An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest Tiffany Cross Grand Valley State University

McNair Scholars Journal

Volume 12 | Issue 1 Article 3

2008 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest Tiffany Cross Grand Valley State University

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Recommended Citation Cross, Tiffany (2008) "Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest," McNair Scholars Journal: Vol. 12: Iss. 1, Article 3. Available at: http://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/mcnair/vol12/iss1/3

Copyright © 2008 by the authors. McNair Scholars Journal is reproduced electronically by ScholarWorks@GVSU. http://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/ mcnair?utm_source=scholarworks.gvsu.edu%2Fmcnair%2Fvol12%2Fiss1%2F3&utm_medium=PDF&utm_campaign=PDFCoverPages Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest

Abstract Introduction

America has become a society in which Miami Ink, L.A. Ink, and now London almost anything can be bought or sold. Ink. These reality television shows exem- This study, through both the ethnologi- plify the prevalence of tattoo acquisition cal comparison of contemporary tattoo in the twenty-first century. These shows acquisition research and ethnographic feature tattoo artists who through their fieldwork in Graylin, Michigan, analyzes craft have become household names in the increase in the acquisition of tattoos the manner of other pop culture celebri- within the past two decades. Specifically, ties like Britney Spears and Madonna, this study focuses on tattoo acquisition both of whom are also tattooed. It is in the Midwest and tests whether the ex- not just television that illustrates the pectations gained from the literature are growth of tattoos in the United States. If one were to visit local libraries and Tiffany Cross significantly relevant to this region of the bookstores, one might notice shelves McNair Scholar United States. Through interview, survey, and participant observation, the goal of filled with books like Steve Gilbert’s The research ultimately is to analyze cultural Tattoo History Source Book, discussing transmission and trends. In past studies, the tattoo’s past, or Dale Rio’s Tattoo, the focus has been on class, identity, con- filled with pages upon pages of photo- sumerism, and subculture distinction, but graphs establishing the tattoo as many this study examines these four “themes” things from an emblem of independence together to gain some understanding of to an art form. There are magazines like tattoo acquisition as a whole. Tattoo Artist Magazine, a self-proclaimed “quarterly trade journal for the Profes- *Note: Many of the names in this study sional tattooer.” A plethora of scholarly are aliases. articles in economics, sociology, psy- chology, history, and anthropology and reference books provide evidence of the tattoo’s surge in popular interest. A 2003 survey done by Scripps Howard Ann Kroll Lerner, Ph.D. News and The Ohio State University Faculty Mentor reported that 15 percent of the U.S. adult population have tattoos and the figure rises to 28 percent of in adults younger than twenty-five (Kang and Jones 2007, 42). Accepting this figure’s accuracy, it means that nearly 450,000 Americans have at least one tattoo. The popular perception holds that before influential cultural icons like the Rolling Stones started revealing their tattoos to the public in the 1970s and 1980s, only sailors, “loose” women, the blue-collared, and criminals had tattoos. In the eyes of the mainstream or average American, these individuals were just as immoral or impure as the tattoos they acquired (DeMello 2000, 44-52). The tattoo was something considered exotic or weird that had originated amongst savages in what were believed to be backwards or less civilized cultures

GVSU McNair Scholars Journal VOLUME 12, 2008 15 (Kosut 2006; DeMello 2000). Sailors Auto-Ethnography were amazed at the piercing, I was a and military men who came back from rebel in their eyes. The piercing gave tours in the Pacific are often credited My interest in tattoos began in my me some type of “cool” status. I was with bringing traditional Polynesian childhood. My father, through his civil suddenly aware that in American culture, body art to the shores of North America. service career, was continually invited an unacceptable behavior or practice As it arrived in the States, it spread to the different cultural events around is “cooler” within younger circles and increasingly amongst the sailors, fac- Chicago. I remember seeing tattoos for my experience was a clear example tory workers, even carnies—essentially the first time at the yearly Puerto Rican of this divide between generations. among the working class (Thomas, Cole Day parade. In 1996, at ten years of age, As I continued to see tattoos through- and Douglas 2005; DeMello 2000). none of the people I knew personally out the city, my cerebral interest grew Today, the tattoo has made consider- had tattoos (or at least visible ones), and intensely. I saw people with several able inroads into American culture. The although I may have seen them on televi- small tattoos and others with their arms, so-called everyman and everywoman sion the sight of one up close sparked my backs, and legs covered in murals of are acquiring tattoos in the twenty-first interest significantly. I did not know at ink, or the “tattooed people.” None of century. It appears that it is losing its the time what people widely thought of these varieties seemed weird or im- bad reputation and can be seen more tattoos, but I know I had not seen many moral to me. They appeared to wear and more on the necks, hips, backs, and of them. I was unsure of why this was the the figures, shapes, and letters on their arms of America’s population. The rapid case. In my opinion as a child, I thought skin without fear that someone might acceptance has given researchers across the decoration was worth my interest and constantly think negatively about what the social sciences reason to take notice. attention. Surely, the individuals who they had chosen to do to their bodies. I Their studies have acknowledged the had acquired these tattoos must have also wondered how their tattoos seemed so tattoo’s once exotic cross-cultural roots, believed similarly. However, after point- prominent and pronounced to me, but its tumultuous American history, and ing a tattoo out to my father that day, as I watched these individuals, their tat- growing acceptance in late-twentieth/ear- I learned that he disapproved of them toos were not simply tattoos; they had ly-twenty-first century American culture. considerably. According to him, and become one with that “self,” that person. Some of the most recent in-depth later reinforced by my mother, if I even In my mid-to-late teens, tattoos pieces such as Margo DeMello’s Bodies thought about getting a tattoo, I would exposed me to a larger world outside of Inscription (2000) and Clinton Sand- be in a tremendous amount of trouble. my family and friends. My interests in ers’ Customizing the Body (1989) have Similar to my parents’ beliefs were tattoos led me to examine my family’s sparked several other tattoo acquisition those of my friends’ parents and my values in comparison to mainstream investigations. Contemporary literature teachers. I received my elementary and media values and the values of friends establishes four main themes: class, secondary educations in private Catholic outside of my original social network. identity, commoditification/consumer- schools and I knew from the way other As tattoos started cropping up on the ism, and culture-subculture. Stem- parents reacted to the sight of tattoos celebrities I liked or idolized, I found ming from these themes are embedded or discussion of tattoo acquisition that that despite my parents’ objections, I expectations: contemporary tattooees tattoos (in addition to piercings other personally approved and admired the are of the middle class; Americans than one and just one in the bottom of practice. At the age of eighteen, once I acquire tattoos to create new identities the ear lobe) were unacceptable, taste- could legally get a tattoo, I decided that I for themselves; the increase in acquisi- less, shameful, and unladylike. Students would not get just anything or simply get tion is linked to American consumerist who came to school (in both elementary a tattoo for a tattoo’s sake. I had been a habits; and tattoo subcultures within and high school) with piercings in any fan of tattoos for too long and I had older the United States, so-called “tattooed place other than the ear would receive friends with tattoos. I knew what went people,” are trying to separate them- a detention and were asked to remove into acquiring a tattoo. I’d seen the work selves from the general practices of most their piercings permanently. In high being done and had witnessed the pain contemporary tattooees. Current research school, students would be sent home if one endures during and after acquisition. attempts to qualify or disqualify these their tattoos were exposed and made to In the summer of 2006, I went with a expectations within contemporary tattoo cover it or not come back to school. friend when he decided to acquire an Az- circles by analyzing tattooees, tattooers, I remember after pleading with my tec symbol on his upper back in a tattoo and anyone else connected to them. mother, she took me to get a piercing in studio in Logan Square, an area on the In my research, I apply these expecta- my upper ear cartilage for my fourteenth north side of Chicago. He held my hand tions to my own testing ground, Gray- birthday. This piercing, although not through every wince during the acquisi- lin, Michigan. Graylin is a middle-size any larger or shaped any differently, is tion. Afterward, I had to help him put his Midwestern city, population 193,000, not a traditional lower earlobe piercing shirt on over his open wound and then located in southwestern Michigan. It is and therefore appeared to be provoca- heard his audible discomfort on the drive the chosen site of my pilot study because tive. When my father saw the piercing, home. Personally, I could not go through other research ignores regions outside he was very displeased. He asked me that amount of pain for reasons I deemed of large urban centers like Los Angeles, what else I intended on piercing, making childish or artificial. The permanence New York City, Miami, and Chicago. me feel ashamed. My friends at school and pain that come along with a tattoo

16 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest heavily influenced the length of time I tattoo. Through the conversation with and M. Davis. From what I had seen took to acquire a tattoo and to make the my artist, I learned that I had to enlarge there was little evidence of a significant final decision. Therefore for the next two my original words and symbol so that tattoo circle or subculture within Graylin. years, I put considerable thought into my the ink would not “fall in on itself.” My Chicago, even with its size and influence, acquisition. This thought process includ- artist was considering the elasticity of was not at the cutting edge of tattooing. ed not only ideas about placement and my skin and the components of the ink As with fashion trends, Chicago and the design, but also the date and studio I was and how the ink would settle as he ap- Midwest are “trend followers” of New going to get my tattoo. I wanted a tattoo plied it to the specific area of my body York City and Los Angeles. My research that symbolized a hidden aspect of my and the particular tattoo I wanted. I was explores the tattoo culture of my home, identity, and I specifically wanted words. extraordinarily satisfied with the work. the Midwest, the land between the two In discussing tattoo acquisition For me, the acquisition of my tattoo culturally influential coasts. I chose to fo- throughout that March and April with was something special, almost spiritual, cus on Graylin as a microcosm of tattoo tattooed friends and a few of their art- and I found a studio and artist who could culture and acquisition in the Midwest. ists, I heard that sometimes one does understand this. In actually acquiring The critical question I ask here is, “Does not want a tattoo first and then decides the tattoo, I felt that I had moved past Midwestern tattoo culture compare to the on the design. Instead, he or she wants the infamous impulsive tattoo phase of expectations of literature set by research a design to be tattooed on them. It is not adolescence and that I was making a ra- elsewhere?” Past research, limited to big the desire for a tattoo but a desire for tional and careful decision based on who cities essentially, examines the cutting- something significant to be tattooed on I was and who I wanted to be. I showed edge trends and their origins but not the self which drives people to acquire my parents the tattoo a few weeks after really the cultural transmission to other one. I understood this more clearly when my acquisition, and despite their earlier places. In understanding tattoo acquisi- I came upon the expression Bearfaidh opinions they accepted my decision. I tion in the Midwest I hope to learn some- Me Bua—“I shall overcome” in Gaelic. explained what it meant to me, and in thing more about my own acquisition. I am one-part Irish, but one would a way I think I convinced them that it never know it just by looking at my was acceptable for me. The two of them Methodology caramel complexion. I also grew up in appreciate the discrete location of my an area on the south side of Chicago tattoo, recognizing that if I did not want To collect my data, I surveyed various with enormous Irish pride. I am proud anyone to see it, it could be conveniently Graylin residents, conducted interviews of all the parts of me and I acknowledge hidden. I selected this location for two with Graylin residents, and interviewed them equally. It is also important to note reasons. First, I did not think the design two tattoo artists in each of the more that I’ve experienced more than my would look as good anywhere else. popular and well-known Graylin studios. share of tribulations growing up with Secondly, I know that there are some em- Participant observation was a necessary parents who struggled to provide their ployers who still look down on individu- part of this study as well. I observed both children with all the opportunities that als with visible tattoos. I believe that it of the areas in which the two studios they had never had. “I shall overcome” was my acquisition that also led many of are located for two days, each for three means more that I have and will not my close friends’ parents to have a more hours at a time for two weeks, to evalu- allow adversity to stop me. For me, this positive attitude about the practice. They ate appropriately the demographics of message combines my heritage and my had known me for years and seeing as the clientele compared to the neighbors. struggles. Additionally, I chose to put I was not a rebellious, wild, or troubled In order to survey individuals I used the Celtic symbol for the Trinity (father, individual, their assumptions about tat- three methods: email correspondence, son and Holy Spirit) below the phrase tooees had been somewhat disproved. phone conversations, and an anonymous to signify my agnosticism ironically. My personal interests and experi- survey posted on a Web site. To find I found the Graylin studio where I ence expanded into a preliminary individuals to participate in either the acquired my tattoo by asking friends research project on tattoos and their anonymous survey or the personal inter- where they had acquired their tattoos. acquisition. Growing up in Chicago view, I used a snowball method. I asked By investigating the quality of work and and moving to Graylin, Michigan, for acquaintances and random individuals, exterior appearance of the various shops, college presented me with an alternate who then asked their family, cowork- I decided on a studio located on the south sense of the Midwest. In the north side ers, or friends to contact me if they side of Graylin. Through my experience neighborhoods of Chicago, Boystown were interested, and friends of friends with tattooed friends, I knew that tattoos and Belmont, I saw the tattoo culture did the same. The end result of the were ultimately collaborations between of a big city. Chicago has a large tattoo/ data collection was fifty-two surveyed the artist and the tattooee. From what I piercing subculture found in other major individuals and fifteen interviewees. have seen and heard, people go into a urban centers like Los Angeles and New In survey and interview, out of the studio with a design and usually get a York City. There are numerous heavily individuals who expressed interest, I tattoo in which the size, color, placement, tattooed and pierced individuals, as well selected a mix of individuals, those or design has been negotiated according as renowned tattoo establishments such with and without tattoos, in order get a to what the artist thinks is right for the as The Dragon Tattoo & Body Piercing spectrum of thoughts and opinions on the

GVSU McNair Scholars Journal VOLUME 12, 2008 17 subject. I asked each informant several with flyers or wrappers. Every other of bustling restaurants, boutiques, and questions pertaining to her or his specific storefront is vacant, most of the buildings bars, Diversion, the street that the south knowledge and perception of tattoo- are older brick buildings, and most have side studio is located on, houses several ing (see Figure 1). We also specifically paint chipping from their siding or signs. vacant or abandoned storefronts and discussed placement, design, and size, as The tattoo studio itself is decorated buildings. There is also a food pantry, a these might indicate whether an indi- in red, white, yellow, and orange letter- thrift store, and an older bar to the left vidual belongs to a subcultural group or ing, which spells out the studio’s name side of the street, all in need of repair. adheres to certain cultural or consumer on the front and side windows as well The lettering, siding, and decorations are norms. Each interview may have also as on the sign that borders the building either falling off, in need of touch-up, or touched upon other topics like class, and a small sign advertising a special lack any color or refurnishing other than gender, and sexuality, but not necessar- on multiple piercings for $20 each. The a bleak tan. Most recently, a restau- ily. With the tattoo artists, I explored interior is a small space in which there rant and a bar opened right next to one trends in design, the demographics of are a few chairs lined up against the another on the right side. The bar has a their current and past patrons, meaning windows for customers to sit in, books of shiny silver décor and large windows and or symbolism of past work, and their flash pages (ready-made tattoo designs) glass door that allow passersby to see acknowledge of the tattoo community for customers to look through, and a tivities inside. The restaurant is decorated within and outside of Graylin. Addition- few decorations—items like a flame- in navy and dark red insignia and décor. ally, I asked if they had any theories decorated skateboard. Upon entrance, Immediately to the left of these newer about the growth in tattoo acquisition. there is a glass table where the individual establishments is a much older pub For my participant observation I who takes appointments or sets up pierc- without the large polished glass windows chose two studios, one on the west side ings sits. Sometimes artists sit up there and modern décor. It caters to a more of the city and the other on the south with this individual and are able to talk casual clientele. The tattoo studio itself is side. When I initially considered this with the customers and help them make located next to a popular lesbian, gay, bi- study, I discussed tattoo acquisition with a decision or clear something up. When sexual, and transgender (LBGT) club that friends, classmates, and associates. These I went in the introduce myself, the tattoo proudly hangs a rainbow flag outside and two locations were mentioned most artists and piercers were all in the back a few buildings down from a punk music often. The west side location is slightly of the studio, but when I returned the venue. The residents in this community separated from new business growth in second time to confirm my interviews, are an eclectic combination as well. The an area by train tracks. The more recently one of the artists was sitting at the pantry and thrift store along with the built establishments are closer to the front desk and others were sitting along bars lend the street a mixed atmosphere. heart of downtown and they are just another table which displayed differ- Throughout the weekend, I observed before the train tracks. Before the train ent piercing tools and accessories to the and talked to teenagers (both young tracks, one will notice the majority of back, near the tattoo and piercing areas. males and females) dressed in very the businesses have large open windows, The piercing and tattoo areas are small tight jeans with hair of many abnormal stainless steel features, detailed letter- but not cramped. There is plenty of room shades, spiked hair, or hair covering their ing, and clear sidewalks. One side of the for the artist’s tattooing station, materi- faces—teens who would be described a street holds two bars frequented most als, drawings, and awards. Everything punk, emo, or scensters. These individu- by local college students and young from the table to the ink is organized to als “hung out” at a small music estab- professionals and a public house most fit into the room while allowing enough lishment called the DAAC. Toward the frequented by a mix of college students room for more people to accompany two newer establishments, I observed or college-aged individuals, young pro- a tattooee or person getting pierced. an older crowd of people dressed much fessionals, and persons in their thirties Everything is kept in what seems like its more formally and mostly Caucasian. or older. Located just a few buildings proper place. This establishment employs As I talked with a few groups of these down from these establishments is a three male artists as well as two female people on separate nights, I learned that newly built firehouse lending a sense of and two male piercers, and the artists many had grown up in Graylin and were safety to that part of the neighborhood. themselves are originally from Gray- Dutch and Christian. Many informants Just behind the tracks on the corner lin. However, there are times when the were young adults who were finish- of Bird Street is the small tattoo studio. studio employs visiting artists—artists ing up their undergraduate or graduate Directly to the front of the studio is a who the west side studio artists met at education or recently entered into the pawn shop with a dusty and slightly torn conventions or through other tattooees. workplace, while others were in their awning displaying its name, and to its The south side studio is located in an late twenties to early- and mid-thirties. left are two local Mexican restaurants area that is similarly racially and eco- Both the older pub and the LGBT club and a few commercial banks. The resi- nomically diverse. Here, one notices that were hosts to a mix of people, but more dents are a mix of college students and the neighborhood is trying to diversify so the club, with people of different middle- and lower-class African Ameri- its business and change economically. It ethnicities and class wearing everything can, Caucasian, and Hispanic families. is just seconds from the heart of down- from baseball jerseys to business attire. The sidewalks of these streets are littered town Graylin as well. However, instead The tattoo studio itself has an open

18 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest seating area with a small set of chairs Literature Review win and Margo DeMello, author of Bod- against the window. The other spaces in ies of Inscription (2000), concluded is the seating area are lined with books of From exhibitionism and spiritual that the tattoo has moved into the middle flash pages. The wooden floor is polished awakening to sexuality and individual- class and anchored itself amongst those and gleaming and the design and lettering ism, there are a range of reasons why who initially disapproved of the practice. on the front window is simple, not flashy. contemporary Americans say they What is a bit unclear in the works of It reads the name of the studio as well as acquire tattoos and a range of works that DeMello, Sanders, Kosut, and Irwin is the studio’s telephone number. The door analyze everything from the contempo- how exactly the middle class is defined. displays the days and hours of operation. rary developments in the profession to Class is a relatively ambiguous and Inside the studio are what seemed to be the associated attributes. In literature that often contradictory term that can be de- neatly and purposefully placed designed focuses on why, who, and where people scribed by shared values, practices, or so- skateboards and a designed motorcycle. acquire tattoos, four themes—class, cioeconomic status. Some experts might There are also plaques and awards identity, consumerism, and culture-sub- say that the middle class makes America placed carefully on the walls and several culture—are prevalent. It is necessary to what it is, meaning that it is the defining trophies, including a recent one on top discuss each theme in order to illustrate aspect of the American way of life. There of a wall that separates the waiting area my expectations for this research. is supposedly not simply a lower class from the artists’ areas. Everything in the Class and a ruling class, but a class in between studio is polished and sits in a manner Class at one time was an indicator of educated people who share the same that gives the entire studio a very spa- for whether or not one would or could traditions and values. This category is cious look. The desk worker is always acquire a tattoo. Looking at the history of characterized by the so-called stability it the same women; she helps customers tattoos in the United States, researchers brings to the economy and by hard-work- set appointments, answers the phone, agreed that before the 1980s the working ing Americans with a hope for success and sorts out inquiries with the custom- class constituted the majority of tattooed and sense of social responsibility, as well ers. The piercing and tattoo stations are individuals (Seward 1990). It has been as an emphasis on family and education, spotless and roomy. While one might fascinating for anthropologists as well particularly a college education (Hoch- enter a tattoo studio expecting some- a spectrum of other social scientists to schild 1995; Kalil 1999). The middle thing else, this studio have the feel of a watch as tattoo acquisition moved among class has been stretched out to include trendy doctor’s office. The studio also the classes, the larger middle class in par- almost every person probably under the employs seven male artists (two origi- ticular. In “Legitimating the First Tattoo: top 10 percent of American income. Es- nally from the Graylin area, one from Moral Passage through Informal Interac- sentially, even the exceedingly wealthy a nearby community, and one from the tion,” Katherine Irwin discussed how the have a place in the middle class if they east side of the state) and two piercers, middle class developed a set of legitima- hold these values and participate in the the master piercer and his male protégé. tion techniques to supposedly maximize allotted practices (Kalil 1999). Therefore, Graylin State University is the larg- what they saw as the positive benefits of when evaluating Graylin, I used shared est university in the Graylin area. It becoming tattooed (having independence practices and beliefs instead of income is especially important to discuss my and autonomy from authority) and mini- to distinguish an individual’s class. For investigation of Graylin State Universi- mize the negative meanings associated me, the stereotypical middle class tradi- ty’s influence in the community because with tattoos (being low-class, criminal, tionally eats dinner as a family, attends of how it affects tattoo acquisition in dangerous) (2001, 54). Irwin argued that church or religious events together, sends Graylin. In past years Graylin State’s middle-class tattooees circulated in sev- children to college, makes children aware student population mainly lived in the eral social worlds. While at school and of social responsibility, has children small town of Alister, Michigan. With the with friends, individuals of the middle start working at an early age, and readily growth of the University and develop- class would often learn that tattoos sym- enjoy activities and events with a larger ment of free bus transportation between bolized independence and freedom from extended family. In this way, an indi- its Graylin and Alister campuses, Graylin conventional society. However, at work, vidual can also declare him or herself State students have migrated into the with friends, or hanging out with indi- of a particular class just like the De- city and have spread some influence. viduals who more or less strictly adhered Melt family (an extremely wealthy and Several Graylin students come from to the rules and practices of conventional prominent Graylin family), who often communities outside of Graylin and have society, potential tattooees continued to assert that they have middle-class values. brought differing and contrasting values see getting tattoos as courageous and Identity and beliefs with them. It is necessary acceptable behavior. It was through their Identity is a theme characterized to take into consideration how these interactions with tattoo critics (perhaps a by what the tattoo ultimately does or values and beliefs have transformed or mix of professionals, clergymen, and the provides for the individual who acquires influenced tattoo acquisition in Graylin. like) that potential tattooees studied and it. Especially in the last ten years experts discovered how a tattoo could change have argued that it is through tattoo their interaction in conservative social acquisition that the modern individual worlds (2001, 58). What scholars like Ir- intentionally attempts to mold him- or

GVSU McNair Scholars Journal VOLUME 12, 2008 19 herself into the person he or she wants While some believe that the recent symbol-oriented (DeMello 2000). to be, to ultimately construct his or her increase in tattoo acquisition is linked to The Neo Primitive movement uses the social self (Atkinson 2004; Feathersome notions of self-identification and inde- solidarity and group association con- 1999; Wohlrab, Stahl, and Kapperler pendence, others contend that within our nected to primitive tattooing to oppose, 2007; Braunberger 2000). The body, ac- consumer culture the tattoo has become resist, and separate themselves from what cording to Craig Shilling, author of The just another commodity in a world where they see as fad and commercial styles of Body and Social Theory (1995), is al- almost anything can be bought or sold. In tattooing (Atkinson and Young 2001). ways in this process of becoming. In this this instance, one does not acquire a tat- For members of this subcultural group, theory, Shilling asserts that the body’s too in the pursuit if a separate, authentic tattooing provides spiritual, emotional, shape, size, appearance, and contents are self, but just to purchase “something” and practical rewards—rewards that are subject to reconstruction on a continual else. According to articles like “The Pos- repressed by the overarching societal basis. Through the choice to acquire and sibility of Primitiveness: Towards a Soci- structure and institutions of the Western the specific qualities (color, style, place- ology of Body Marks in Cool Societies” world (Rosenblatt 1997; Atkinson and ment, and design) a person selects for his by Turner (2000), the tattoo is no longer Young 2001). Neo Primitive tattoos are or her tattoo, the individual is defining a an emblem of rebellion and buyers need characterized by their supposed tribal persona according to his or her personal not beware because the tattoo today is lines and shapes that follow the body’s standards, opinions, and internal beliefs. optional, narcissistic, impermanent, and natural contours, tattooed in black and Atkinson and Young (2001) write that decorative (cited in Featherstone 1999). red ink. These tattoos are large and “[tattooing is a] process of intentionally The adjectives optional, narcissistic, often full-body (Atkinson and Young reconstructing the corporeal in order to impermanent, and decorative are now 2001; Camphausen 1997). Neo Primi- symbolically represent and physically attributed to the tattoo because it is, in tive tattooees as well as the individu- chronicle changes in one’s identity, the opinion of Turner, a commodity. It als called tattoo collectors (individuals relationships, thoughts and emotion went from a countercultural representa- who aspire to collect tattoos over the over time” (118). Through the literature tion to a fashion statement that teenagers entirety of their bodies) seem to draw individuality stems from a sense that a and twenty-somethings can make, later a line between those who have tattoos person alone is taking control over his remove, and possibly regret. Within the and those who are tattooed—the insiders or her own body, that ownership has realm of this literature, the tattoo as a and the outsiders. Those on the inside been taken back from someplace or commodity in our “throw-away cul- believe that their tattoos are every bit someone, and that this tattoo provides ture” is supposedly just like any other a part of their self as their eyes or their the self with something that is specific product the consumer buys in a market nose. The Neo Primitive tattooees, to the individual (Featherstone 1999). where the consumer is separated from tattoo collectors, and the heavily tat- From the nature of the reading, I am to the means of production and has no real tooed are the tattooed individuals. understand that the individual seeks to knowledge of how things are produced take back this ownership from society or (Sweetman 1999; Kosut 2006). Data Analysis from one’s respective families or class. Another theory is that a tattoo pro- Culture-Subculture From the themes, I expected several vides not an identity in itself, but rather Culture-subculture is a theme linked results: independence. The acquisition of the together because it illustrates how out- • Most individuals acquiring tat- tattoo separates an individual from the side cultures have influenced the con- toos today would be from middle-class ideals, values, and beliefs that they have temporary subcultural American trends families rejected from the broader society (Atkin- in tattooing. Today, Western movements, • Individuals would attach their identi- son and Young 2001). The tattoo histori- most notably the Neo Primitive move- ties to their tattoo cally has been that symbol of rebellion, ments, are adopting so-called “primitive • The increase in tattoo acquisition and here we see the tattoo emerging as a styles” like that of the Maori, the Celts, would be attached to American consum- symbol of values and beliefs anew. The and the yakuza of Japan (Atkinson and erist habits individual establishes his or her indepen- Young 2001). Members of the Neo • There would be drastic differences dence because the tattoo as a symbol is Primitive movement are trying to get between people with tattoos and tattooed still enough to visually separate oneself back to the roots of tattooing and to individuals. Tattooed individuals would from society at large (Bell 1999, para 4). the traditions associated with the styles be those who see the tattoos as another Here, the tattoo serves as a distinction (Bell 1999; DeMello 2000; Atkinson and part of their body. within the accepted social construction Young 2001). While American tattoos I have categorized the results into and not a completely different or new are more image-oriented, primarily literal two sections: “Meets Expectations” and identity for the tattooee. Often heard is interpretations of things that typically “Does Not Meet Expectations/Incon- that individuals acquire their tattoos to stand alone (i.e., a lone rose or cross clusive” so I can properly analyze the illustrate their opposing beliefs about figure), “primitive” tattoos are seen by data without limiting aspects that might religion, sexuality, or the “right life.” tattoo communities around the world meet expectations in some ways but in Commodification/Consumerism to be more ritualistic and identity- and not others, as well as analyze without

20 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest separating similar or shared themes. and conditions, would like a tattoo, but and cousins all had tattoos and he often will wait until she has a stable career. went with his relatives and older friends Meets Expectations: Class, Commodi- Graylin is known for the “conserva- when they were getting work done. He fication/Consumerism, and Identity tism” reported by my informants. Graylin acquired his first tattoos, a large clover could be considered a bit of an anomaly. on the upper back of his right shoulder From the data collected, my results Western Michigan, where Graylin is and a very detailed moon figure on his regarding class and commodification/ located, is considered by other “Michi- front right arm, the year before he started consumerism are consistent with that of ganders” to be “very conservative”— going to Graylin State and told me that the literature, and some parts of the iden- conservative mainly revolving around he intended on getting several more. tity theme meets expectations as well. right-winged Evangelical Christian His best friend, C, explained before Through interactions with relatives, beliefs tied to the strong and continu- he met G at Graylin State, he thought friends, and influential persons of the ing Christian Reform Church tradition that tattoos were ridiculous. He did not same class who have acquired tattoos in the area, as well as Dutch roots in the understand why someone would want and established the tattoo as acceptable, population. The terms I recorded most to go through any amount of pain just self-identified middle-class individu- often were “influential Dutch reform to get a senseless drawing on their skin. als are increasingly acquiring tattoos. traditions,” “right-wing politics,” and After the two students became friends, My informants had families who ate “the Christian Reform Church,” stress- he started to admire G’s tattoos. dinner as a family, attended church or ing that “conservative” individuals here religious events together, sent children did not want to “deviate” from what One day I asked [G] why he picked to college, made children aware of social they believed to be cultural norms. A those two tattoos out of all the responsibility, had children who started recently married couple, both raised in things he could have gotten, and working at an early age, and readily the Christian Reform Church on the east he told me about how his grand- enjoyed activities and events with a side of Graylin, informed me that gen- father, father, uncles, and cousins larger extended family. The vast majority erations of their families have focused had the same clover tattoo on their of my informants, whether from Gray- on living the way the Church and God backs. He said he couldn’t wait to lin, nearby communities, or out of state, wanted them to live, free of sin and pure get his first tattoo, to feel like one declared themselves of the middle class. of heart. While none of my informants of the boys. They all have clovers Of my informants, half of the sixty- could pinpoint exactly where in the Bible because they’re Irish, but it seemed seven individuals reported that it was or their religious tradition it says not to to mean a lot more to him than just the sight of their relatives’ (immediate tattoo or pierce one’s self (although one that they were Irish. I had always or extended) tattoos that influenced their mentioned Leviticus), a few discussed thought that the moon on his arm own acquisition. Others said that it was how it is believed that some piercing was pretty awesome too, but now I the sight and knowledge of their peers’ is seen as adornment to most people, understand what the moon actu- and friend’s tattoos that had influence on while tattooing is mutilation, destroy- ally means to him. He loves the their acquisition. On average six out of ing the body God gave one to spread night, ya know. He has this badass ten informants, both students and profes- His news and live a righteous life. telescope. Yeah, I started to think sionals, indicated that moving away from Many inferred that the conservative about getting one myself, some- their largely conservative parents had attitude in the area has an influence over thing that symbolizes my music a large role in their decision to become the tattoo culture in Graylin for its resi- and my five-year relationship with tattooed. Those twenty-two who did dents but that the Graylin State Universi- my girlfriend. not have a tattoo expressed a variety of ty’s mixed population also has influence reasons why they did not want or have over the continual acquisition. The artists I found that commodification data is a tattoo, ranging from the disapproving I interviewed as well as most informants very much in-line with the most recent views of their friends and families to stated that they believed most tattooees research on tattoos, just like the class their own belief that tattoos are sense- nowadays are college-aged individuals or theme, contending that contemporary less purchases and unnecessary. A female college students. The University brings acquisition (acquisition in the last eight informant said that none of relatives have in students from outside areas. For sev- years) is tied to American unnecessary tattoos as far as she knew. Her family is eral students who have grown up in the consumerist habits. Of all the tattoo “very” Catholic and lives on the east side community or grew up in conservative, stories I recorded, evidence points in this of the state. Her parents, she asserted, middle-class households, this mixed in- direction, especially for first-time tat- told her that if she ever acquired a tat- teraction has changed their views on tattooees under the age of twenty-five. All too they would stop paying her college tooing, and they have found confidence four artists I interviewed expressed that tuition and she would no longer receive in their thoughts of possible acquisition. I would be amazed at the number of col- any type financial assistance from them. I spoke with two young males, G & C, lege students that come in just because They believe that one who acquires a both from nearby communities. One of they are bored. In comparing my own tattoo is defacing and mutilating one’s the young men, G, said that he grew up reasons for acquisition I was surprised. body. She, despite her parents’ beliefs around tattoos. His uncles, father, aunts, These artists state that tattoo acquisi-

GVSU McNair Scholars Journal VOLUME 12, 2008 21 tion has become another activity people mants why they themselves acquired the most people only see maybe 5 percent do to keep themselves entertained. tattoo(s) and/or why they believed one of tattoo culture, and because of the size About eighteen tattooed informants would acquire a tattoo. To quote one of and atmosphere of Graylin, its residents stated that their tattoos were works of art my artist informants, “People get inked see and know even less. He also men- inscribed on their bodies, while ten es- for decorative reasons. It’s like buying a tioned that the heavily tattooed and tattoo pecially stressed that it was a very casual dress for some. For others, people who artists comprise a community because decision to get their tattoo, that they did come in with their own designs, mostly they share a unique connection and ap- not put much thought into the decision, it’s more special. It separates them.” preciation for tattooing. The two artists and they just did it with a friend or rela- The later part of the quote is evidence at the west side location stated that they tive randomly. One artist commented that that connects the decision to acquire believed they were a part of a subcultural the reason women get smaller tattoos in more to independence than to a desire group consisting of individuals who hang hidden places and are more likely to get to form a completely new identity. I was out at tattoo and piercing studios, heav- piercings is because women change their told by nine of my tattooed informants ily tattooed individuals, and individuals minds often and like to have the ability that the actual acquisition made them who “collect” tattoos like the literature’s to change their image with ease. Pierc- feel like it was one of first times they tattoo collectors and tattoo artists. These ings, for the most part, can be easily and were really making their own decision. individuals value tattooing for separate inexpensively removed and closed up. reasons, but it is a genuine appreciation Men are more likely to acquire blatant Does Not Meet Expectations/ and shared interest that unites them. armbands and detailed animals or draw- Inconclusive The other two artists did not believe ings because they are slower to change. they were members of a subcultural This particular comment correlates to There was not a great deal of data group, but stated that they believed such pop culture fashion and seasonal trends: that matched the literature expecta- groups existed according to the style, They change quickly. One trend appar- tions for the identity theme. Very few size of an individual’s tattoo(s), and the ent in the data is the fact that many of informants directly or indirectly men- meaning they ascribe to it/them. Other my college-aged informants went to get tioned the word identity or discussed the than the four artists, the two individuals their tattoos in a group. It appeared that if idea of acquiring a tattoo to construct (both males) who had large tattoos noted these individuals did not have a decision a unique and separate self, one that is that once they acquired larger tattoos made, a design and such picked out, the separate from past beliefs, traditions, they were lumped into a category with group or the other individuals had a con- values, and institutions. Those who did similarly tattooed individuals. One of siderable influence in all aspects of the indicate that they acquired a tattoo to the informants had two tattoo sleeves acquisition, placement, size, and design. express their identity linked this identity (an arm completely covered with tat- A recent graduate of Michigan to a group and never talked about the toos), and the other’s back and left arm State University and new resident of tattoo as an expression of uniqueness. were completely covered. Together, Graylin told me that he considers his The instances I did hear a tattoo being we discussed how—often when their lizard tattoos art, like the art work one an outright symbol of an identity were tattoo-covered body parts were exposed would purchase at a gallery. How- related to sexuality or group association. to the general public (at the gym, beach, ever, the words “Out, Never In” on For example, three of my informants doctor’s office, and the like)—they felt his butt were acquired for just for fun used their tattoos to express that they a bit of alienation or like they were a with his fraternity brothers. The study were openly part of the lesbian com- spectacle. When people were not staring, definitely illustrates through vocal munity. One female explained that her they were asking these individuals ques- opinions and subtle mention that resi- snowflake tattoo symbolizes the day she tions, such as, “Didn’t that hurt?” and dents and students alike often acquired came out to her parents and her solidar- “How long did take to get that done, and tattoos for aesthetic, decorative, and ity with her fellow lesbians and friends. why did you get a that tattoo?” With the maybe even fashion-related reasons. Quoting another of my informants, “As a exception of their families and friends, When it comes to identity, my infor- Marine, I got my tattoo with my buddies, these two informants felt the most mants did often directly and indirectly members of my company, my brothers.” comfortable in the presence of those who express how their tattoo is a symbol of Finally, in examining the idea of tat- have similar tattoo work done. Individu- independence and freedom, yet very few tooed individuals, my data are currently als with tattoo sleeves, full back pieces, of my sixty-seven informants mentioned inconclusive. My pool of informants and or a full bodysuit understood what it anything about identity or a self-estab- my time restriction limited the amount meant to acquire something that sepa- lished and proclaimed identity. Although of data I collected in association with rated an individual from conventional this idea of a separate, self-cultivated the culture-subculture theme. Only six society even if they had differing reasons identity was dominate in the literature, of my informants had multiple large for acquiring their tattoos. Essentially, independence was also another factor in tattoos covering a particular area of their the tattooee may not separate him- or the identity theme, and it was the idea of bodies, and four of these individuals herself or indicate that he or she is a independence that was more consistent were tattoo artists. Of these four indi- member of a subcultural group, but as a with the expectations. I asked my infor- viduals in particular, one told me that result of his or her particular acquisition

22 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest may be categorized or placed in one. culture-subculture was incredibly limited by my inability to talk with individu- Conclusion als who had larger tattoos and spend sufficient time in multiple tattoo studios. Although this preliminary study is My questions, like my sample size, still in the early stages, the data show should also broaden so that I may further considerable consistencies with the class discuss topics like sexuality, religion, and commodification expectations of the gender, and workplace acceptability. literature. The current identity results Although it has only been a prelimi- are a bit inconsistent with expectations nary study, I have also enjoyed the abil- because, while informants often ex- ity to analyze my own acquisition as I pressed how their tattoo is a symbol of learned more about Graylin and tattooing independence and freedom, they rarely through my informants’ perspectives and discussed how their tattoos provided opinions. Although I still assert that my them with a new identity. Again, because acquisition is the result of independent of time restrictions and my limited pool consideration and personal beliefs, I note of informants, the culture-subculture re- that because of commodification of the sults are currently inconclusive. Further tattoo in the late eight years tattooing was investigation is certainly needed with an option for me. If tattooing was not as regards to all four themes, especially popular or accepted as it is today in my the culture-subculture themes, but the age group or in my social circles, I may current results do shed a bit of light on not have acquired a tattoo. I am proud of what I might find through continued my tattoo and I do not try to purposefully examination. The most important aspect hide it. However, I wonder if I would of this preliminary exploration is that I have been as proud of my tattoo thirty have begun tattoo acquisition research years or even ten years earlier, and if one in an area and region previously unstud- act of tattoo acquisition for a mixed–race, ied. This study has allowed me to take middle-class female would have been the first steps in understanding not only completely disgraceful and unacceptable. the factors or influences that drive the My parents accept what I have done increase in tattoo acquisition today, but but would not necessarily approve of also in understanding how the Midwest another tattoo, and they certainly do not affects or is affected by cultural transmis- believe it would be appropriate for my sion. It is a land between two major cul- fifteen-year-old sister to acquire one. tural metropolises, and as a result trends Yet they respect my rights as an adult seem to be imported into the Midwest, and ask only that I be “tasteful” in my but rarely exported. As I continue with actions and consider my future. Some my research, I am left with this ques- of my friends’ parents have accepted tion, “What will it take for the Midwest tattooing in general, perhaps due to my to be at the cutting edge of trend?” acquisition or to their own interactions Because this investigation is still in with more and more individuals with tat- its early stages, it is important to point toos, while others have simply accepted out that a larger sample of informants my acquisition but still disapprove of might elicit contrasting results. It is also tattooing overall. With the research I necessary to emphasize the complex- have done, I feel as though the tide is ity of human reasoning. Although the changing with regards to tattooing even literature divides tattoo acquisition into in conservative areas like Graylin. This simpler themes and categories, things are acceptability is a trend that appears definitely not black and white. Often in- to be moving through the Midwest. fluence and logic behind the acquisition of a tattoo is linked to aspects of class, identity, consumerism, and culture-subculture. These themes are certainly not mutually exclusive. In further investigation, I would like to able to interview more artists and attend a tattoo conven- tion. I think my preliminary data for

GVSU McNair Scholars Journal VOLUME 12, 2008 23 Appendix 1. (Figure 1)

General Survey “Exploring Permanent Property” Grand Valley State University

You are being asked to take part in this survey because either you have a tattoo or multiple tattoos, or your experience, knowledge, opinion, or perspective on American culture as well as tattoos is needed to explore and learn more about the research concept. No identification (name, address, area code, age, etc.) whatever is needed for research purposes and need not be provided.Your opinions will not be judged or seen by anyone other than the researcher, Tiffany Cross. If you have any additional questions or concerns, would like to request a copy of the final manuscript or see what has been done with the information you provided, please contact the researcher at ……

Note: This symbol (* )means these questions are for individuals with tattoos.

1. Is it appropriate to have any type of body art/modification (piercing, tattoos facial implants, henna, etc)?

a) What do you consider appropriate in terms of body art/modification?

b) What do you consider to be extreme in terms of body art or modification?

2. What do you think is appropriate (size, location, design) for tattoos specifically?

3. What are your thoughts on tattoos in American culture today? (Tattoos in everyday life or in the media).

4. Why do you think people get tattoos?

5. Who was the first person you can remember having a tattoo?

6. Do you have, currently want, or at one time want a tattoo or tattoos?

a)If you have a tattoo (s)so, why did you decide to get a tattoo(s)?

b) If you want a tattoo, are you getting one soon and/or what has prevented you from already acquiring one?

c)If you do not want one, why? Do any of your family members or friends have tattoos?

7. *If you have or want a tattoo, how did you decide on the color, placement, design, and size of your tattoo(s)?

8. *[Answer yes or no and then pick and describe location] Did you get your tattoo in one of the following: Western Michigan, in the state of Michigan, or in the Midwest?

a)If so, which one and where was this studio located? What did look like and why did you pick it.

b)If not in the Midwest, where did you get your tattoo(s) done?

24 Exploring Permanent Property: An Exploration of the Tattoo Acquisition in the Midwest References

Atkinson, Michael. 2004. Tattooing and civilizing processes: Body modification as self-control.Canadian Review of Sociology and Anthropology 41, no. 2: 125-42.

Atkinson, Michael, and Kevin Young. 2001. Flesh journeys: Neo Primitives and the contemporary rediscovery of radical body modication. Deviant Behavior 22: 117-46.

Bell, Shannon. 1999. Tattooed: A participant observer’s exploration of meaning. Journal of American Culture 22, no. 2: 53-8.

Braunberger, Christine. 2000. Revolting bodies: The monster beauty of tattooed women. NWSA Journal 12, no. 2: 1-23.

DeMello, Mary. 2000. Bodies of inscription: A cultural history of the modern tattoo community. Durham, NC: Duke University Press.

Feathersome, Mike. 1999. Body modification: An introduction.Body & Society 5, no. 2-3: 1-13.

Hocshchild, Jennifer L. 1995. Facing up to the American dream: Race, class, and the soul of a nation. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.

Irwin, Katherine. 2001. Legitimating the first tattoo: Moral passage through informal interaction.Symbolic Interaction 24, no.1: 49-73.

Kang, Miliann, and Katherine Jones. 2007. Why do people get tattoos? American Sociological Association 6, no. 1: 42-7.

Kosut, Mary. 2006. An ironic fad: The commodification and consumption of tattoos.The Journal of Popular Culture 39, no. 6: 1035- 46.

Sanders, Clinton. 1989. Customizing the body: The art and culture of tattooing. Philadelphia, PA: Temple University Press.

Sweetman, Paul. 1999. Anchoring the (postmodern) self? Body modification, fashion and identity. Body & Society 5, no. 2-3: 51-76.

Thomas, Nicholas, Anne Cole, and Bronwen Douglas. 2005. Tattoo: Bodies, art, and exchange in the Pacific and the West - History of tattooing. Durham, NC: Duke University Press.

Wohlrab, Silke, Jutta Stahl, and Peter M. Kapperler. 2007. Modifying the body: Motivations for getting tattooed and pierced. Body Image 4, no. 1: 87-95.

Vail, D. Angus. 1999. Tattoos are like potato chips … you can’t have just one: The process and being a collector. Deviant Behavior 20, no. 3: 253-73.

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