By Kanaan Rhodes
For me, tattoos enhance my perception of my appearance. I got my first tattoo when I was 18 years old. It was a simple design, but it started a lifelong journey to decorate my body — now, I have more than 50. The feeling of empowerment that comes from getting a new tattoo is just one of the many reasons why I keep going back for more. Tattoos are a way for me to express myself and show the world my personality through bright colors and intricate designs.
I have always loved the way tattoos look when they are done professionally and tastefully. There are many different reasons I get them besides just the aesthetic of them. Sometimes, it’s because I want to celebrate a milestone, like my Redken tattoo on my right wrist celebrating becoming a national Redken artist. Sometimes, it’s to remember important people in my life, like my “chin-up” tattoo, which is in memory of a late friend’s last words to me. Sometimes, I go for absolutely no other reason than to get a new piece of art from a favorite tattoo artist.
One of my favorites is the portrait of my cat, Spock. The tattoo itself is beautiful, but it’s also one of my favorites because he has been there for me through so many life events over the past nine years, including moving to a different state and back, opening a small business, and achieving a few life goals.
Another favorite is my grim reaper. The message around it says, “A life wasted is worse than death.” I really try to live by that. We are given this amazing life to be able to achieve so much and have the opportunities to do so many things and make a difference. So, why waste that opportunity?
I also love my knee tattoo. It’s a panther with blue spots. Honestly, this is one of my favorites because it’s a reminder that if I can get through a knee tattoo, I feel like I can do anything in life.
People can be heavily tattooed and be successful. We don’t have to be cookie-cutter and fit in a certain stereotype to make a positive impact in our community. You can still be professional, run a business and be educated while having tattoos.
Just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to express yourself in your own way and break free of the limited beliefs society has learned along the way. As long as you’re not hurting anyone and it gives you the ability to love yourself, do it.
When it comes to getting tattoos, make sure you do thorough research — not just on the tattoo shop, but also on the artist and their specialty. There are many different styles of tattoos, so it’s important to find someone who is a good fit for your specific style and preferences. I also recommend staying loyal to your tattoo artist and building a relationship with them. My tattoo artist is Roger, the owner of a tattoo shop in Carbondale, Ill., who has done most of my work over the past 13 years.
