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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:14:26 PM

Title: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:14:26 PM
When you see a person with tattoo's walking toward you in the street, sat in a bar, in a shop.....what are your immediate thoughts/perceptions of that person if you are non-tattooed?
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: donoreo on August 11, 2013, 10:17:12 PM
Depends on the person and the rest of the "package".  If they look like, say Russian mob, then just keep walking. If they are some 20-something who is just following the trend like so many other 20-somethings, then I mock them silently in my head.   Personally, I find tattoos repulsive.  I had a girlfriend once who wanted one, got one, and lost a boyfriend. 
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:54:03 PM
Quote from: donoreo on August 11, 2013, 10:17:12 PM
Depends on the person and the rest of the "package".  If they look like, say Russian mob, then just keep walking. If they are some 20-something who is just following the trend like so many other 20-somethings, then I mock them silently in my head.   Personally, I find tattoos repulsive.  I had a girlfriend once who wanted one, got one, and lost a boyfriend.

Thank you for your honest response. It's an interesting topic to me, because as soon as I got the tattoo on my neck, a couple of friends said it made me look like a gangster. In fact it's anything but, I have the Chinese for "Family" tattooed there, to symbolise my faith in the family unit. I have other tattoo's, but again, these all represent a meaning. But the initial response interested me, so I thought I'd throw it out there, hence this topic.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: ABERS on August 12, 2013, 07:46:10 AM
Quote from: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:14:26 PM
When you see a person with tattoo's walking toward you in the street, sat in a bar, in a shop.....what are your immediate thoughts/perceptions of that person if you are non-tattooed?

A dedicated follower of fashion.

What do you think if you are tattooed?
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Jediboy on August 12, 2013, 08:03:45 AM
Yes and no.

I have tattoos but they are covered except when I'm swimming. Personally I have never hd any negative comments/behaviour.
I have however seen stereotyping towards others with tattoos and also in the media.
The problem with stereotyping is that's its often misguided, but we all it.

I know that tattoos are not for everyone, and they can have the Marmite effect, so not everyone will like them.
I do believe that people should not be judged just because they have tattoos.
Just my thoughts.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 08:07:17 AM
Quote from: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:54:03 PM
Quote from: donoreo on August 11, 2013, 10:17:12 PM
Depends on the person and the rest of the "package".  If they look like, say Russian mob, then just keep walking. If they are some 20-something who is just following the trend like so many other 20-somethings, then I mock them silently in my head.   Personally, I find tattoos repulsive.  I had a girlfriend once who wanted one, got one, and lost a boyfriend.

Thank you for your honest response. It's an interesting topic to me, because as soon as I got the tattoo on my neck, a couple of friends said it made me look like a gangster. In fact it's anything but, I have the Chinese for "Family" tattooed there, to symbolise my faith in the family unit. I have other tattoo's, but again, these all represent a meaning. But the initial response interested me, so I thought I'd throw it out there, hence this topic.

Are you sure it says 'family'? Have you had it checked by a 'real' Chinese? I've heard horror stories about Chinese tattoos, that said something totally different.

I'm not keen on tattoos myself, even though I admire the skills of some tattooists. It's a generation thing, I suppose. In 'my' day 'normal, everyday' people did not have tattoos.

I know it is very fashionable these days, and even middle aged ladies have tattoos. Daughter (who is in her mid twenties) has a small tattoo on, or near, her wrist.

My immediate reaction is the same, I think, as when I see someone with a Mohican, or a really over the top piece of clothing or jewellery: if the 'rest' of the person looks okay, no problem. Like Don, if he/she looks intimidating, I look the other way.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Jediboy on August 12, 2013, 08:14:59 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 08:07:17 AM
Quote from: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:54:03 PM
Quote from: donoreo on August 11, 2013, 10:17:12 PM
Depends on the person and the rest of the "package".  If they look like, say Russian mob, then just keep walking. If they are some 20-something who is just following the trend like so many other 20-somethings, then I mock them silently in my head.   Personally, I find tattoos repulsive.  I had a girlfriend once who wanted one, got one, and lost a boyfriend.

Thank you for your honest response. It's an interesting topic to me, because as soon as I got the tattoo on my neck, a couple of friends said it made me look like a gangster. In fact it's anything but, I have the Chinese for "Family" tattooed there, to symbolise my faith in the family unit. I have other tattoo's, but again, these all represent a meaning. But the initial response interested me, so I thought I'd throw it out there, hence this topic.

Are you sure it says 'family'? Have you had it checked by a 'real' Chinese? I've heard horror stories about Chinese tattoos, that said something totally different.

I'm not keen on tattoos myself, even though I admire the skills of some tattooists. It's a generation thing, I suppose. In 'my' day 'normal, everyday' people did not have tattoos.

I know it is very fashionable these days, and even middle aged ladies have tattoos. Daughter (who is in her mid twenties) has a small tattoo on, or near, her wrist.

My immediate reaction is the same, I think, as when I see someone with a Mohican, or a really over the top piece of clothing or jewellery: if the 'rest' of the person looks okay, no problem. Like Don, if he/she looks intimidating, I look the other way.

You'd love me then. I occasionally have a mohican too!!! But only on my days off. :tup:
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Mick on August 12, 2013, 08:28:38 AM
I don't have any tattoos, and don't have a problem with people that do.  There's one guy I see walking around town quite frequently though, and he's tattooed from head to foot, even his face is covered by them.  Methinks that's taking things a little too far IMO.   ;)
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 08:34:30 AM
Quote from: Jediboy on August 12, 2013, 08:14:59 AM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 08:07:17 AM
Quote from: Matthew on August 11, 2013, 10:54:03 PM
Quote from: donoreo on August 11, 2013, 10:17:12 PM
Depends on the person and the rest of the "package".  If they look like, say Russian mob, then just keep walking. If they are some 20-something who is just following the trend like so many other 20-somethings, then I mock them silently in my head.   Personally, I find tattoos repulsive.  I had a girlfriend once who wanted one, got one, and lost a boyfriend.

Thank you for your honest response. It's an interesting topic to me, because as soon as I got the tattoo on my neck, a couple of friends said it made me look like a gangster. In fact it's anything but, I have the Chinese for "Family" tattooed there, to symbolise my faith in the family unit. I have other tattoo's, but again, these all represent a meaning. But the initial response interested me, so I thought I'd throw it out there, hence this topic.

Are you sure it says 'family'? Have you had it checked by a 'real' Chinese? I've heard horror stories about Chinese tattoos, that said something totally different.

I'm not keen on tattoos myself, even though I admire the skills of some tattooists. It's a generation thing, I suppose. In 'my' day 'normal, everyday' people did not have tattoos.

I know it is very fashionable these days, and even middle aged ladies have tattoos. Daughter (who is in her mid twenties) has a small tattoo on, or near, her wrist.

My immediate reaction is the same, I think, as when I see someone with a Mohican, or a really over the top piece of clothing or jewellery: if the 'rest' of the person looks okay, no problem. Like Don, if he/she looks intimidating, I look the other way.

You'd love me then. I occasionally have a mohican too!!! But only on my days off. :tup:

I'm sure I'd love you! Some Mohicans are breathtaking. Same as the vibrant hair some girls have these days . I photographed quite a few in the streets, but now I come to think of it, there seem to be more girls with vibrant hair around, than men with Mohicans. Are they going out of fashion?
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Jediboy on August 12, 2013, 08:39:16 AM
Yes, they probably are going out of fashion. I do get some funny looks, but thats OK, I can see why. I understand that I can be seen as aggressive, but that perception doesn't reflect my character.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: SimonW on August 12, 2013, 09:11:43 AM
My 16 year old grand-daughter's natural dark brown hair has lately been through the mill - various shades and combinations of purple, red, green etc. Last week it was relatively normal blonde - and it looked terrible. This week it's flourescent pink, and this actually suits her and looks good.  (I do wonder what long term damage it's doing to her hair though.)
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: 2Beers on August 12, 2013, 10:57:39 AM
Quote from: SimonW on August 12, 2013, 09:11:43 AM
My 16 year old grand-daughter's natural dark brown hair has lately been through the mill - various shades and combinations of purple, red, green etc. Last week it was relatively normal blonde - and it looked terrible. This week it's flourescent pink, and this actually suits her and looks good.  (I do wonder what long term damage it's doing to her hair though.)

I may be old fashioned but I still think first impressions are everything and stereotype a persons character. I have always thought that the young girls of today that get tattoo's etc are unaware of the effect they can have in later life, E.G when looking for employment etc.

Just my tuppence worth
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 11:39:03 AM
Thought these might go nicely with this subject.

Took this candid of a woman doing stretch exercises at the Winchester Hat Fair.

(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Stretch_exercises_res.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14132&fullsize=1)


Southampton is full of Rhinos this summer. This is my favourite, because of the Mohican.

(http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11140/normal_Stylo_rhino_res.jpg) (http://cameracraniums.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=14133&fullsize=1)
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: alexharrison101 on August 12, 2013, 12:01:04 PM
i have several tattoos, but the majority have a meaning. my partner and i have the same vine tattoo on our side (mine on my left, she on her right - mirrored) so symbolise our relationship and link to a reading at our civil partnership ceremony about two trees becoming one over time (not as cheesy as it sounds, i promise!). i also have the phrase "per ardua ad astra" on my arm, which roughly translates as "through adversity to the stars" to symbolise my struggles to get through hard times and reach a more positive future. i have some tribal designs on my back that were done when i was younger, which to me are a reminder of being young and impetuous, but even they had significance at the time, and i can appreciate them for that - each one marked a particular event of significance to me.

i know tattoos aren't everyone's cup of tea, but you'd never know i have mine unless i choose to show them to you. i wouldn't ever get one that would be visible at work, because i work in a school and don't think that it is necessarily appropriate...

just my opinion, as ever!
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: wavemachine on August 12, 2013, 05:09:48 PM
I do remember Jo Brand saying something like "Why bother getting a tatoo just get a T-Shirt that says I have been to prison";)

Seriously though it really depends, there are people who like a tatoo somewhere covered, others who are total body art fanatics right through to aggresive nutters I think most people can tell which category they fall into. I personally have nothing against tatoos it is like anything ultimately a personal choice, I choose not to have one because it is parmanent and also because I hate needle in other works iam a wuss;)

With regards to stereotyping it depends on the current fashion, I remember when grade 1 & 2 hair cuts were only worn by people in the army who were respected and thugs who were not, similarly mohicans or brightly coloured hair was the same but these days no one takes much notice, the same with leather jackets, denim jackets etc.

I have been wrong though there is a guy in a town near us covered head to tow in tatoos, piercings etc and people give him a wide birth yet having spoken to him he is one of the most pleasant, kindest  and caring individuals I have ever met and to be honest taught me how wrong you can be on first impressions!
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on August 12, 2013, 07:06:49 PM
Nice to see it sparked a nice debate and lots of honest opinions. I agree, we all go on first impressions, it's part of what makes us human. Reinardina, don't worry, I researched the design for several days using authentic sites that teach Chinese, the artist who tattooed me confirmed it too, haha....would be a bit embarrassing to go around with "egg fried rice" or "lawnmower" permanently on your skin  :D ;D
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 07:22:56 PM
Quote from: Matthew on August 12, 2013, 07:06:49 PM
Nice to see it sparked a nice debate and lots of honest opinions. I agree, we all go on first impressions, it's part of what makes us human. Reinardina, don't worry, I researched the design for several days using authentic sites that teach Chinese, the artist who tattooed me confirmed it too, haha....would be a bit embarrassing to go around with "egg fried rice" or "lawnmower" permanently on your skin  :D ;D

If it was lawnmower, Mick might ban you from this site!
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Oldboy on August 12, 2013, 07:59:03 PM
Quote from: Reinardina on August 12, 2013, 07:22:56 PM
Quote from: Matthew on August 12, 2013, 07:06:49 PM
Nice to see it sparked a nice debate and lots of honest opinions. I agree, we all go on first impressions, it's part of what makes us human. Reinardina, don't worry, I researched the design for several days using authentic sites that teach Chinese, the artist who tattooed me confirmed it too, haha....would be a bit embarrassing to go around with "egg fried rice" or "lawnmower" permanently on your skin  :D ;D

If it was lawnmower, Mick might ban you from this site!

:2funny: :2funny: :2funny:
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: spinner on August 12, 2013, 11:04:20 PM
When I was a young man, Jo Brand's viewpoint was prevalent. I've come to accept it's entirely different now a days. Both my kids and their friends have tats, they're all 30 somethings. My prevalent thought however is, "you'll be sorry when you're old". Oddly though the other day I heard a radio ad for laser tattoo removal, so I wonder if the trend is going off.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: ABERS on August 13, 2013, 07:15:01 AM
Does anybody have body piercing, that other form of self proclamation that seems to be designed either to shock or throw airport scanners into mayhem.

A parcel delvery driver called a couple of months ago with what looked like two bath plugs inserted into his ear lobes plus a variety of metal objects inserted into various parts of his face.  :o

What's that all about?   :-\
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Oldboy on August 13, 2013, 09:11:00 AM
Quote from: ABERS on August 13, 2013, 07:15:01 AM
Does anybody have body piercing, that other form of self proclamation that seems to be designed either to shock or throw airport scanners into mayhem.

A parcel delvery driver called a couple of months ago with what looked like two bath plugs inserted into his ear lobes plus a variety of metal objects inserted into various parts of his face.  :o

What's that all about?   :-\

He's into heavy metal!  :P
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Cabbyjohn on August 13, 2013, 12:15:56 PM
I once saw a hippy type couple, mid 30s on Piccadilly railway station Manchester. Apart from being very heavily tattooed,  they both had dozens of rings piercing their top and bottom lips, ears eyes and nose's. They looked hideous. I would hate to think what they will look like if and when they have all the rings removed.   ???
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Markulous on August 13, 2013, 01:53:22 PM
Can't say I'm keen nowadays and am always reminded of Helen Mirren's comment on the tat she has on her hand: "Had it done when I was significantly drunk and, now everyone's got one, am embarrassed by it". I used to like them when they were unusual and interesting but bored by them now
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: alexharrison101 on August 13, 2013, 04:56:40 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 13, 2013, 07:15:01 AM
Does anybody have body piercing, that other form of self proclamation that seems to be designed either to shock or throw airport scanners into mayhem.

A parcel delvery driver called a couple of months ago with what looked like two bath plugs inserted into his ear lobes plus a variety of metal objects inserted into various parts of his face.  :o

What's that all about?   :-\

I have a lip piercing and used to have my eyebrow and ears x 2 in each...lip piercing is the only one I wear any more and I take it out for work.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on August 13, 2013, 06:04:54 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 13, 2013, 07:15:01 AM
Does anybody have body piercing, that other form of self proclamation that seems to be designed either to shock or throw airport scanners into mayhem.

A parcel delvery driver called a couple of months ago with what looked like two bath plugs inserted into his ear lobes plus a variety of metal objects inserted into various parts of his face.  :o

What's that all about?   :-\

I hope his next delivery isn't a consignment of fridge magnets...... :tup:
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Jediboy on August 13, 2013, 08:39:48 PM
I'm hoping o get anther tattoo soon. It'll be discreet again, work on wife not too keen on anything too visible. Got some ideas so hopefully not too long now.
I think that tattooing as almost addictive, and people with one tattoo will likely get another.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: alexharrison101 on August 14, 2013, 12:10:31 PM
Quote from: Jediboy on August 13, 2013, 08:39:48 PM
I'm hoping o get anther tattoo soon. It'll be discreet again, work on wife not too keen on anything too visible. Got some ideas so hopefully not too long now.
I think that tattooing as almost addictive, and people with one tattoo will likely get another.

i'd agree with the addictive nature of tattooing. i'm already eyeing up my next one - again, like you, it will be in a discreet place.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: ABERS on August 14, 2013, 12:27:24 PM
Out of interest , how much does a tattoo cost?

Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: alexharrison101 on August 14, 2013, 12:29:55 PM
depends on the skill/reputation of the tattooist, size and amount of colour. some do price by time taken too. mine have ranged between £25 and £60. for the same ones i was quoted £120-155 at a different tattooist, so it really can vary...
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Oldboy on August 14, 2013, 04:57:11 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 14, 2013, 12:27:24 PM
Out of interest , how much does a tattoo cost?

Are you thinking of having one done?  :-* :legit:
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on August 14, 2013, 07:07:44 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 14, 2013, 12:27:24 PM
Out of interest , how much does a tattoo cost?

Agree with the above, depends on design/size/amount of ink that it will take/artist etc. It's also to be noted that having a tattoo done by a really good artist/parlour has the same effect as a good hair cut, eg, you'll always go back to the same Barber if you like the cut. I have always returned to the same Parlour as they done such a good job of my first. My first cost me £80 (quite large, but simple design), second cost me £70 (medium with colour and fancy writing), third cost me £40 (very simple design and quite small), fourth cost me £170 as it is a very detailed dragon and my latest cost £70.....
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Jediboy on August 14, 2013, 07:35:44 PM
I paid £70 an hour for mine. With a reputable artist. Not cheap, especially when they took 6 hours each, but worth it for me.
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: ABERS on August 14, 2013, 10:16:36 PM
Quote from: Matthew on August 14, 2013, 07:07:44 PM
Quote from: ABERS on August 14, 2013, 12:27:24 PM
Out of interest , how much does a tattoo cost?

Agree with the above, depends on design/size/amount of ink that it will take/artist etc. It's also to be noted that having a tattoo done by a really good artist/parlour has the same effect as a good hair cut, eg, you'll always go back to the same Barber if you like the cut. I have always returned to the same Parlour as they done such a good job of my first. My first cost me £80 (quite large, but simple design), second cost me £70 (medium with colour and fancy writing), third cost me £40 (very simple design and quite small), fourth cost me £170 as it is a very detailed dragon and my latest cost £70.....

Mmmm.   ??? I'll stick to hair cuts. That's while I've still got some and then it's just ear and nose trims. :doh:
Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: ABERS on October 01, 2013, 09:19:54 AM
Was reminded of this thread when I read this. May be of interest to all you 'inky' people.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-24296713

Title: Re: Are tattoed people stereotyped?
Post by: Matthew on October 01, 2013, 07:01:50 PM
An interesting article indeed, also the part where it says most folks who get their first typically wait 4+ years for their second. I must confess, I waited a year after my first, less after my second. Was a year before I got my 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively after that. For me, when I got my first, it gave me this ego boost, a confidence I never felt before.....It's hard to put into words, but I was always quiet and shy as a lad and afraid/avoided any situations where attention may be on me. It was like this well into my 20's. I still am shy to a degree, but no way near as bad as I once was and social situations no longer bother me. But every time I get a new "ink", I get this boost with it. Rightly or wrongly, but it makes me feel like a new person each time. It's also made me realise that since my first which is easily hidden by a t-shirt sleeve, all my subsequent ones are far from discreet a trend which I have an urge to continue. Thank for posting this article.