfortable with the design before deciding on a tattoo design will be well worth time.
When deciding on a tattoo design for you, for the first time, you should take the advice of most tattoo artists and start with a small simple piece. This is beneficial in several ways.
A small tattoo design will take only about quarter of an hour to complete. As such you will be able learn whether you can tolerate the pain involved without stopping half way through with ugly results. You can probably get through a small design even if you find it painful.
A small design can be made part of a larger design later. This is important because most people tend to get additional tattoos once the first one is successful. As such when deciding on a tattoo design for you, make sure you select a small one that can harmonize with possible future ones. Not selecting such a design will lead to a mismatched group of tattoos.
You will have a wide selection to choose from when deciding on the tattoo design for you. Before looking through the designs available with the artist, you can do some research on your own. There are many websites devoted to tattoos on the Internet. You can learn the history and meaning of the designs on such sites. Remember most tattoo designs have various symbolic meanings attached to them that a novice and even some artists will not know about. So some grounding on history and symbolism of tattoo design will help you to avoid unnecessary embarrassments when deciding the tattoo design for your skin.
You can also allow the artist to express their creativity to the full by selecting an original design when deciding on the tattoo design for you. If you do so, select a well reputed artist and give him full artistic control to get the best results.
Another aspect you should pay attention to when deciding on a tattoo design for your skin is whether you want to incorporate various colors or whether you want to stick to monochrome. This is of course a matter of personal taste and tough you should also consider you skin color. If you select a multi colored design, make sure that the tattoo parlor has the right equipment to execute it correctly.
By taking your time and paying attention to the details, you will be able to decide on the tattoo design that will suit you for a life time.
Tattoo Removal Techniques
There are many different tattoo removal techniques and all have advantages as well as disadvantages. The best tattoo removal techniques can vary according to the person and tattoo and it is necessary for anyone wanting to remove a tattoo to do research on the subject and decide on which of the tattoo removal techniques is most suitable for their personal situation. The removal techniques that are available today are laser treatment, abrasion, scarification, camouflaging and surgery.
Laser treatment is one of the most common tattoo removal techniques and although it is popular and is effective, there are also side effects that can be considered drawbacks. Although it can lighten tattoos to a point where they are virtually invisible, it is probable that several expensive sessions will be necessary in order to achieve the desired effect. Of the tattoo removal techniques it is also the only method that causes hypo pigmentation, or a lightening of the skin area surrounding the tattoo. If the exact pigments used in the tattoo ink are known, then the laser treatment is successful, but more than likely this information will not be obtainable. This is because the ingredients for the ink are not given on the bottles and considered a trade secret. It should be a consideration though, that lasers as tattoo removal techniques can also cause the ink to release allergens which will result in an allergic reaction.
Abrasion is another of the tattoo removal techniques and it removes the tattoo by scraping away the skin layers with the ink. There are more than one abrasive tattoo removal techniques, but the variation using a salt solution to remove the pigments and not have to scrape as deep. It is only rarely used and all abrasive techniques leave behind a scar. Some scars may not be very noticeable, but others can be deep and obvious to see. Scarification is the removal of a tattoo with an acid solution and this is a harsh method that will always leave behind a scar.
Camouflaging does not completely remove the tattoo, but instead it covers up something that should not be seen. This is not the right choice of tattoo removal techniques for someone wanting to completely remove a tattoo. The last of the tattoo removal techniques is also the most extreme and this would be surgery. There are several surgical tattoo removal techniques, but most common is a balloon inserted under the skin which expands the tissues and then the scar can be removed. The tissue expansion is important to reduce scarring during these tattoo removal techniques to a minimum, although a scar is unavoidable. For large tattoos you will also have to undergo many smaller surgeries in order to completely remove the tattoo.
There are no perfect tattoo removal techniques since every tattoo and skin is unique. The tattoo removal techniques should be carefully chosen and specialists should be consulted for advice before beginning the removal. It is best to consider all tattoo removal techniques and after collecting enough information then decide what is best for your case.
http://www.tattooingtips.com/tattoos-removal-options.html
In this site you will find pages about different topics pertaining to body art and tattooing. We take great pride in presenting you step by step guide to tattoo to make it a memorable experience throughout your life. This comprehensive guide will show you all the tricks and tips on how to get yourself tattooed. What you will learn:
1- Guidelines for safe tattooing
2- Caring for your new Tattoo
3- Tattooing Aftercare and Healing Instructions
4- Tattoo Removal Methods and Techniques
5- Potential Health Risks, Infections and Complications
6- Body Piercing
Cost of Getting a Tattoo
- Tattoo: History
- Before You Get Tattooed
- Tattoo Healing and Aftercare
- Choosing the Right Tattoo Design
- Tattoo Removal Techniques
Cost of Getting a Tattoo
Although the cost of tattoos can end up being quite high, there are still many ways to save and yet still in the end have just the tattoo you were looking for. Since there are many steps involved before the tattoo is actually finished, there are many things that can be done differently in order to reduce the cost of tattoos. By taking all factors into consideration it is possible to save a substantial amount of money and the cost of tattoos can become affordable for anyone.
The first thing to consider before deciding on a tattoo shop is if they charge by the piece being done or by the hour. No matter how the price is determined, the cost of tattoos will not be under $40 since this is the standard minimum fee charged regardless of tattoo size and number of colors. Keep in mind that the cost of tattoos done by an artist that charges by the hour is normally not as negotiable as that of one that charges a set price for the complete job. The cost of tattoos that require a lot of colors and are large in size will be more expensive if they have to be paid for by the hour and in this case to handle a fair price for the complete tattoo will be more advantageous. The cost of tattoos can be substantially reduced in this case and one price is better than paying anywhere from $80 to $100 for each hour, especially since such colorful and elaborate tattoos require many hours or even sessions to complete. The pricing is for that reason the most important variable when reducing the cost of tattoos.
Another way to reduce the cost of tattoos is to think about where it should be placed on your body. This is a major factor, because some body parts are more difficult to tattoo than others and also more expensive. For example, a tattoo placed on the shoulder is quite easy to do whereas a tattoo on the lower part of the back is very difficult. For this reason the same tattoo done on the shoulder will be significantly cheaper than if done on the lower back. Although money can be saved, the place is also of great importance since the tattoo will be a permanent part of the body and the cost of tattoos should not be based on which body part is the cheapest to tattoo. The cost of tattoos on sensitive body parts will always be expensive and each artist will tend to spontaneously think of a price when asked about this kind of job.
The cost of tattoos is also partially based on the design being used. Exclusively created designs are more expensive than the common ones. By bringing your own design template with you it is possible to negotiate a better price, because the design is from you and not from the tattoo artist. Designs can be found on the internet and although some are for free, the more exquisite ones also cost money so it has to be carefully planned if this method is to reduce the cost of tattoos.
By taking these tips into consideration it will be possible to reduce the cost of tattoos. The key is to do research on your own before going to local tattoo shops and then to ask around about the cost of tattoos. Once the best prices have been located then these tips can be put into use and may just get you a larger, more colorful tattoo for the price of a small and plain one. The cost of tattoos can always be reduced and the amount saved depends on how prepared you are.
Tattoo: History
Do you want to look different from the crowd? Does tattooing fascinate you? What's the safest mode to get a tattoo? Knowing all these facts can help in deciding whether an idea to get a tattoo is good for you. The history of tattoos commenced over 5000 years ago. A remarkable effort in the discovery of tattooing in the Bronze Age was that when in 1991, a frozen body of five thousand year old tattooed man was found on a mountain between Austria and Italy. The body was bearing almost 57 tattoos and positions of the tattoos suggest that they were applied for therapeutic reasons.
The history of tattoos starts from Egypt during the time of the construction of its great pyramids. When the Egyptians empire expanded, the art of tattooing started spreading as well. The Greeks started using tattoos for communication among spies. Markings on the body identified the spies and represented their rank. But in Rome the criminals and slaves were marked. So the practice of tattooing spread everywhere in the world. This practice is still carried on today. Some use tattoos in showing social status while others use it as a mark of cultural tradition.
In today’s era the art of tattooing is very popular among the youngsters. The property of the outlaws, sailors and bikers gang is now a fashionable art of body decoration for many people. Now a lot of marks are used by different people to express themselves with their tattoos. The common marks include the anchors, birth signs, skulls, school or organization’ s emblems, battleships, love marks and many more. A tattoo is a punctured wound that is made deep into the skin by filling the ink. It is a dermal pigmentation or a mark which is generally made by inserting decorative pigment into the skin. Tattoos are a type of decorative body alterations that are used for identification, representation, branding and expression.
Tattoos can be done manually by using a needle to puncture the skin or by tattoo machines which uses a tube and a needle system. Needles are used to inject the ink into the deeper layer of skin called dermis and thus make a tattoo permanent. Before putting tattoos a tattoo artist should know how deep to drive the needle into your skin, as going too deep can cause bleeding and intense pain. Many things have to be taken care before getting a tattoo safely on your skin. The major thing to be considered is proper hygiene. A body modification artist is required to wash his or her hands before starting tattooing a client. The use of disposable gloves is also mandatory to avoid cross contamination. Even the equipment’s are autoclaved with an approved disinfectant before using them in the task of tattooing such as counter tops, machines, and furniture.
At last it is important to get a tattoo on your body with ultimate safety so that there is no chance of skin disruption or harm. It is always a fun to have tattoos on the body as they really make a unique mark on personal identity.
Before You Get Tattooed
Before you get tattooed you should be aware of all the steps that need to be taken prior to the tattooing process. Although the idea to get yourself a tattoo sometimes crops up on the spur of the moment, it is not a good idea to just go ahead and choose one that you like and have the artist do it. Before you get tattooed it should be clear that it would be with you for a lifetime, unless you undergo a painful and expensive removal process. Not only is the fact important that a tattoo is permanent, but also give sterility an equal priority. Before you get tattooed you should know about the health aspects and make sure you find a professional artist that will not endanger you in any way.
Before you get tattooed you should be sure of the design. That means that before you get tattooed you should look at the patterns different professionals have and get a rough idea of what you want. It is also worth looking through Internet sites, because many websites have tattoo patterns that can be purchased and printed. Even if you have to pay some money for the perfect design, it is still worth doing so before you get tattooed with a picture you don’t like. Although the design is important, the inks to be used should also be proofed before you get tattooed, because some colors are of high quality and are brilliant whereas others are dull, fade and generally do not look good.
Before you get tattooed you should also make sure that the tattoo artist knows about sterility and uses fresh ink and needles. If used needles are used, there is a chance of a disease being transferred or maybe even some kind of skin reaction. The best thing to do before you get tattooed is to talk to several professional tattoo artists and ask about their experience in the tattoo industry. Personally meeting the artist also leaves an impression of whether or not the artist is clean and gives importance to hygiene or whether they are dirty and sloppy. Before you get tattooed, just glance through the artist’s portfolio, something every professional will have and here you can see how good their tattoos look like and if they are really good or not.
Before you get tattooed make sure that you are relaxed and are capable of staying still for awhile. If you move a lot, it will waste your time and make it hard for the tattoo artist to do a good job. Another thing to think of before you get tattooed is of the after care. Once a tattoo is done, you will have to take care of your tattoo by keeping it clean and also to prevent it drying up.
Before you get tattooed there is much to learn and keep in mind when looking around. Being unsure of the process before you get tattooed may result in a mistake that will be regretted for a long time to come.
Tattoo Healing and Aftercare
Getting a tattoo is hard enough, but the tattoo healing and after care is another process that is necessary to do carefully. Not only is tattoo healing and after care good for your skin and well being, but also for the tattoo itself. This is because the tattoo healing and after care is decisive on how the tattoo will permanently look.
The tattoo healing and after care time period is usually around a month long. During this time it is especially important to take proper care of the new tattoo. During the first phase of tattoo healing and after care, which takes place for the first four or five days after the tattoo is done, you may experience pain, soreness, swelling, irritation and even redness of the skin. This is a very important phase for the tattoo healing and after care and of utmost importance to keep the tattoo completely clean. In fact you will have to clean it with mild soap and water at least five times a day. After cleaning you will have to gently pat the area dry and this is necessary to complete the tattoo healing and after care. Using an antibiotic cream during this part of the tattoo healing and after care time can help reduce infections and relieve soreness.
The second phase is also the final stage and this is the longer period of tattoo healing and after care. This phase of the tattoo healing and after care lasts three or four weeks and it also influences just how your tattoo will look for the rest of your life. During this stage of the tattoo healing and after care process that tattoo has a tendency to get dry. A dried out tattoo will not look good and for this reason you will need moisturizers. Keeping a tattoo area moist will also prevent or reduce scabbing and infections, another aspect of tattoo healing and after care that should not be overlooked. Scabbing can produce scars on the tattoo which will make it unattractive from the start. Sunlight is also bad for the tattoo and also has to be avoided during the tattoo healing and after care time. If you live in a sunny area or have a tattoo done while on vacation, consider this fact and it will make taking care of the tattoo easier.
For the tattoo healing and after care it is important to use a special cream product. Any moisturizing cream should meet certain requirements, such as no artificial colors or fragrances. There are many tattoo healing and after care products available so it is best to ask the professional artist about what is best and let them also demonstrate how to do everything. A cream should at any rate contain the vitamins A and C to reduce the redness and irritation during the tattoo healing and after care time.
Tattoo healing and after care is very important and should not be neglected. It greatly affects the overall tattoo look and by taking time to learn about tattoo healing and after care you will have the best possible results.
Choosing the Right Tattoo Design
Deciding on a tattoo design for your body should not be a mere impulsive decision. You need to put lot of thought into it to make that decision a success. Otherwise you will regret your tattoo selection for years to come.
First question you should ask yourself, before deciding on a tattoo design for your skin, is whether the selected tattoo design is compatible with the image you want to project to the world. In doing so you should remember that tattoo will remain in your skin for years to come. Do you want to have that tattoo design on your skin ten, twenty, or thirty, years into the future? Removing tattoo is difficult and expensive and not all pigment can be removed. Expending a few days to familiarize and be comfortable with the design before deciding on a tattoo design will be well worth time.
When deciding on a tattoo design for you, for the first time, you should take the advice of most tattoo artists and start with a small simple piece. This is beneficial in several ways.
A small tattoo design will take only about quarter of an hour to complete. As such you will be able learn whether you can tolerate the pain involved without stopping half way through with ugly results. You can probably get through a small design even if you find it painful.
A small design can be made part of a larger design later. This is important because most people tend to get additional tattoos once the first one is successful. As such when deciding on a tattoo design for you, make sure you select a small one that can harmonize with possible future ones. Not selecting such a design will lead to a mismatched group of tattoos.
You will have a wide selection to choose from when deciding on the tattoo design for you. Before looking through the designs available with the artist, you can do some research on your own. There are many websites devoted to tattoos on the Internet. You can learn the history and meaning of the designs on such sites. Remember most tattoo designs have various symbolic meanings attached to them that a novice and even some artists will not know about. So some grounding on history and symbolism of tattoo design will help you to avoid unnecessary embarrassments when deciding the tattoo design for your skin.
You can also allow the artist to express their creativity to the full by selecting an original design when deciding on the tattoo design for you. If you do so, select a well reputed artist and give him full artistic control to get the best results.
Another aspect you should pay attention to when deciding on a tattoo design for your skin is whether you want to incorporate various colors or whether you want to stick to monochrome. This is of course a matter of personal taste and tough you should also consider you skin color. If you select a multi colored design, make sure that the tattoo parlor has the right equipment to execute it correctly.
By taking your time and paying attention to the details, you will be able to decide on the tattoo design that will suit you for a life time.
Tattoo Removal Techniques
There are many different tattoo removal techniques and all have advantages as well as disadvantages. The best tattoo removal techniques can vary according to the person and tattoo and it is necessary for anyone wanting to remove a tattoo to do research on the subject and decide on which of the tattoo removal techniques is most suitable for their personal situation. The removal techniques that are available today are laser treatment, abrasion, scarification, camouflaging and surgery.
Laser treatment is one of the most common tattoo removal techniques and although it is popular and is effective, there are also side effects that can be considered drawbacks. Although it can lighten tattoos to a point where they are virtually invisible, it is probable that several expensive sessions will be necessary in order to achieve the desired effect. Of the tattoo removal techniques it is also the only method that causes hypo pigmentation, or a lightening of the skin area surrounding the tattoo. If the exact pigments used in the tattoo ink are known, then the laser treatment is successful, but more than likely this information will not be obtainable. This is because the ingredients for the ink are not given on the bottles and considered a trade secret. It should be a consideration though, that lasers as tattoo removal techniques can also cause the ink to release allergens which will result in an allergic reaction.
Abrasion is another of the tattoo removal techniques and it removes the tattoo by scraping away the skin layers with the ink. There are more than one abrasive tattoo removal techniques, but the variation using a salt solution to remove the pigments and not have to scrape as deep. It is only rarely used and all abrasive techniques leave behind a scar. Some scars may not be very noticeable, but others can be deep and obvious to see. Scarification is the removal of a tattoo with an acid solution and this is a harsh method that will always leave behind a scar.
Camouflaging does not completely remove the tattoo, but instead it covers up something that should not be seen. This is not the right choice of tattoo removal techniques for someone wanting to completely remove a tattoo. The last of the tattoo removal techniques is also the most extreme and this would be surgery. There are several surgical tattoo removal techniques, but most common is a balloon inserted under the skin which expands the tissues and then the scar can be removed. The tissue expansion is important to reduce scarring during these tattoo removal techniques to a minimum, although a scar is unavoidable. For large tattoos you will also have to undergo many smaller surgeries in order to completely remove the tattoo.
There are no perfect tattoo removal techniques since every tattoo and skin is unique. The tattoo removal techniques should be carefully chosen and specialists should be consulted for advice before beginning the removal. It is best to consider all tattoo removal techniques and after collecting enough information then decide what is best for your case.
http://www.tattooingtips.com/tattoos-removal-options.html
Research: My First Essay
Body Art
http://www.villanova.edu/studentlife/healthandwellness/resources.htm?page=bodyart_piercing.htm
What is body art?
Body art is one of the earliest forms of artistic expression know to humankind. It has been used to indicate status, religious devotion, desired protection against evil and disease, and much more.
Today, people express many different reasons for getting various forms of body art. Some of them are a means of personal expression, while others continue to decorate their bodies as a means of commemorating an important event/time in their lives (i.e., 21st birthday).
What are the different styles of body art?
- Tattoo - procedure of permanently marking the skin with ink or dye; tatau is the Polynesian word for "to strike" or "to mark."
- Branding/ Scarification - procedure in which skin is seared with a hot iron or cut with a scalpel or other sharp object to produce a raised design; the darker the skin, the better the keloid.
- Body Paint is a temporary form of body art, which includes Mehndi. Mehndi is the Indian tradition of decorating a woman's hands and feet with henna dye, originally done to celebrate her wedding. The patterns are very intricate and usually take several hours to complete. The dye lasts from 10 days to six weeks. The colour can vary from deep brown to reddish brown to orange, depending on the body's chemical makeup.
- Piercing - procedure in which, a sharp instruments is passed through a fold of skin or part of the body.
- Permanent Makeup is a form of tattooing. This makeup is most commonly applied to eyebrows, upper and lower eyelids and lips. It can last anywhere from four to six years.
- Aesthetic Dentistry can include gold/silver/porcelain caps, having a hole drilled into a tooth and implanting a jewel into the hole, and filing teeth to a point to create the illusion of a fang.
- Body Play or Shaping is the most severe form of body art. It includes body suspension, waist/corset training, implanting foreign objects under the skin, e.g., inserting metal spikes into the skull or inserting marbles under the skin.
Things to think about when getting a tattoo or a piercing
- I have no doubts about getting a tattoo or a piercing
- I think I will like the tattoo design in 10 years
- I consider tattoos to be permanent
- I want a tattoo for my own reasons
- I have thought about the design, location and effects it may have on others.
- I have made the decision without the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- I fully understand the procedure.
Questions to ask the artist
1. Is the studio an established business? Have you spoken with previous customers? How long has the business been in operation?
2. What training does the artist have? Does the artist have any sort of formal training on how to maintain a clean and sterile environment? Does the artist have any background in the work that they are doing? Has the artist participated in an apprenticeship program?
3. How much professional experience does the artist have?
4. Is the piercing done in a separate room? Every good studio should have 5 separate areas:
- counter
- waiting room
- piercing room(s)
- bathroom
- sterilisation room
5. Are new containers of ink used with each tattoo? The artist should not be dipping into a large container of ink or dye with each customer.
6. What additional training does the artist have? (i.e., first aid training)
7. Does the artist use an autoclave to clean equipment? This is the MOST important thing you need to find out when you visit a studio. If they do not have an autoclave, RUN AWAY! "Dry heat" is not considered an appropriate sterilisation technique for equipment used to tattoo or pierce. A spore test is the only way to know that the autoclave is working properly. If they do not run regular spore tests, do not let them tattoo or pierce you!
8. Are sterile needles used every time? Does the studio sterilise needles every time? Make sure you see the artist place the used needles in a "sharps" container. NEVER allow an artist to use a needle on you that was soaked in liquid. All needles should be in individual packages and should be opened while you are present.
9. Are you comfortable with the artist? Follow your instincts here. If you are uncomfortable in any way, do not feel obligated to seek services at the particular studio. If the studio seems more interested in your money than in your health, it is a sure sign that the studio is not the best place for you!
10. Are latex gloves used?
11. Does the artist use appropriate jewellery? There are many different types of piercing so there should be a variety of jewellery. When referring to the size of jewellery there are two measurements. One is the width of the ring or length of the bar called the "diameter" of the jewellery. The other is the thickness of the jewellery, which is the "gauge." As a general rule, jewellery no thinner than 14 gauge should be used below the neck. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the jewellery.
12. Do they have an aftercare sheet that is up-to-date on industry standards? Read this sheet BEFORE getting a piercing or tattoo. If it tells you to clean your piercing or tattoo with an ointment or hydrogen peroxide, the studio is clearly not keeping up with industry standards.
13. Does the studio have a license to operate? Many cities and states do require that a studio have a license. In most cases the license means that the studio meets minimum requirements and has passed an inspection. To find if you area has established standards and inspections, call your local health department. If the studio is illegally unlicensed, do take the time to report them.
14. Is the studio recognised by the APP (Association of Professional Pierces)? All APP pierces have a certificate that should be hanging on the studio wall. The certificate has an expiration date on it; make sure it is current. For a list of APP pierces you can check out www.safepiercing.org or call 1-888-515-4APP.
15. Does the artist have a portfolio of his/her work?
Did You Know: Only certain metals are safe for jewellery.
- 14 or 18 karat solid gold
- titanium
- niobium
- platinum
- 316L surgical implant grade stainless steel
- Jewellery from other metals, i.e., nickel, may increase your risk for allergic reaction or infection.
What are the health risks associated with body art?
Body piercing may cause staph infections and contact dermatitis, which is picked up from the nickel composition of the piercing jewellery. Dermatitis is an allergic reaction, which does not allow the pierced area to heal properly causing the skin to fester, swell, and become sore. Pull through injuries are also common with body piercing and may require surgery, i.e., eyebrow pull-through injury.
A piercing in a location such as the tongue involves additional health issues including hygiene. Teeth may be easily cracked, chipped or knocked out with the added weight of a spike or stud.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), "the application of tattoos may present the risk of acquiring a bacterial or viral infection and other complications including allergic reactions to inks and dyes."
People do not realise that constantly touching and playing with a new piercing or a healing tattoo may cause bacteria to develop, which can lead to infection.
Some tattooists use commercially packaged, premixed colours made from plastic-based pigments, which may also cause allergic reactions. The metallic salts in certain tattoo inks and dyes can cause a slight irritation in some people.
Keep in mind... it can hurt! Your body's natural reaction is to reject a foreign object. Be aware of your threshold for pain because you may experience pain or discomfort during a procedure, and/or the recovery process.
How long will it take to heal?
Depending on the type of procedure and where it is located, healing time varies. Below are examples of common piercing and their estimated healing times.
Cheek: 2 to 4 months
Ear Cartilage: 2 months to 1 year
Eyebrow: 2 months to 1 year
Labret: 6 weeks to 2 months
Navel: 6 months to 2 years
Nipple: 2 to 6 months
Nostril: 2 months to 1 year
Tongue: 1 month to 6 weeks
Tattoos:
Depending on the size of the piece, you need to leave the bandage on the tattoo for anywhere from four hours to overnight. Once the bandage is open to germs, the tattoo area must be cleaned regularly with cold water. Great care and caution must be taken in caring for a tattoo. Only fingertips may be used to wash the area, as any removal of skin or scabs will pull the ink out of the design.
What are the reasons why someone would want to remove a piercing or tattoo?
- Regret. Many tattoo and piercing studios offer walk-in appointments which encourages more "spur of the moment" decisions rather than a more comprehensive, thought-out process.
- Starting a professional job. Many places of employment discourage their employees from having visible tattoos or piercing. There are many stories of people who chose to have a tattoo or piercing in a place that compromises their ability to get a job or maintain a job because of a company's policies or expectations of their employees.
- Romance ends. NEVER put someone's name on your body...it's just not good practice!
- Bad Workmanship. The artists who provide bad work are called "scratchers" in the field. Poor placement, design and painful effects of a tattooing or piercing can result in dissatisfaction with the outcome.
- Change in lifestyle. As you age, you may become bored with the tattoo or piercing OR you may become more conservative as you start a family or achieve professional positions in the workplace OR your physical appearance changes in a way that changes the appeal of having a tattoo or piercing.
- Allergic reaction. Coloring and tattoo pigments may create a physical or chemical reaction that prevents someone from being able to maintain the tattoo.
Are there any issues involved with removing a piercing?
Most importantly, if a person is considering removing a piercing, he/she should be sure that the pierced area is not infected. If infected, as soon as the piercing begins to close, the infection spreads throughout the body. It is SO important to visit a health care professional if you are unsure of whether or not you have an infection, so that you can be treated for the infection before removing the piercing. Nostril piercing, in particular, can be very dangerous when infected.
Also, when a piercing is removed, a keloid may form over the area in which the skin was pierced. The keloid may be very small and unnoticeable. However, in certain areas, the keloid may draw more attention and may serve as a permanent reminder of the piercing. For example, many people who allow eyebrow or nostril piercing to close will have a keloid form in its place. So, you need to consider where your piercing is going to be, the potential for infection, and what the consequences could be upon removal.
How is a tattoo removed?
Tattoos can be removed in a number of ways, most of which are painful and/or costly. When considering a tattoo it is important that the person considers the tattoo to be permanent, as the process of removal can be quite an experience!
Below are the methods of tattoo removal being used today:
- Laser removal. Most expensive of the three procedures. Can take multiple sessions to remove the tattoo in part or in its entirety. Laser removal procedures do not guarantee to completely rid the body of the tattoo. Laser treatment carries a minor amount of pain in the process. Painful recovery can occur.
- Dermabrasion. Process in which the tattoo is "cut out" of the skin. It is a painful procedure.
- Salabrasion. Process in which tattoo is "scraped off" the skin using a rubbing salt and rock. It is a painful procedure.
What are the laws and regulations governing body art practices?
There are no federal laws concerning any of the procedures and practices associated with body art. Some states have absolutely no laws regarding body art and safe procedures, while others only regulate according to age, making it against the law to tattoo, pierce or brand anyone under the age of 18 without parental consent. Tattooing has been outlawed in Connecticut, Florida, Kansas, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Vermont and Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is important that you contact your local health department to find more information regarding the regulations in your state. For Pennsylvania, you may visit www.health.state.pa.us.
http://www.villanova.edu/studentlife/healthandwellness/resources.htm?page=bodyart_piercing.htm
What is body art?
Body art is one of the earliest forms of artistic expression know to humankind. It has been used to indicate status, religious devotion, desired protection against evil and disease, and much more.
Today, people express many different reasons for getting various forms of body art. Some of them are a means of personal expression, while others continue to decorate their bodies as a means of commemorating an important event/time in their lives (i.e., 21st birthday).
What are the different styles of body art?
- Tattoo - procedure of permanently marking the skin with ink or dye; tatau is the Polynesian word for "to strike" or "to mark."
- Branding/ Scarification - procedure in which skin is seared with a hot iron or cut with a scalpel or other sharp object to produce a raised design; the darker the skin, the better the keloid.
- Body Paint is a temporary form of body art, which includes Mehndi. Mehndi is the Indian tradition of decorating a woman's hands and feet with henna dye, originally done to celebrate her wedding. The patterns are very intricate and usually take several hours to complete. The dye lasts from 10 days to six weeks. The colour can vary from deep brown to reddish brown to orange, depending on the body's chemical makeup.
- Piercing - procedure in which, a sharp instruments is passed through a fold of skin or part of the body.
- Permanent Makeup is a form of tattooing. This makeup is most commonly applied to eyebrows, upper and lower eyelids and lips. It can last anywhere from four to six years.
- Aesthetic Dentistry can include gold/silver/porcelain caps, having a hole drilled into a tooth and implanting a jewel into the hole, and filing teeth to a point to create the illusion of a fang.
- Body Play or Shaping is the most severe form of body art. It includes body suspension, waist/corset training, implanting foreign objects under the skin, e.g., inserting metal spikes into the skull or inserting marbles under the skin.
Things to think about when getting a tattoo or a piercing
- I have no doubts about getting a tattoo or a piercing
- I think I will like the tattoo design in 10 years
- I consider tattoos to be permanent
- I want a tattoo for my own reasons
- I have thought about the design, location and effects it may have on others.
- I have made the decision without the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- I fully understand the procedure.
Questions to ask the artist
1. Is the studio an established business? Have you spoken with previous customers? How long has the business been in operation?
2. What training does the artist have? Does the artist have any sort of formal training on how to maintain a clean and sterile environment? Does the artist have any background in the work that they are doing? Has the artist participated in an apprenticeship program?
3. How much professional experience does the artist have?
4. Is the piercing done in a separate room? Every good studio should have 5 separate areas:
- counter
- waiting room
- piercing room(s)
- bathroom
- sterilisation room
5. Are new containers of ink used with each tattoo? The artist should not be dipping into a large container of ink or dye with each customer.
6. What additional training does the artist have? (i.e., first aid training)
7. Does the artist use an autoclave to clean equipment? This is the MOST important thing you need to find out when you visit a studio. If they do not have an autoclave, RUN AWAY! "Dry heat" is not considered an appropriate sterilisation technique for equipment used to tattoo or pierce. A spore test is the only way to know that the autoclave is working properly. If they do not run regular spore tests, do not let them tattoo or pierce you!
8. Are sterile needles used every time? Does the studio sterilise needles every time? Make sure you see the artist place the used needles in a "sharps" container. NEVER allow an artist to use a needle on you that was soaked in liquid. All needles should be in individual packages and should be opened while you are present.
9. Are you comfortable with the artist? Follow your instincts here. If you are uncomfortable in any way, do not feel obligated to seek services at the particular studio. If the studio seems more interested in your money than in your health, it is a sure sign that the studio is not the best place for you!
10. Are latex gloves used?
11. Does the artist use appropriate jewellery? There are many different types of piercing so there should be a variety of jewellery. When referring to the size of jewellery there are two measurements. One is the width of the ring or length of the bar called the "diameter" of the jewellery. The other is the thickness of the jewellery, which is the "gauge." As a general rule, jewellery no thinner than 14 gauge should be used below the neck. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the jewellery.
12. Do they have an aftercare sheet that is up-to-date on industry standards? Read this sheet BEFORE getting a piercing or tattoo. If it tells you to clean your piercing or tattoo with an ointment or hydrogen peroxide, the studio is clearly not keeping up with industry standards.
13. Does the studio have a license to operate? Many cities and states do require that a studio have a license. In most cases the license means that the studio meets minimum requirements and has passed an inspection. To find if you area has established standards and inspections, call your local health department. If the studio is illegally unlicensed, do take the time to report them.
14. Is the studio recognised by the APP (Association of Professional Pierces)? All APP pierces have a certificate that should be hanging on the studio wall. The certificate has an expiration date on it; make sure it is current. For a list of APP pierces you can check out www.safepiercing.org or call 1-888-515-4APP.
15. Does the artist have a portfolio of his/her work?
Did You Know: Only certain metals are safe for jewellery.
- 14 or 18 karat solid gold
- titanium
- niobium
- platinum
- 316L surgical implant grade stainless steel
- Jewellery from other metals, i.e., nickel, may increase your risk for allergic reaction or infection.
What are the health risks associated with body art?
Body piercing may cause staph infections and contact dermatitis, which is picked up from the nickel composition of the piercing jewellery. Dermatitis is an allergic reaction, which does not allow the pierced area to heal properly causing the skin to fester, swell, and become sore. Pull through injuries are also common with body piercing and may require surgery, i.e., eyebrow pull-through injury.
A piercing in a location such as the tongue involves additional health issues including hygiene. Teeth may be easily cracked, chipped or knocked out with the added weight of a spike or stud.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), "the application of tattoos may present the risk of acquiring a bacterial or viral infection and other complications including allergic reactions to inks and dyes."
People do not realise that constantly touching and playing with a new piercing or a healing tattoo may cause bacteria to develop, which can lead to infection.
Some tattooists use commercially packaged, premixed colours made from plastic-based pigments, which may also cause allergic reactions. The metallic salts in certain tattoo inks and dyes can cause a slight irritation in some people.
Keep in mind... it can hurt! Your body's natural reaction is to reject a foreign object. Be aware of your threshold for pain because you may experience pain or discomfort during a procedure, and/or the recovery process.
How long will it take to heal?
Depending on the type of procedure and where it is located, healing time varies. Below are examples of common piercing and their estimated healing times.
Cheek: 2 to 4 months
Ear Cartilage: 2 months to 1 year
Eyebrow: 2 months to 1 year
Labret: 6 weeks to 2 months
Navel: 6 months to 2 years
Nipple: 2 to 6 months
Nostril: 2 months to 1 year
Tongue: 1 month to 6 weeks
Tattoos:
Depending on the size of the piece, you need to leave the bandage on the tattoo for anywhere from four hours to overnight. Once the bandage is open to germs, the tattoo area must be cleaned regularly with cold water. Great care and caution must be taken in caring for a tattoo. Only fingertips may be used to wash the area, as any removal of skin or scabs will pull the ink out of the design.
What are the reasons why someone would want to remove a piercing or tattoo?
- Regret. Many tattoo and piercing studios offer walk-in appointments which encourages more "spur of the moment" decisions rather than a more comprehensive, thought-out process.
- Starting a professional job. Many places of employment discourage their employees from having visible tattoos or piercing. There are many stories of people who chose to have a tattoo or piercing in a place that compromises their ability to get a job or maintain a job because of a company's policies or expectations of their employees.
- Romance ends. NEVER put someone's name on your body...it's just not good practice!
- Bad Workmanship. The artists who provide bad work are called "scratchers" in the field. Poor placement, design and painful effects of a tattooing or piercing can result in dissatisfaction with the outcome.
- Change in lifestyle. As you age, you may become bored with the tattoo or piercing OR you may become more conservative as you start a family or achieve professional positions in the workplace OR your physical appearance changes in a way that changes the appeal of having a tattoo or piercing.
- Allergic reaction. Coloring and tattoo pigments may create a physical or chemical reaction that prevents someone from being able to maintain the tattoo.
Are there any issues involved with removing a piercing?
Most importantly, if a person is considering removing a piercing, he/she should be sure that the pierced area is not infected. If infected, as soon as the piercing begins to close, the infection spreads throughout the body. It is SO important to visit a health care professional if you are unsure of whether or not you have an infection, so that you can be treated for the infection before removing the piercing. Nostril piercing, in particular, can be very dangerous when infected.
Also, when a piercing is removed, a keloid may form over the area in which the skin was pierced. The keloid may be very small and unnoticeable. However, in certain areas, the keloid may draw more attention and may serve as a permanent reminder of the piercing. For example, many people who allow eyebrow or nostril piercing to close will have a keloid form in its place. So, you need to consider where your piercing is going to be, the potential for infection, and what the consequences could be upon removal.
How is a tattoo removed?
Tattoos can be removed in a number of ways, most of which are painful and/or costly. When considering a tattoo it is important that the person considers the tattoo to be permanent, as the process of removal can be quite an experience!
Below are the methods of tattoo removal being used today:
- Laser removal. Most expensive of the three procedures. Can take multiple sessions to remove the tattoo in part or in its entirety. Laser removal procedures do not guarantee to completely rid the body of the tattoo. Laser treatment carries a minor amount of pain in the process. Painful recovery can occur.
- Dermabrasion. Process in which the tattoo is "cut out" of the skin. It is a painful procedure.
- Salabrasion. Process in which tattoo is "scraped off" the skin using a rubbing salt and rock. It is a painful procedure.
What are the laws and regulations governing body art practices?
There are no federal laws concerning any of the procedures and practices associated with body art. Some states have absolutely no laws regarding body art and safe procedures, while others only regulate according to age, making it against the law to tattoo, pierce or brand anyone under the age of 18 without parental consent. Tattooing has been outlawed in Connecticut, Florida, Kansas, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Vermont and Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is important that you contact your local health department to find more information regarding the regulations in your state. For Pennsylvania, you may visit www.health.state.pa.us.
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