Through the years, society has been a little critique on physical appearance of the community people. It does not only include natural features, but the clothes and other stuffs as well. Here in my dear country— Philippines, a colorful background about tattoos and piercings is found. Let me share a brief description.

Behold, let us rewind and have some trivias

Apo Whang-od, a famous tattoo artist from Buscalan, Tinglayan, Philippines—hailed to be the oldest mambabatok ( Kalinga tattooing ). Though she is considered to be the last mambabatok, the tradition still continues up to present as she trains the younger generation of their family to also practice Kalinga tattooing as a part of their ethnic group's culture.

(Unfortunately, I cannot insert a picture of her to avoid photo grabbing issues. Nevertheless, you can still check it out and search for yourself if you are too interested.)

Going back, as we browse and learn from the trivia stated on the first part, we can tell that tattoo plays a role on our culture as Filipinos. It is a symbol of braveness. If I can also reminisce, my favorite part on history subject is about the cultute of tribes before the colonization happened. Each time I see people, especially women who have tattoos, I admire them more. They look so strong and fierce.

However, when the new generations started their era, it seems like the tradition stopped. Though for the tribes, good thing that they have sustain it. There are a lot of people that oppose people who have tattoos. Others go too far, as according to them, tattoos are sins and not art. They treat the tattooed ones like criminals.

As a sister of a tattoo artist, I grew up appreciating the beauty in it. I have witnessed how my brother is passionate on what he does. From lining to shading, I am completely amazed how an ink can give an emphasis about your soul— revealing who you really are. I always wanted to be with every single session he attends. There was a time when curiousity attacked me, and I raid his tools. The needle looks so painful— my desire to have a tattoo has gone for a moment. But I have realized, the pain may hurt us, but after all, it creates permanent rainbow that will make us happy sooner.

My father is also a huge fan of tattoos. He has his back covered with a taurus, that was tattoed by my brother. It was one of my brother's achievement. Aside from its a time consuming work, he made my father proud. I can tell that our family is a fan of tattoos. That is why I took this as an opportunity to ask to them if I can also have a tattoo as well. The answer is too obvious, isn't it? But the condition is, not now. I also understand why. Perhaps, when the time is right, they will allow me to make decisions on my own.

Currently, I am still a minor. I really wanted to have a tattoo as soon as possible, but my parents will only allow me when I reach legality. I am too excited to have my first ever design, and I have a long time to think for it. I am planning to join campaigns against the stigma. Tattoo is art. And not an indication of being a bad person. How I wish, people will also acknowledge tattoo the way I do. One day, I will be able to share to the world that this culture is for everyone. Not limited to my race, but for all over the people around the globe. We must appreciate and find the beauty in it.

Another thing, salute to all tattoo artists out there. It is never easy to make body as a canvass for your masterpieces. You all are created with graceful talents, and luckily, able to share the skills that you are blessed with. Continue doing the passion and dedication towards it. Indeed, tattoos are embroidered art to our bodies.