“A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” opined the English Romantic poet, John Keats. But is this true of tattoos? A recent discussion on LinkedIn opened up a lively discourse on the subject of visible tattoos in the workplace. It reminded me of a British Tattoo Art exhibition at The National Maritime Museum in Cornwall a while ago, which also got me thinking about tattoos and how they’re perceived. Are tattoos body art or a form of taboo body mutilation? To be clear, I’m talking about permanent tattoos here, not henna tattoos, nor temporary transfer ones.
Tattoos body art in history
Historically, tattoos have been around for a very long time, 12,000 years BC some say. And of course body art history is important in many cultures too. The Royal Museums Greenwich has ten interesting facts about tattoos – for example, King Harold II of England had a number of tattoos, which were used to identify his body after his death at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. It’s hard to imagine Prince Charles or Prince William getting a tattoo, although I have no trouble envisaging Prince Harry with several.
Why have a tattoo?
Clearly, people get tattooed for all sorts of reasons. Some do it because it’s important culturally. Others do it to demonstrate their affiliation to a group. Some do it as a celebration for a loved one. Others do it to draw attention away from a scar or disfigurement. Some do it in a spirit of fun or rebellion. And then there are those who do it because, why not?
Are tattoos body art or not?
Canvassing opinions among friends of varying ages, the jury is still out as to whether tattoos are types of body art or taboo body mutilation. For many, tattoos indicate a rebellious streak and even a dangerous person. Others relate tattoos with body piercings and find them quite ugly.
Some said they’d be nervous of a heavily tattooed person, but thought that a single or discreet tattoo could be quite interesting. And some friends had tattoos that I didn’t know about so that was a lovely surprise. Without exception, those friends regarded their tattoos as body art and a very personal form of self-expression.
I think tattoos are becoming more and more accepted nowadays, dare I say even fashionable. So many celebrities and public figures have them. For example, Angelina Jolie, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Wiz Khalifa, and of course David Beckham. But then they’re in the fortunate position of not having to work in what I would call the real world, i.e. an office or a customer-facing position.
I think it would be a rare employer indeed that would hire someone with visible tattoos to work in most front-facing jobs. Some employers even insist that visible body art is covered in the work place. And the aforementioned debate on LinkedIn showed people’s opinions are split down the middle. But with the success of E4’s reality television series, Tattoo Fixers, perhaps that situation could change in the future.
Would I get a tattoo?
I’m with John Keats on this one as I find some tattoos extremely beautiful and I believe they are a very personal form of body art. While I’m not personally sure about heavy tattoo coverage, particularly on the face, I don’t think any of us has the right to pronounce against another person’s self-expression. Some of the most striking and artistic tattoos I’ve seen include:
- A magnificent antlered stag on a rock covering the back of an elderly British man in Greece
- A snake on the top of a girl’s foot that ran down to her toes
- A dragon at the base of a girlfriend’s spine
- A white ink rose tattoo on a lady that disguised her surgery scar
- A wolf’s head and Indian feathers on a man’s bicep (OK, I’m biased, this one belongs to my husband)
I had a small tattoo done on my hip several years ago (I call him My Little Spy) and I do view mine as body art, albeit in miniature. And I would really like to get another one done for our next wedding anniversary. A dragon? A cat? A bird? I’m not sure, I’m curating a Pinterest board of tattoo designs that I love. But as I can still vividly remember how much my first one hurt, it may be a wee while before I pluck up sufficient courage to go for it!
How do you feel about the tattoos body art debate? Do you agree that they’re body art or are they taboo for you? Would you hire someone with visible tattoos? Do you have any tattoos? Would you like to get any (more) done?
I like tattoos. Some can be very tasteful but others can be very risque – especially some of the sexual ones you see on Tattoo Fixers! So whether I’d ask an employee to cover them would depend on what (and where?) it is. Many of my friends and family members have tattoos; I have one which I got for my 18th birthday. It’s a copy of Faith’s tattoo from Buffy the Vampirw Slayer. One of my favourite characters and I’d wanted it since I was 13! I do have others in mind but keep changing my ideas.
Yes, I agree, I think a risque tattoo might be more of a problem in the workplace (depending on what and where, and what sort of workplace, of course). Love the sound of your tattoo, Kim, that’s great you wanted it for so long and then you got it!
I’m seriously considering getting a small, discrete tattoo, perhaps behind my ear (although, from my albeit very limited knowledge about the subject, I think this might be a rather painful area, due to the thin skin). I definitely think of them more as art than taboo, and I’m what a lot of people would call very conservative-minded! I’m perhaps not so impressed by big, all-over tattoos, as I always wonder what they will look like as the person grows older, and their skin sags. A secret tattoo is much more intimate.
I think that sounds lovely, a secret tattoo just for you and those you choose to share it with. From my – also limited knowledge – I think tattoos over the bone are more painful but if it’s only a small one then the pain will be worth the gain, I’m sure!
This is a very interesting topic. Choice of a tattoo is always very personal and I agree with you that some are just for rebellion. Today tattoo artists are seen as real artists, and some really are. I think it is unfair to discriminate against someone who has visible tattoos, I would not have doubt on hiring. thanks for sharing, you gave me room to reflect
Absolutely, tattoos are a very personal choice, whatever the reason behind them. And yes, I agree, tattoo artists are real artists, some of the designs you see are simply breathtaking – thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed this post 🙂
I have a couple of small tattoos and I adore them – they all have meanings behind the. The most visible is the one on my wrist but I’d hate to think an employer wouldn’t hire me because of it – even though I know many wouldn’t! My husband isn’t a fan of tattoos and he wasn’t best thrilled when I got two more after the “just the one” 😂 I agree with you in that I’m not sure about heavy tattoo coverage, although I certainly wouldn’t discriminate someone with it. Thanks for sharing!
That’s so lovely to read – I think the visibility is more of an issue with professional services, which tend to be more traditional. Although the LinkedIn article was in relation to a kindergarten teacher in France so…!
Very interesting post ! I’d love to get tattoos, I already have few ideas but honestly my family is pretty much against, especially my mom and my grandma. They still think that tattoos are related to sins and rebellion, which is kinda sad..
Ah, that’s a shame but hopefully you’ll be able to get what you want done in future. They might come around and see it as beautiful too, you never know!
This was a very interesting read! I am definitely on the side of I love tattoos. I am definitely attracted to men that have the sleeve done, I don’t know why but I just love them 😂 I personally haven’t had one yet, but I was supposed to go before lockdown and now I just haven’t. But I know what I want and so hopefully will book it in soon 😊
Oh, that’s a shame you’ve had to postpone it but hopefully you’ll be able to book in again soon – how exciting, something to really look forward to! 🙂
I think we are past the point of the being taboo generally but I do think they are still frowned upon in the professional world.
I do love them myself and have two small ones. I would have a lot more if they didn’t hurt so damn much! I am such a wimp. I would love one for Rob and the kids that was significant and beautiful.
I remember finding out that my Grandad had a Navy tattoo. He never showed it off as he was so far from the tattoo type. But just before he died, he was wearing a short sleeve shirt (He was a long shirt and suit jacket type of man!) and I just caught a glimpse, I was a bit in awe!
No you’re not a wimp, they HURT! I think your idea of a family-related one is beautiful, Claire, so special. And your Grandad sounds very cool – understated and elegant but with hidden depths. What a lovely memory to treasure. x
I love tattoos. I have 8 so far and definitely want more. Most of mine are hidden except my two wrist tattoos and my forearm tattoo. I think really well done ones are just like artwork 🙂 xx
I completely agree, I think there are some really beautiful designs out there, definitely body art xx
I have 2 tattoos which I loved when I was younger but I don’t like as much now. I was only 17/18 when I got them so wish someone had told me to wait a little longer. Some people have the most beautiful art on their bodies but I’m done with my two!
Each to their own I think!
Rosie
Ah, that’s such a shame – perhaps you could have them reworked, a la Tattoo Fixers? Look on it as a new opportunity? 🙂
I don’t have tattoos because I’m too scared of needles. I had 2 in mind, but none of them would have been big or visible. With the workspace is still tricky, isn’t it? It depends on the brand the employees represent and their job. I wouldn’t hire someone to interact with customers who are not similar to them, as in, if I would hire someone for a new edgy fashion brand, a tattoo would be an advantage, but a huge disadvantage if the brand would be bought by middle class women in their 60s or 70s. I don’t see that as discrimination, but as choosing the right person for the brand. Also, if it’s not a customer-facing job, it makes no difference if the employee has tattoos or not.
I think you’ve described that perfectly. It’s about knowing your brand and your what your ideal client(s) will be comfortable with. But yes, if it’s not customer-facing (catering, professional services, for example) then tattoos shouldn’t make any difference. Thank you for your comment.
I have always wanted a tattoo but I want something that’s “me” and original and I just haven’t come up with the idea yet… but someday….
Pinterest is a GREAT source of inspiration!
I don’t have a tattoo but seeing tattoos on other people doesn’t bother me. It’s kind of like their personal body art and there’s no reason why they shouldn’t get tattoos if they want one! A great post Lisa x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Thank you, Lucy, that’s so good to hear – and yes to more personal body art! x
I actually love tattoos! I think it’s a great way of expressing oneself. Although I am not about covering myself top to bottom I do have two tattoos and I am very proud of them 🙂 A bit like what you said but who are we to judge others and what they like 🙂
I also love how you included so much history into this! I didn’t realise that tattoos went back that far.
Ashleigh
That’s so good to hear, I think we should be proud of our body art, it’s our choice and our body after all. Glad you enjoyed the history lesson, haha! x
I don’t have a tattoo and as an image consultant I advice my clients to stick to ones that can be hidden with clothing. But I do appreciate tattoos as a form of art and love to hear people’s stories on how they decided to have one.
Yes, I can quite understand that but hidden ones can be lovely 🙂
I love tattoos. I have always told myself that I’d get a tattoo to celebrate selling my first novel but as that hasn’t happened yet, I am –to date–sans body art! Hm…maybe I’d better get back to work here! (ha)
Fun post, Lisa. Thanks.
Haha, that did make me chuckle, Sue, glad you enjoyed it!
I absolutely LOVE tattoos. I totally think they’re a work of art. HOWEVER, I do also think that you can just get a tattoo just because you like the look of it. I don’t necessarily think that every tattoo has to have a deep meaning to it! I only have one and I’d like more. But I’m a bit of a wuss pain wise haha!
Oh yes, I agree, sometimes tattoos are just for fun – albeit rather painful fun, haha. I’m definitely with you on this one 🙂 x
I think tattoos are art, especially because there’s so much design involved. And I definitely see tattooist as an artist, it’s a skill that takes so much patience to master! I don’t have any but I can certainly appreciate how they are like art on skin.
Anika
Art on skin – what a lovely way of phrasing it, that’s beautiful!
I like tattoos that are in places other than the face and as long as there is not too many of them. Some are very beautiful and really are works of art. Others are not appealing to me, but that can be said of any type of art form. I do wonder as these youthful bodies age if some of these tattoos will not appear as artful. I have also known women who have had them removed as they become mothers stating that it isn’t something they wish to have any longer in their new role.
I think that’s a good point: how will they look on aged skin. Certainly the few I’ve seen on older friends look good but it’s something to consider for sure.
Such an interesting post!
I have many tattoos myself including on my feet, ankle, upper arm and a half sleeve. I will definitely be getting more in the future and I’ve designed the big ones myself and plan to create many more ☺️
Love Lozza x
Oh that’s amazing that you’ve designed your own – a very personal body art touch! x
Ooh what a fascinating topic! I don’t think I’m big on LOADS of tattoos, but that’s a personal what I find to be attractive rather than any judgement on those that want to go that way. I can imagine this really does spark a massive debate. I find it fascinating why people chose certain things though and what it means to them. Great post!
I know what you mean, I’m a huge fan of small discreet ones or at least larger ones that aren’t necessarily on display ALL the time. But they can be really beautiful!
I like tattoos on others but I would never get one myself. I love when people have tattoos which mean something to them, it adds that touch of sentimentality to it! I personally think it’s a shame when companies are prejudice against people who have tattoos, it does not make them any worse at a job than somebody without!x
Yes, that’s right, most tattoos are for personal reasons, which is lovely. And I think it depends on the company too, but I agree with you!
Great post! I have a couple of fairly large tattoos that I had done many years ago. I gave each one a lot of thought before hand. Not only thinking about what I wanted, but where I wanted it and which artist I trusted enough to do a good job. Because of that, I still love my tattoos 20 years later. They signify milestones in my personal and spiritual development and are beautiful works of art.
That’s so lovely to read, that your tattoos are personal milestones. Such a perfect way to celebrate your body art.
This is a very interesting read! Personally, I’m not a big fan of big tattoos but I think small ones are nice and I love how they have personal meanings!
Yes, I’m with you, I’m a fan of smaller tattoos as well – also, they hurt less!
It can be art at some point and type of tattos. However, there are that are just nothing close to art which I don’t recommend haha.
Yes, some are beautiful, some not so much – personal choice, I guess 🙂
I don’t have any tattoos but don’t have a problem if others get them. Some of them are very tasteful and beautiful. I’m not a big fan of full tattoo coverage though.
I prefer smaller, more discreet tattoos as well, but that’s my personal choice.
I love tatoos and this is one of my favorite subjects to talk about! I have two, I got it on my early 20’s, a butterfly and a infinity symbol. I want to get another one for years now, but I have to find a good artist and someone I trust first.
Oh yay, that’s great to hear – I hope you can find a trustworthy tattoo artist in due course for number three!
I am a firm believer of the body art side of this debate and have had the conversation with people many, many times. Personally, I have 4 tattoos right now, all of which are either fully visible or visible at specific times of the year (for example, I have an ankle tattoo that can be seen all summer in crops and shorts, but not when I’m wearing full length pants. The one that tends to get the most attention, however, is the white tiger across the front of my left shoulder and left collarbone as it is visible in almost every outfit I wear to some extent (except turtlenecks/high neck clothing). Personally, I have had at least one job that I know turned down my job application on the basis of my body art. However, I am an online freelancer now, so it’s not something that I would have to worry about.
I’ve seen glimpses of some of your tattoos in photos and they’re beautiful, especially your tiger. I’m sad you were turned down for one job – their loss – but as you say, it’s not something you need to be concerned about now. Let’s embrace our tattoos!
I’d really love to get a tatto. But from where I’m from it’s perceived as rebellious and disrespectful. I’m not sure I’ll ever get one but I do admire tattoos on other people.
Ah, that’s a shame, but thank you for sharing your thoughts.
There has been loads of different discussions on tattoos over the years, hasn’t there? I don’t mind tattoos, and there are some really pretty one, but I have never wanted to have any myself. I don’t think I would be brave enough as I know they hurt haha.
Thanks for sharing!
Aimsy xoxo
Aimsy’s Antics
Oh yes, they hurt, a lot, haha. But I don’t regret mine and I really do want to get another one, just for me 🙂
Hi Lisa. Whilst I don’t have any tattoos I don’t have any objection to other people having them, whether that be a single one discreetly tucked away or a body covered in them. The trouble is (or one of them at least) that many professions are very conservative in their outlook and the way that they expect their employees to look. They may not come straight out and say why, but I suspect that most firms of accountants and solicitors would not employ somebody with a lot of tattoos (rather than consider the person’s abilities they would judge them based on their appearance). Although, to be fair, they may also be thinking that it may be offputting in any face-to-face client meetings. Books and covers!
Books and covers, yes, that’s a brilliant way of describing it! And I think you’re right about professional services too – sadly, I don’t see that changing any time soon though.
I love this post and I love tattoos. I only have one but I hope to have more. But it will obviously be in appropriate places. They are so beautiful and the one I have gives me so much confidence. I can’t wait till covid blows over so I can go to a tattoo shop!
I’m glad you love tattoos too, I hope you can find a good tattoo shop in due course!
I definitely think tattoos are art and love hearing the stories behind people’s tattoos. I personally don’t have any and if I were to get one it would need to be something really significant to me
I love the stories too but I know what you mean. It’s for life so it has to be right.
I love tattoos and have nothing against them, but I think they are also deeply personal. Many of the motorcyclists that come up to visit the overlooks off the Blue Ridge Parkway, which I live near, always have stories to tell behind their snakes and apples and flower tattoos so, if I wear to ever get a tattoo, I would need it to have a story behind it.
My two cents. 🙂
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Yes, you’re right, getting a tattoo is a very personal thing. I’d love to hear some of those motorcyclists’ stories, I bet they’d be fascinating!
I have a tattoo that I got in the spur of the moment during a college spring break road trip on a rainy St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans. I was totally unoriginal and have a small butterfly on my lower right back.
I love it and love that I can keep it hidden in a professional situation.
I’ve had an uncle who had some tattoos from his time in the Navy in the1960s and they did not age well, so that always made me hesitate to get one in a non-private area.
I can’t stand face tattoos and don’t really understand the purpose other than to ensure you will never have a professional job again- but to each his own.
I would actually love to get another, but my husband is against it. No one in his family has had tattoos.
Your butterfly sounds very cute and personal. And I love that your Navy uncle had some tattoos as well, even if they haven’t aged. It’s part of belonging to his club, isn’t it? So many sailors have them, in the Merchant Navy too.
I’m intrigued but I do think a few tattoos is better than a lot of tattoos. But that’s a personal opinion. Would I get one? Maybe, if I think I’ll like something forever but I don’t have any such thing yet 😅
That’s the most important part, you need to be sure before you get inked that you’ll love it for a long time at least!
I love tattoos! I think they can be beautiful pieces of art. I don’t think I’ve ever heard them called body mutilation so find that phrasing interesting. I’ve worked in places where any tattoos had to be covered or you wouldn’t be hired but where I am now they are totally fine.
That’s so good that your workplace are fine with visible tattoos, you are lucky!
I definitely think they are art! I got my first one when I was 18 and I love it still
That’s so good you still love it 🙂
An interesting post and discussion for sure – I believe that people should be able to express themselves in whatever way they see fit, as long as it’s not harming anybody else or doesn’t feature derogatory messages or symbols, I don’t think tattoos should be an issue in any way. I find the idea of traditional tattooing and cultural and religious significance so beautiful. Thanks for sharing your views and opening up this discussion!
Thank you, I completely agree with you. Certain cultural tattoos are extremely beautiful and have so much meaning. I’m glad you enjoyed this post!
I think tattoos are beautiful when done well.
I do however HATE mine. this is probably because it is poorly executed!
Ah, that’s a shame, maybe you could get a re-work or cover up sometime? 🙂
I got one so its not taboo for me. I’m thinking of another one at the base of the neck lol. I don’t have issues with anyone having tat. Though some may have inked most of their skin, it is a personal decision.
Absolutely, tats are a very personal choice – hope you get your new one soon!
I’ve seen some tattoos, that are truly magnificent. Goodness they left me with a mouth drop. But would I personally get one? No, I don’t think it’ll look good on me.
Like you, I can see a certain prince with one or two.
You could always get a small discreet one that only you and your loved one can see though!