Tattooing is an art form that has been practiced for centuries — at one point in time the Polynesians painted their faces with pigment to make a religious statement. Now, this custom has spread all over the world. Although it may not be a religious practice, tattooing holds a personal meaning and value to many.

Despite the taboo that surrounds tattoos, people continue to strengthen their self-expression and their self-confidence with tattoos.

Shane Trevett, a tattoo artist at Shaman’s Den, located in Downtown Binghamton, believes that tattoos have opened their doors to more people and more possibilities, and that, as time progresses, stereotypes vanish.

“A lot more girls are getting tattoos because they realize that [they] can still be perceived as beautiful, successful women, despite a tattoo that may have once destroyed their reputation. Society has definitely become more accepting of tattoos,” Trevett said.

Although tattoos may be a personal form of expression, they are visible to the public. Men and women do, in fact, have opinions on tattoos and what should be considered attractive.

Lisa Lipari, a sophomore majoring in political science, explains that tattoos require certain tastefulness.

“When guys have an exorbitant amount of tattoos, and for no reason, it is not attractive. A guy with a few personal tattoos shows character, and that’s cool,” Lipari said.

Dimitriy Kaplan, an ROTC freshman, explained that he can tell a lot about a girl if she has tattoos.

“If girls have tasteful tattoos then that’s awesome, it probably means they’re comfortable enough with themselves to do what they want, despite what society may think of women with tattoos. I respect a girl like that,” Kaplan said.

However, Trevett explains that his favorite aspect of tattooing is the individuality it provokes.

“Everyone has a different personality, and as a result each tattoo that I draw is a reflection of a person’s individuality,” Trevett said.

Lipari discussed her individuality and explained the rationale behind her own tattoo.

“I got my first tattoo when I was 16, and the fact that it was illegal was thrilling. I drew my tattoo myself. I drew a budding rose to remind myself that there is always the possibility to expand and to grow,” Lipari said.

Kaplan also expressed the personal importance of his tattoo.

“I got the tattoo the day after I turned 18. I got it mainly because I could, because I thought it would look awesome, because I could see myself with it in the future, and maybe a little to piss my parents off. But I did design the tattoo myself. It’s a type of compass symbolizing self-guidance and finding one’s way through life,” Kaplan said.

Trevett explained what he believes to be a motive for many to get tattoos: furthering individuality and creating works of art.

“I know from my own experience that when I get a tattoo, I feel better about myself, more secure. I know that when I walk around and my friends see my new tattoo, they are not looking at my flaws; rather they are looking at my new masterpiece. I suddenly get a rush of self-confidence,” Trevett said.

Lipari agrees that getting a tattoo can be a wonderful experience.

“When I get a tattoo, I feel like I am a new person, on a new adventure, and that I can conquer whatever challenges lay before me,” Lipari said.