Most people see a tattoo before they know the story behind it. They might notice the artwork, the placement, the colors, or the amount of coverage someone has. But after years of tattooing, I've learned that there is often so much more to a tattoo than what you see on the surface.
To me, tattoos are a way of collecting pieces of your life. Every tattoo can represent a different chapter, a memory, a person, a feeling, or even a version of yourself that existed at a particular moment in time. Some tattoos have incredibly deep meanings, while others are simply something you thought was beautiful and wanted to wear forever. I think both are equally special!
Tattoo by Neon
Tattoos tell stories, even when we don't know what those stories are. One of my favorite things about being a tattoo artist is hearing why someone wants a particular design. Sometimes it's a memorial for someone they've lost. Sometimes it's a reminder of something they've overcome. Other times, it's inspired by a childhood memory, a favorite animal, a place they've traveled, or something they've always felt connected to.
I've had the privilege of listening to so many personal stories throughout my career. Some are happy, some are heartbreaking, and some are stories that people might not share with anyone else. Being trusted with those moments is something I never take for granted.
I also think there is something wonderful about getting tattooed, simply because you love the artwork. Not every tattoo needs a long explanation or a significant life event attached to it. Sometimes you just really love a moth, a flower, a skull, or an unusual little creature. That's reason enough!
Your tattoos don't have to match your life perfectly. They just have to feel like you. I often think of a person's tattoo collection almost like an art gallery. Every piece is different, and some might not seem to belong together at first glance. But when you look at the collection as a whole, you begin to see the personality behind it.
Our interests change. Our experiences change. Our tastes evolve. The artwork we loved ten years ago might be completely different from what we love today. I think that's part of the beauty of being tattooed. Your collection can grow and change alongside you.
Tattoo by Neon
There is also something special about the permanence of tattooing. We live in a world where so much is temporary. Photographs get buried in our phones, clothing trends come and go, and things that once felt incredibly important can eventually become distant memories.
Tattoos are different. They become part of us. A tattoo can take you back to a particular time in your life, remind you of someone you miss, or make you smile when you catch a glimpse of it years later. Sometimes the meaning even changes as you get older. A design that once represented one thing might eventually remind you of something entirely different.
I think that's one of the most beautiful things about collecting tattoos. You aren't just collecting artwork. You're collecting little reminders of the person you've been and the person you're becoming.
The artwork itself is worth appreciating, too. As an artist, I love seeing the incredible variety of tattoo styles and approaches. Black and grey realism, delicate illustrative work, bold traditional designs, colorful imagery, ornamental details, and everything in between.
Tattooing is an art form with such a long and interesting history, and there is always something new to discover. I love looking through tattoo art books, studying different artists, and finding inspiration in artwork that approaches the medium in an entirely different way.
If you're someone who loves tattoos, I highly recommend keeping a little collection of art books and references around. They can be wonderful sources of inspiration, even if you're not an artist yourself.
A few books worth exploring:
One thing I always encourage is taking care of your tattoos long after the healing process is finished. Keeping your skin moisturized and protecting healed tattoos from excessive sun exposure are simple ways to care for your skin and the artwork on it.
A few everyday essentials worth keeping around include a good moisturizer and a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen for healed tattoos.
Dr. Bronner's - Organic Magic Balm (Baby Unscented, 2 Ounce)
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, 5 Fl oz
And if you're anything like me, you might also enjoy keeping a journal or sketchbook filled with tattoo ideas, things that inspire you, and designs you'd love to collect someday.
Vanrtto Hardcover Square Sketch Book, Mixed Media
At the end of the day, I don't think there is a right or wrong way to collect tattoos. You don't need a full sleeve, a cohesive theme, or a meaningful story behind every piece. You don't need to follow trends or explain your choices to anyone.
Your body is your own canvas, and your collection should reflect you.
Whether you have one small tattoo that means the world to you or you're covered in artwork from head to toe, I hope you continue finding pieces that make you happy every time you look at them!
And if you're still thinking about your next tattoo, take your time, find an artist whose work you genuinely love, and enjoy the process. There is no rush to finish collecting.
After all, the best collections are the ones that grow with you. 🖤
Love,
Neon
The Neon Lady
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