Roxx, 2SpiritTattoo, San Francisco, CA
It’s Your Tattoo
Designing a tattoo is a complicated topic.
Getting the right tattoo for each person is different. I will dip into the discussion and follow up with another deeper post in the future. Regardless, this is pretty important because, otherwise years down the road you’ll look down at the tattoo and think “WTF, why did I get a tattoo of Honey Boo Boo on my chest?”…unless you’re her father this will be a huge issue.
What’s your vision?
Do you have a clear image in your mind, a vague notion of the subject matter, or do you just want something that the artist created with minimal guidelines? Each of these may be your vision at different times of your life.
My first tattoo I designed myself, I was in art school and felt I should be the creator. I mean it was my rep on the line ( I can’t say it’s my favorite one, hence I ended up in corporate life). The next one, I found a specific image to be inked. Later tattoos, I moved towards artists with very specific styles and artistic expression and I wanted any work from them.
Generally here is what happens. You have a notion of what you want but it’s often locked in your head and getting it out either via a picture or words doesn’t do it full justice. But the artist will ask you to provide reference images, something so she or he can understand the elements you want. So do some in-depth research on the web, go to the library or bookstore, take pictures if the image is a landscape, plant life, or animal.
What colors or just black?
It’s important to decide whether the piece should be in color, black & white, or just in black ink. This understanding will guide you to the right artist, because some excel in color theory while some are known for their black work.
What part of your body
Where will this tattoo be placed. There are a lot of considerations you should think about. Do you want to see it every day or be pleasantly surprised any time you catch it in the mirror? Is the area a painful area like the rib cage?
Will the image look right with the curves of your body? The artist should be able to guide you in this, so listen to them as they are the experts and can analyze your body, knowing what will show the best and age well.
Don’t be in a rush
It’s not worth racing to the finish line too quick with this endeavor. Better you plan it out and are sure you have all your reference materials for your artist consultation.
Now find an artist
Cheers
Phoenix
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