How Tattoo has Become Mainstream
Tattoos are no longer considered taboo and are becoming more and more mainstream. This ancient practice of body modification has long been associated with rebelling, being a misfit and challenging authority. However, tattoos are now routinely seen by many individuals regardless of their age, race and gender.
The origin of tattoos dates back thousands of years and is believed to have started with the Egyptians. The word “tattoo” is actually derived from the Tahitian word “tatau” which roughly translates to “to mark something”. This practice was mainly used to signify religious beliefs and was spread to many parts of the world by Polynesian sailors in the 17th century.
The modern interpretation of tattoos saw a rise in popularity in the late 20th century, initially with people from the punk, metal and rock scenes. The mixture of wild designs, piercing, and devil-may-care attitude had many people skeptical of the effects tattooing had on younger generations. However, time proved that this form of art was indeed here to stay.
In the last decade, tattoos have become more accepted socially and even encouraged in some places. This is due in part to the changes in fashion, with more designers including tattoos into their clothing lines, as well as the availability of high quality tattoo artists. Social media has also been a great ally towards making tattoos more popular. By sharing their stories and artwork, people are able to stand out and express themselves in ways that were not always possible in the past.
When it comes to more serious tattoo concepts, such as memorials for dearly departed loved ones or statements about serious social issues, many are now more likely to lean away from judgement due to the growth in the acceptance of tattoos. This is a huge shift from the past when tattoos were seen as taboo and frowned upon by many.
At the end of the day, tattoos are now more accessible and considered more mainstream than in the past. We can credit modern technology and social media for bringing about a revolution of self-expression for those who choose to tattoo their bodies. Without a doubt, this ancient art form has become more accepted in society.