Having two fabulous tattoos myself and rather keen on another I was more than a little interested to see what was offer. While I may have not found anything eye-catching enough to spontaneously get myself tattoed many of the expo visitors went under the needle for all to witness. Thighs, arms, backs, chests and bottoms were bared to become more than just body parts. While some don't think they could hande the pain those having tattoos done were all extremely calm and collected as witnesses crowded around in awe.
When asked to describe how it feels to have a tattoo done I provide the same explanation time and time again because it is the closest comparison I can come up with. Having the outline of a tattoo done feels like a razor blade cutting into your skin…and that's the worst of it as the colouring in doesn't feel too painful. You feel the pain during the first five minutes but soon it becomes numb and the line begins to blur between pain and pleasure.
While tattoos and piercings may be shunned and frowned upon in some cultures, there is no doubt in my mind pride is taken in every tattoo etched by these artists onto the skin of others. It is an art form that deserves more than just street cred.
For more on Southern Ink Xposure 2009 visit www.tattoos.com/six/.
