The tattoo industry, often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, is a vibrant world of artistry and professionalism that spans various cultures and demographics. In this article, we’ll dispel some of the most pervasive myths about tattooing and tattoo artists. From challenging the notion that tattoo artists lack professionalism to debunking stereotypes about who gets tattoos, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of this dynamic industry. As we explore these myths, we’ll uncover the truth about the regulations, artistic integrity, and everyday realities of tattoo shops, offering a fresh perspective on an ancient yet ever-evolving form of expression.
Myth 1: Tattoo Artists Aren’t Professional
Tattooing is a highly skilled profession that requires extensive training, practice, and adherence to health and safety standards. Professional tattoo artists are knowledgeable about skin anatomy, sterilization techniques, and artistic design principles.
Myth 2: The Tattoo Industry is Unregulated
This common misconception could not be further from the truth. The tattoo industry is governed by stringent regulations that differ by region. Most jurisdictions mandate that tattoo artists hold licenses and adhere to strict health and safety protocols to safeguard against infections and ensure the well-being of their clients.
Myth 3: Tattoo Artists Can Copy Any Design Exactly
While tattoo artists are capable of reproducing designs with high fidelity, professional ethics dictate a respect for intellectual property. Rather than making direct copies, ethical tattoo artists prefer crafting bespoke artworks that reflect the individuality of each client, tailoring designs inspired by initial ideas.
Myth 4: Tattoo Shops are Unsanitary
Reputable tattoo parlors uphold exemplary standards of cleanliness and hygiene. From using sterile equipment and disposable needles to following rigorous sanitation protocols, they ensure a pristine and safe environment for clients and artists alike.
Myth 5: All Tattoo Artists are the Same
Tattoo artists are as varied as the art they create, each bringing a unique blend of styles, specialties, and experience to the table. Whether it’s traditional, realism, watercolor, or geometric designs, it’s crucial for clients to select an artist whose vision aligns with their tattoo aspirations.
Myth 6: Only Sailors, Bikers, and Criminals Get Tattoos
For a while, this was actually true. People who were outsiders of mainstream society would get tattooed. However, today this is a myth. All different types of people from many different industries get tattooed, as tattooing has become more popular.
Myth 7: Tattoo Artists Are Mean
There’s an old stereotype that tattoo artists are intimidating and rude. Because tattoo clients were originally people who were rough around the edges and because tattoo artists were more rare, many artists didn’t care about customer service. However, as more tattoo artists have come on the scene and tattooing has become more mainstream, customer service has become an incredibly important part of the job.
Myth 8: Sailor Jerry Practiced on Cadavers
Sailor Jerry is an iconic figure in tattooing, and he’s credited as the creator of the American Traditional tattoo style. However, learning to tattoo and refining his new style would take a lot of practice. Rumor has it that Norman Keith Collins (Sailor Jerry) had connections with local morgues, which meant he could sneak in and practice on the bodies inside.
Myth 9: Tattooing Is a “Crazy” Lifestyle
While reality TV might portray tattoo shops as hotbeds of drama, this is typically staged for entertainment. In reality, tattoo artists lead professional lives focused on artistry and client interactions, with their “wild stories” being the exception rather than the norm. Despite some artists enjoying nightlife, many dedicate their off-hours to perfecting their craft and spending time with family.
Myth 10: You Have to Have a Tattoo Apprenticeship to Learn Tattooing Properly
While traditional apprenticeships were once the primary path to becoming a tattoo artist, advancements in digital education have broadened learning avenues. Aspiring artists now have access to online tutorials and resources, allowing for flexible learning that can adapt to personal circumstances and financial situations.