College Essay on the Art of Tattoos
As far as time goes, tattoos have been seen on both males and females. It is a
way to embellish, improve and alter the appearance of their skin. Whilst some of
the tattoos represent personal freedom and individuality, most symbolize a
person’s attachment to a local group; express religious, magical or spiritual
beliefs. In the recent years, the art of tattooing has been revived to a great
extent. It has known more popularity and acceptance than ever before. People in
almost all social standings seek the best tattoo artists nowadays. Tattooists
are now being placed in the category of “fine artists”, demanding a respect not
known to them for over 100 years. Tattooists today combine traditional ways with
their new personal styles resulting in distinctive and extraordinary works of
body art. New tattooing inks that have been introduced have taken tattooing to a
new echelon. Today, tattoos are available in all shapes and sizes, and one can
be spotted almost anywhere on someone's body. There are permanent cosmetic
studios that tattoo on eyebrows, eyeliner and lip liner for permanent makeup.
History
The word ‘tattoo’ means ‘to mark’ and comes from the Tahitian word tattau. James
Cook first mentioned this in his 1769 expedition records. Tattoos were
considered exotic in Europe and the U.S. and tattooed Indians and Polynesians,
in the 18th and 19th centuries, drew crowds of bewildered audiences at circuses.
It is believed by some scientists that certain marks found on the skin of a
mummified human body, from about 3300 B.C. may be tattoos. Incase these are
proven to be true, they will represent the earliest known existence of the
practice. Tattoos have been found on Egyptian and Nubian mummies that date from
2000 B.C., and some classical authors believe that Greeks, ancient Germans,
Gauls, Thracians and ancient Britons practiced the art. The Europeans
rediscovered tattooing when their exploration landed them amongst the
Polynesians and American Indians. .... .... ....
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