National Tattoo Day

I am a canvas of my experiences, my story is etched in lines and shading, and you can read it on my arms, my legs, my shoulders, and my stomach.

Kat Von D

There is something about permanently etching a story into your flesh that draws the heart and inspires the mind. Tattoos tell a tale of who we were, who we are, and sometimes of just where we’re going. They’ve served important roles in cultures all around the world, and continue to have evolving meanings in our modern age. National Tattoo Day celebrates the august history of skin art and its ever-evolving place in society.

History of National Tattoo Day

The history of National Tattoo Day is as ancient as the tattoo itself, with examples being found far into prehistoric times preserved in mummified flesh. It is entirely possible that tattoos are even older than the oldest physical skin evidence we’ve discovered, as tools that clearly seem to be made for giving tattoos have been found through archaeology.

In Egypt, women were the primary canvas for tattoos and they were used for all purposes you can imagine. From indications of religion and status, or as punishment, and even to help the healing process. In China tattoos were largely held to be a practice of barbarism, and are frequently associated with folk heroes and criminals, an association brought into practice when men who were convicts would have the kanji for “criminal” tattooed on their face.

In the modern world the story of the tattoo is just as varied and convoluted. People are fascinated with tattoos, and more people are getting them every year, yet workplaces tend to say that they must be covered in order for you to work. That’s supposing that having one doesn’t cost you the job to begin with. National Tattoo Day raises awareness about tattoos and their ancient and respected history and seeks to change the view the world has for them.

How to celebrate National Tattoo Day

One of the best ways to celebrate National Tattoo Day is to commemorate it with a tattoo of your very own! Have you ever considered getting a tattoo and just what that tattoo may be? Do you already have one and want more? Is your sleeve not yet complete or your back piece not fully colored in? All of these are excellent reasons to get out and see your favorite tattoo artist in celebration of National Tattoo Day.