As the popularity of body art reaches individuals worldwide, many high school students use tattoos as a form of self-expression. Several students at RV have opted to get tattoos, each with a unique backstory. From the reasons behind their decisions to the experience of getting it, discovering the intriguing narrative behind each tattoo is a captivating experience.
A common misconception among the public about getting tattoos young is that later in life, someone will regret their permanent decision. However, this isn’t always the case.
Junior Kaiya Johnson has two tattoos on her hand. One a pink heart, and the other a purple and black infinity heart, both small pieces that don’t draw much attention.
“I think because my tattoos aren’t small, I will not regret them,” she said. “If it was a sleeve, maybe I would regret them, but I think these are too small for me to hate, at least I hope so.”
Johnson got her tattoo when she first turned 17, and just as many students who get tattoos before they are legal adults, had to undergo an extra procedure.
“My mom had to sign a consent form, bring my birth certificate, and go through a couple of legal steps for me to get the tattoo,” she said.
Despite the fact that young teens can get inked with parental consent before turning 18, many think that even if eighteen is young; that it is better to wait until a person’s an adult than to get it earlier.
“Being 18 should be the minimum because that’s when you make decisions,” said senior Tra’Sean Nichols, who has a wrist tattoo of his own. “That’s when you must go through the whole process yourself.”
And while the process of getting a tattoo may be daunting, many individuals who are willing to go through it often have a sentimental reason for doing so.Tattoos are a form of expression; many express sentimental items through tattoos.
Junior Jalyn Barr got her tattoo at 16, dedicating it to a core childhood memory.
“When I was younger, my aunt and I used to collect butterflies together, and it was something I loved doing with her,” she said. “My aunt was pleased I chose to get this tattoo.”
Barr is not the only one who has dedicated their tattoo to childhood.
“I grew up loving Greek gods,” said Nichols. “I wanted my tattoo to represent me and remind me of who I was.”
His tattoos are one of the Versace band, and a flower represents Medusa, which is also the logo of Versace.
“All together, I plan on getting a whole sleeve on my arm, representing Medusa,” said Nichols.
“My mom has a star on her hand,” said Johnson, “and I was inspired to get tattoos from her, so I wanted to twin with her.”
“I got my tattoo for my aunt who passed away due to cancer six years ago. She liked butterflies,” said junior Tatianna King.
King’s butterflies behind her ear are a sweet tribute she had planned and prepped for.
“Many people say tattoos hurt; however, I did not feel it at all.”
While tattoos may not be for everyone, respecting the decisions of those who choose to get them is essential. Simply asking students about their tattoos begins a dialogue that sheds light on the motivations and experiences of students with tattoos and encourages a better understanding and acceptance of this form of self-expression.
However, at the end of the day, if the tattoo is not something a person is pleased with, they can do something about it.
“I don’t think I will regret [my tattoo],” said Nichols. “Even if I do, I can always cover it up. I think of it kind of like piercings; if you don’t like them, you can take them out.”
