While tattoos date back over 5,200 years, the purposes of tattoos have changed. In 2013, Spokane’s tattoo shops offer a variety of different options, as well as prices for the newest marking on a person’s body.
“Tattoos can be a personal expression or a hidden meaning,” said Jeremy Corns, the owner of Anchored Art Tattoo and piercing.
“Like, for a loved one.” Some people get tattoos for a family member who was important to them or for a person who has impacted their lives, some to remember important event; tattoos are printed for a variety of reasons.
“I guess some people think of tattoos as a rite of passage when they’re a certain age or they’re just putting a mark on their body to remind them of this time in their life. Everyone gets a tattoo for a different reason, “said Tom Morris at All American Tattoo.
While everyone has their own opinion as to what is valuable in a tattoo, finding the right artist can also be a factor to take into consideration. To research your artist in advance is considered beneficial and can help keep your skin clear of any mistakes or art that is not to your standard.
“I do custom art so everything is different and I’m my own boss and I just get to be creative every day. and thats why I love my job.” said Patrick Ethington, owner and tattoo artist of Shamrock Tattoo.
To see an artist’s work, portfolios are available at tattoo shops to view the work a particular artist has done. If someone was looking to getting a tattoo, they might want to consider talking with their potential artist and relating with the person to be sure the artist understands your needs.
“I was always into art and I was excited to get my first tattoo and after I did I just knew then that I wanted to learn how to be a tattoo artist,” said Jeremy Corns, owner and tattoo artist of Anchored art Tattoo and Piercing.
Tattoos, like other fashion also go through seasons. What is popular now in tattoo’s has not always been popular. Text, roses, custom work, these are all part of this past year’s season.
“I do a lot of roses in my work,” said Corns.
“Every tattoo is different so it basically depends on the year. The popular tattoos in the 1990s were sunflowers and dolphins. For a while it was stars but I do custom work so it’s not all the same,” said Ethington.
For those getting a new tattoo, be sure to look at an artist’s portfolio, along with comparing prices.
“If you’re someone who is looking to get their first tattoo done I would advise them to look at portfolios, get to know the artist a little to see if you get along,” said Corns. “The cost is based on time, we do $100 per hour with a $80 minimum.”
Kimberlie Barton