Face tattoos have long been stigmatized but their cultural significance is being reclaimed by some Indigenous peoples. These tattoos hold a deep connection to identity and self-expression, serving as a symbol of tribal affiliations. For many Indigenous peoples, face tattoos are an ancient tradition, representing family heritage, social status, and a connection with the spiritual world.
In some cultures, facial tattoos are seen as a symbol of tribal affiliations, such as the Maori people of New Zealand. The history, culture, and symbolism of Native American face tattoos are also explored, with popular designs, colors, and styles being debated.
Face tattoos are not just a form of body art; they are a symbol of identity, heritage, and history. They were traditionally part of the initiation into adulthood and signified rank and status, as well as being considered beautiful. They can signify that the wearer has spent time in prison, or more specifically, that the wearer was raped while incarcerated and tattooed by the tattooing artist.
Tattoos are closely tied to the cultural identity of the people, often telling what clan and family they belonged to by these markers. They are often associated with gang activity, drug dealing, or addiction, but this is not always the case. Some people get face tattoos for their symbolic significance and reminder of the hard work of their ancestors.
In summary, face tattoos hold significant cultural significance for Indigenous peoples worldwide, serving as a form of self-expression and connection to their cultural heritage.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Face Tattoos Carry Cultural Significance, Here’s How New … | It’s a show of strength to other Indigenous people across the world, “to be able to normalize our culture and further progress our culture … | teenvogue.com |
| Serious question: Why do people get face tattoos? | Today police have to use subtle features like nose, eyes,scars, etc. When you have a facial tattoo you can give this one identifier to find you. | reddit.com |
| What do face tatoos says about a person? | Often it’s associated with gang members and criminals. Face tattoos, like any other tattoo, symbolize whatever meaning you want to give them. | quora.com |
📹 Face Tattoos What Mine Mean To Me The Reality of Having Them
I have a total of 5 face tattoos. People always want to know what they are, what mine mean to me, why I got them and if I regret …
What Mental Illness Is Linked To Tattoos?
Les troubles psychiatriques, notamment le trouble de la personnalité antisociale, l'abus de drogues ou d'alcool et le trouble de la personnalité borderline, sont souvent associés aux tatouages. Un examen physique révélant un tatouage doit alerter le médecin sur la possibilité d'une condition psychiatrique sous-jacente. Une nouvelle étude montre que les personnes tatouées étaient plus susceptibles d'être diagnostiquées avec des problèmes de santé mentale et de signaler des troubles du sommeil.
La prévalence des tatouages est plus élevée chez les personnes atteintes de troubles mentaux et celles susceptibles d'entrer en contact avec des services de santé mentale. Les motivations pour acquérir un tatouage sont variées, et ces derniers peuvent fournir des indices sur l'état psychologique d'un individu.
Au cours des dernières décennies, les tatouages ont gagné en popularité. En 2003, seulement 16 % des Américains en avaient un, chiffre qui est passé à 29 % en 2015. Les dermatologues et les professionnels de la santé doivent reconnaître que posséder un ou plusieurs tatouages peut être un indicateur de problèmes de santé mentale et de comportements à risque. Toutefois, les conseillers doivent éviter de présumer que les clients tatoués souffrent nécessairement de troubles mentaux, même si de nombreux tatouages visibles sont souvent associés à des conséquences néfastes sur la santé.
Certaines personnes trouvent un soulagement à la douleur émotionnelle par le biais de la modification corporelle, comme les tatouages, tandis que d’autres perçoivent ces actes comme une forme d’expression personnelle. Bien que les tatouages puissent symboliser des outils puissants pour l’expression de soi et la croissance personnelle, leur impact sur la santé mentale est très individuel. Des études ont clairement démontré un lien entre les tatouages et la psychopathologie, y compris des comportements autodestructeurs et des blessures auto-infligées.
La prévalence des tatouages chez les patientes psychiatriques est moins élevée que chez les hommes, mais leur présence peut indiquer une pathologie psychiatrique. Ainsi, les jeunes adultes tatoués présentent souvent une santé mentale moins favorable, renforçant l'idée que les tatouages peuvent être des marqueurs de troubles psychiques.
Why Are Face Tattoos Taboo?
Neck and hand tattoos, much like face tattoos, often carry stigma in the US and various countries, being associated with gang ties or prison time. The historical roots of face tattoos extend over 4, 000 years. For instance, Inuit women adorned their faces with tattoos as a rite of passage into womanhood. Despite the growing normalization of tattoos, piercings, and hair dye, face tattoos remain controversial and are frequently deemed unprofessional. This stigma stems from negative stereotypes, which research indicates often leads to biases against individuals sporting visible tattoos.
The motivations behind face tattoos are diverse, primarily revolving around identity and self-expression. As visible and permanent forms of art, face tattoos enhance this expression, resonating deeply with those who wear them. Additionally, the exploration of religious tattoo practices reveals their long-standing cultural significance. Today, prominent celebrities are embracing face tattoos, gradually reshaping societal views. Understanding and addressing tattoo stigma is crucial to fostering acceptance and inclusivity, allowing individuals to make personal choices without fear of judgment.
Once shunned, face tattoos are increasingly viewed as symbols of pride among tattoo enthusiasts. However, some still perceive them unfavorably, seeing them as a disrespectful statement or a distraction. The persistent societal bias is evident, as demonstrated by studies showing a correlation between face tattoos and negative outcomes in legal contexts, contributing to stereotypes of criminality.
While the acceptance of tattoos has improved over the years, face tattoos remain professional and socially unacceptable to many. A few years ago, possessing such a tattoo would significantly hinder employment opportunities and social acceptance. Therefore, it's essential to recognize the complex history and cultural significance associated with face tattoos before making such a decision, especially in light of ongoing debates around cultural erasure and personal expression.
What Type Of Person Gets A Face Tattoo?
A face tattoo, which is ink placed on the bearer’s face or head, symbolizes a significant appreciation for body art and a medium for artistic expression. While seen as a form of traditional tattooing in various ethnic groups, face tattoos remain highly controversial, often regarded as taboo in many cultures. Although societal views on tattoos have gradually evolved to become more accepting, face tattoos still represent a bold choice that many consider extreme. Getting a face tattoo is undeniably a significant decision, with potential risks and regrets that warrant careful consideration.
Individuals opt for face tattoos for a variety of reasons. They might seek to convey strong personal beliefs, creatively express themselves, or make spiritual statements. The face’s prominent and visible nature makes it an optimal canvas for showcasing body art. Recent years have seen a rise in popularity of face tattoos, largely influenced by celebrities such as Post Malone, Lil Wayne, and Travis Barker, who exhibit these bold designs. However, it’s crucial for anyone contemplating a face tattoo to consider the potential repercussions, especially in professional contexts where facial tattoos may affect first impressions.
Face tattoos can send mixed messages; while some people associate them with negative stereotypes—such as gang activity or drug dealing—others appreciate them for cultural significance or sheer aesthetic appeal. In this light, many view their bodies, including their faces, as canvases for art, with a face tattoo embodying an individual’s personal narrative or memories of loved ones.
Despite society's shifting perspective, stereotypes surrounding face tattoos persist; they are often linked with rebellious subcultures like punk or hip-hop. Some individuals may deliberately choose them for this reason, while others may simply think they look aesthetically pleasing. The journey to getting a face tattoo is often compared to memorable milestones, signifying that it is an experience that requires thought only to be realized fully after the fact.
Ultimately, motivation behind face tattoos is deeply personal. For many, it serves as an impactful way to assert individuality. Conversely, there are those who believe that making a visible statement can be viewed as an effort to project toughness or resilience, despite the potential for misunderstanding. Therefore, whether it’s for personal expression, a symbol of pain, or memorializing a cherished event or individual, face tattoos are complex reflections of identity, culture, and society’s evolving standards around body art.
Why Would Someone Put Tattoos On Their Face?
Face tattoos serve as a unique form of self-expression, allowing individuals to convey their personality, beliefs, and artistic choices. They can hold cultural or spiritual significance for some, reflecting heritage or major life events. Brighton tattoo artist Rob Lake advises against getting face tattoos, believing there are countless reasons to reconsider this choice. Traditionally, face tattoos have pushed societal boundaries, but in contemporary culture, they often align with counterculture movements that reject mainstream norms.
The motivations behind choosing a face tattoo are varied, but common reasons include making a bold personal statement, showcasing individuality, and accepting the attention that comes with such visible art. However, face tattoos can fade faster compared to tattoos in less exposed areas, presenting a maintenance challenge for designs like Post Malone's "Always Tired" on his cheeks compared to a tattoo hidden away on the back.
Tattooing inherently connects to identity, and face tattoos intensify this association due to their permanent and highly visible nature. Comparisons between different tattoo placements highlight the stigma associated with face tattoos, such as the recognition of teardrop tattoos suggesting a criminal background versus a harmless dolphin on the ankle. With nearly a third of people in the U. S. having tattoos, curiosity about their motivations is natural.
Despite perceptions linking face tattoos to gang culture, drug dealing, or addiction, many opt for face tattoos for aesthetic reasons, cultural representation, or plain beauty. Views of the human body as a canvas enable some to see the face as just another area for personal artistry, even if societal norms frown upon it.
In prison environments, face tattoos can connote a wild persona or signify personal experiences. Overall, face tattoos might represent status, maturity, beauty, and are often driven by a desire to make self-expressive and unique statements. Ultimately, the question remains: why do some choose such bold forms of tattooing? The answers lie in personal significance and artistic exploration.
What Does A 3 Dots Tattoo Mean On The Face?
The three dots tattoo is a well-known prison tattoo symbolizing "mi vida loca," or "my crazy life." It isn't linked to any specific gang but embodies the broader gang lifestyle. Typically inked on the hands or near the eyes, the tattoo carries profound meanings that may resonate differently with each individual. Originating from Hispanic culture, the phrase reflects gang members' allegiance and their readiness to die for their causes. While some may perceive these three dots as a simple adornment, for others, they encompass deep personal significance.
The tattoo serves as a fascinating emblem of both simplicity and complexity in symbolism. Its placement can range from subtle areas like fingers to more conspicuous locations such as the face, particularly near the eyes or cheekbones. While this placement may indicate gang affiliation or criminal ties, its meanings have evolved; now it often symbolizes a reminder to embrace life fully despite hardships.
Furthermore, the three dots tattoo can represent various concepts dependent on personal interpretation. For example, a triangular arrangement of dots might signify inner thoughts and dreams trapped within oneself. Traditionally, the tattoo also represents survival, resilience, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities, encapsulating the journey through adversity.
Over time, the three-dot tattoo has come to symbolize secrecy, devotion, and the duration of a prison sentence. It's essential to approach this tattoo with an understanding of its complex connotations. Ultimately, while the three dots may appear simplistic, they hold significant cultural importance and emotional depth, inviting individuals to reflect on their unique meanings behind this inked mark. Whether viewed as an emblem of life struggles or personal insights, the three dots tattoo encourages a deeper contemplation of one's life experiences and aspirations.
What Kind Of Person Tattoos Their Face?
A face tattoo can represent a person's appreciation for body art and their unique creative expression. Often associated with specific subcultures like punk, hip-hop, or gang culture, face tattoos can significantly shape how individuals are perceived by others. These tattoos, situated on the face or head, hold traditional significance for various ethnic groups, though in contemporary society, they are frequently viewed as taboo and extreme. The multitude of reasons for getting face tattoos is as diverse as the tattoos themselves.
It’s a significant decision that should be taken seriously, considering the potential for regret and the societal implications. People may choose face tattoos for artistic, spiritual, or personal reasons, with many finding them visually appealing.
The popularity of face tattoos has surged in recent years, largely due to the influence of celebrities such as Post Malone, Lil Wayne, and Travis Barker. However, anyone considering a face tattoo should weigh several factors before making that choice. While face tattoos can carry negative connotations associated with gang affiliation or criminality, many individuals choose them for cultural significance or aesthetic appeal. Contrary to the stereotypes, face tattoos can symbolize diverse meanings based on personal interpretation.
For some, having a face tattoo might be a strategy to convey toughness or challenge societal norms, with a belief that it communicates strength or uniqueness. On the other hand, individuals like exotic dancers may use facial markings as a means of establishing their professional identity. Nonetheless, the decision to get a face tattoo invites swift judgment from others, often failing to recognize it as a legitimate art form.
Historically, this practice was popular among notable figures like Mike Tyson but has increasingly become more common in everyday life. Ultimately, while face tattoos are bold statements, they require careful consideration regarding their social implications and lasting impact.
What Is The Face Tattoo Syndrome?
Face Tattoo Syndrome™ is a term coined by Ben Shapiro, describing individuals who get face tattoos and express shock or offense when people stare at them. This phenomenon highlights the contradiction between the act of getting a deliberately controversial tattoo and the subsequent reaction to being noticed for it. Shapiro has criticized celebrities like Lizzo and Cardi B for similar provocative behaviors.
As someone considering a face tattoo, I have multiple hand tattoos and my left arm is nearly fully inked. The symbolic implications of tattoos can vary, with some designs signifying experiences such as prison time or victimization.
Those contemplating face tattoos often face societal scrutiny and preconceived notions about body art. Traditionally, tattoos, particularly on the face, can evoke strong reactions. For instance, individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) must consider unique skin characteristics when getting inked. The phenomenon further encourages discussions on identity, societal norms, and personal expression.
In popular discourse, people may express a desire for tattoos up to a point, but draw the line at facial ink. For example, tattoo enthusiasts might face criticism not for their body art generally, but specifically when it involves their face, neck, or hands. There are also case studies showing potential psychological implications associated with tattoos, with tattoos sometimes signifying underlying mental health conditions.
One notable instance is a former tattooed individual who underwent tattoo removal due to societal backlash. The conversation surrounding face tattoos encompasses various aspects, including personal choice, societal expectations, and the seeming hypocrisy of those who engage in eye-catching modifications yet react negatively to scrutiny.
Ultimately, Face Tattoo Syndrome™ encapsulates a broader dialogue about creative expression, identity, and the tension between self-expression and societal acceptance surrounding body art.
What Is The Psychology Behind Getting Tattoos?
Tattoos serve various motivations that extend beyond personal identity, narrative, or group affiliation. Some research suggests they are increasingly regarded as fashion accessories or wearable art. Since ancient times, tattoos have acted as a medium for self-expression, inscribing narratives of identity, culture, and personal experiences onto the body, thereby carrying significant psychological and cultural weight. A review of thirty years of tattoo psychology research highlights several key insights: 1.
The normalization of tattoos in contemporary society, shifting from a historical stigma. Tattoos may also reflect risk-taking behaviors, with individuals inclined to acquire them often exhibiting impulsive or thrill-seeking traits. This aligns with self-determination theory, proposing that tattoos fulfill needs for relatedness, competence, and autonomy, contributing to an enhanced sense of self.
The motivations behind tattooing are deeply nuanced, indicating that this practice goes beyond mere fashion trends. Tattoos possess rich spiritual, cultural, and emotional significance, often tied to self-discovery, coping mechanisms for personal challenges, or social connections. In essence, they encapsulate aspects of identity and individual experiences.
The decision to get tattooed usually involves a variety of psychological elements, such as the desire for self-expression. Tattoos have the potential to impact an individual's self-identity profoundly. This personal choice frequently mirrors one’s beliefs, experiences, and values, acting as a powerful tool for defining oneself.
Modern tattoo culture has exploded, with shops worldwide showcasing incredible artistry. The psychology behind tattoos captivates many, leading to a burgeoning fascination. Identified motivations include marking significant life events or struggles, altering body perception, or aligning with societal ideals of beauty or provocation.
Furthermore, tattoos may symbolize deep personal connections, allowing individuals to depict their values and beliefs visibly. This reflects a broader human tendency to cultivate a unique identity through personal appearance, often in search of acknowledgment that feels insufficiently received.
What Do Face Tattoos Symbolize?
Facial tattoos are highly visible marks that often symbolize a deep commitment to personal identity or lifestyle choices. For some, they represent rebellion against societal norms, challenging conventional beliefs regarding beauty and professionalism. Various ethnic groups across the world have long practiced face tattooing, such as the Ainu women in northern Japan and parts of Russia, who ink smiles around their mouths to ward off spirits, highlighting a blend of cultural significance and spiritual beliefs.
These tattoos convey boldness and courage, indicating a willingness to face public judgment. Among the common designs, three lines tattooed from the lip to the chin carry personal meanings for the wearer. Beyond rebellion, face tattoos can foster a sense of community, symbolizing membership and solidarity within various subcultures. They possess deep religious and spiritual significance for many ethnic groups, believed to connect wearers with ancestral spirits or serve as protective amulets.
Historically, in Indigenous cultures, particularly for women, facial tattoos have symbolized empowerment and the transition from girlhood to womanhood, representing strength rather than mere decoration. Despite facing stigma and stereotypes likening them to gang culture or criminality, the rich cultural heritage behind these tattoos is often overlooked. For example, among the Māori people, men would typically receive full facial tattoos, while women's tattoos were often restricted to the lips and chin, signifying status and beautification through cultural rites of passage.
Specific designs, like the teardrop tattoo, carry various meanings, with one interpretation indicating personal loss or criminal history. Tattoo artists and individuals, like Kurdish artist Elu Aiyana and Māori creator Taylor-Rose Terekia, provide insight into the personal significance and stories behind these tattoos. Ultimately, facial tattoos reflect the complex interplay between individual choice, cultural identity, and social narratives.
📹 The Truth About Face Tattoos Joe Rogan
The Truth About People That Get Face Tattoos Joe Rogan From JRE #2195 With Guest Andrew Huberman #jre #joerogan …
Not gonna lie, the first time I saw you, it was jarring. But I’m kind of old school, and kind of wish I lived in the late 1950’s (for so, so many reasons) because I love how people tried to look presentable to other people, so they looked “put together,” and not crazy. But, you do you, boo; I can respect that. I still love you, bro; and I LOVE YOUR website, and your sense of humor. You have a beautiful soul; and actually a pretty nice body, so carry on my wayward son. You’re doing good work. With all that said, I’ll close with this sendoff. Wall-ack-a-choo, little-boat.
Doubt you’ll read this as it’s old but looked for this article after you said in a recent one about it. Just the moment about your mum saying how she liked the way you looked, the way you started the sentence made it sound like something negative was coming but it was really wholesome!! Love it! (coming from a mum with tattoos)
I was brought up in Catholicism but walked away from religion at 12y/o, I have found my Faith in Jesus in the past 7 years and as I walk in the Spirit I have learned how much the Romans have hurt the Christians both in persecution and forced religion through Constantine. I do believe that to be saved all you need is to know is that you are and will always be a sinner, you try to avoid sin and have Faith that Jesus has already forgiven every sin. The thief on the cross did all this and was saved without having been in “religion”. I never knew the story of St Peter and I got to say the the reason you have that cross is really cool…I can’t condone satanism but I think the meaning behind a cross weather it has been used by evil doesn’t matter, the cross will always represent the day the evil one lost. God bless and great article.
Love this article for two reasons. #1) you speak about your face being asymmetrical. Mine is too and it’s embarrassed me forever. You owning it has given me some pause and some inspiration, honestly. And #2) I have a two year old. She is allowed to see your articles that are less controversial like this one – hey momma can’t live on baby shows alone lol. Anyways. Today she started started copying you when you say “In the world!” I literally had to restart your article three times to hear what you were saying lol. I just look at her and she says “In da worl!!” So cute. You’re so smart and funny. I love your work. Thanks for being unapologetically YOU!!! Edited for spelling error.
Finally! I’ve been waiting for you to talk about this. I love that you know about occult subjects 🙂 I will say, as someone who’s been studying astrology/occult for many years now, Mercury is more considered to be “gender fluid”. I usually refer to the planet as him – as I associate him with Hermes, among many other things. I have yet to come across anyone embracing Mercury’s feminine aspects, so that’s quite refreshing – as are many of your takes 🙂 Thanks for sharing
Your face tattoos are the first thing I noticed about you, of course. The one that I wondered most about was the one across your eye. Having someone tattoo on your eye would worry me, so I knew you would have a strong reason to get it. I knew it would represent something important to you. That is also the one I don’t find attractive because it looks like you don’t like your eye. The clown eye was something I thought of when I saw it. Thank you for telling us about these tattoos. I’m glad that the eye tattoo was not one of self disdain but one to express humor.
My uncle, God rest his soul, was in the navy and had tattoos. He always said he regretted them but they were part of who he was. I don’t have tattoos but I saw this college girl with Chinese on her feet(tats) I could not help myself and told her I was fluent in Mandarin Chinese and I told her ” you do know that really means soy sauce” ? She said they told me it means peace and love. 😂😂😂😂 to which I said ” they lied to you” 😂😂 I love you and your honesty and you always put a smile on my face. I also always mostly chuckle at your content. You really are greatest comedian IN THE WORLD😊
I’m not surprised the “clown” tattoo hurt like heck given the skin around the eye is so thin and sensitive. I’ll admit your facial tatts were a bit “confronting” at first glance, but now they seem like such an integral part of your personality. They’ve grown on me & I can’t imagine you without them.
Thai, I like your personality and how open and genuine you are! Your tattoos express that. I am sure it took a long time to come to grips with who you are and I appreciate all the work you continue to do! I am so glad I came across your website and you are most definitely the best LGBTQ comedian in the world! I am a new fan and I look forward to seeing your content in the future, Thank You!
Excellent watch! 2 things I went to St Peter’s Cathedral School and church, the St. Peters Cross is a story I have known about for a very long time. One of my classmates has his whole back tattooed with a graphic St Peter on the cross. A very deep exhibition of humility put i nto action. When I lived back West I cooked at a place in Studio City and my regulars were William Shatner, Marie Osmond, and Dave Navarro. This article reminded me of those days. He was great. I coulda hooked you up! Always a great view! Miss ya from Delaware! Working on a couple shows for the spring, Muritori is coming when I get it set up! Maybe fly North East! Awesome!
On one hand, I think the facial tattos make you look like a death row inmate but that’s just my own taste. On the other, tattoos make your skin look likea short story collection. And your website instantly made into my favourites list here. I can relate to so much of what you’re saying about activism due to my experience.
It won’t let me put a needle!! Doesn’t matter because I wanted to comment anyway, I love your tattoos and think they’re a great way to express yourself and your personality. I’m normally not a fan of face tattoos, but I think you’re suit you. I have a friend who is a tattoo artist, and the emphasis is on “artist” she’s her own canvas and I think she, and her art, are amazing, and it drives me insane when people judge her for it!
Beautiful wonderful man. I’m turning 46 on the 29th and I don’t know if I’m older or younger than you but you look beautiful and badass with your tattoos. Mine are more whimsy and on my arms and legs but my pagan self thinks you’re beautiful and maybe it’s because I’m in love with a Juggalo but I think your tattoos are badass. Regardless you’re beautiful.
Bro, I love your tattoos, I’m glad you’re self aware and hold such a good mental stance. A lot of people use them to attention-seek and always get upset when people don’t like them. Imo they are all about you. In Shinto, we hold the belief our body is a temple, and it is not allowed to get tattoos, but to me, I like having it as a modern take of “my body is my temple, and sometimes some paint makes it fresh af yo”
You don’t care about my opinion, so good! I feel like I can honestly say that no, you do not look scary. Your smile is too genuine when you talk about your mother and your eyes are very warm. You have laugh lines in your future. You look happy. I would never look at you and judge you as scary. I’d judge you as a low key teddy bear ❤ Thank you for responding to my comment on another article asking about your tattoos. This is perfect, I knew they were part of your story. It’s lovely. You are lovely. God bless you!
Thank you for making this! I have some tattoos myself and know the meaning of each is very personal to me – none were done because of a fad or just to have a certain design on my body. And thank you for addressing the pain aspect – I have to say I was hanging on anxiously hoping you’d say something about it and I’m sure I won’t be getting any facial tats! But good for you – wish I had your same confidence in life.
My last name is Self, so….my daughter and I got matching tattoos “in Latin” They said 16:36 nosce te ipsom on our right wrist like a bracelet. It means “know thy self! It’s our family motto. Our main tattoo is also in Latin, it’s on my left upper arm and it says: Aut Viam invanium Aut Facium . That means…. If I can’t find a way, I’ll make a way!!!!Tats should mean something to the wearer!
I saw those a mile away. I am sure you have thought of this too, but. I do wonder what Genesis P. Orridge would have to say about all this. I often think of her jumping in that special outfit screaming “I AM NOT THE SAME!” They were NOT the same. They were amazing. They were waaaay different than this, but, I just wish I could hear what they would have to say these days. I’d like to think that Genesis and Lady Jaye would be having some really cool conversations right now. Those are some of my teachers for sure. TTOPY ❤ OK now I’m gonna go watch this article cause you mentioned it in a 11/4/24 article. “May you live in interesting times.” Thanks Thai, I really enjoy your content.
Hi Thai! I have tattoos and (not that it matters) I’m also gay. Face tattoos, however, aren’t my thing, but not only do I appreciate your keen insight on all the topics you talk about (which I’m on board with!), but I also appreciate you telling us all the stories behind your face tattoos and what they mean to you 😊
i had assumed your eye tattoo was meant to be sort of a sunburst style. it looks good the way it is rather than the rigid lines of clown makeup. thank you for sharing what these decorations mean to you. listening to what you have to say has become increasingly beneficial to me over the past 8 months. i recall you saying something about staying in a bad relationship is just a placeholder for loneliness. that resonated with me so deeply. my bf of 8+ years broke up with me a couple weeks after i listened to that article and it pushed me into a psychological reckoning. your words helped me grapple with the truth of my situation. i moved back home to Austin back in April and, as emotionally uncomfortable of an adjustment as it’s been, your words in that podcast-eque episode have served as assurance and comfort in the looping background noise of my mind. tl;dr i really appreciate you as a person, Thai.
I have quite a few tattoos….8 so far all on my arms. I don’t want to have any on other parts of my body. Mine all mean something to me….a couple were drawn by my best friend who is basically my soulmate….we also have identical tattoos that she designed. I have my Grandmothers handwriting. I have my fathers name in Thai (we have family in Thailand and spent much time there, my father was contemplating moving there before he passed on). I have a Fleur de lis which was my grandfathers ‘signature’ as a stonemason….his mason mark when he worked on a site….and I have a couple of gaming tattoos and a jack sparrow one. I have a sword tip right at the top of my wrist at the joint….that was so painful! I have been told that I will regret my ink when I am older….I am nearly 40 and have no regrets so far….and plan to get more done! I love this article and how you explain all your ink, which I really like and so cool of your mother to just go, I like the way you look. So sweet!
I have 3 tattoos, the most meaningful one is a matching tattoo I got with my mom (who sadly passed away in 2018). We both got a matching banner that says “Cure Scleroderma”, which is my autoimmune illness called Systemic Scleroderma that I was diagnosed with at 17yo. I also have 2 large tribal shaped tattoos with skulls free-handed inside of them on both upper arms, I’m a registered Native American and those tattoos represent the first 2 years of battling my autoimmune illness, which was the darkest period of my life at the time prior to my mom passing away in 2018. 2018 was by far the worst year of my life, I almost didn’t survive that hell filled with deep grief, family ab*se, and constant drama. I was a broken man by the time I finally got my own place.
I completely understand where you’re coming from with respect to your mom. It took my mom quite a long time, but she finally told me one day that she liked all my piercings and tattoos and that I was able to pull them off well. I have a lot like yourself and while I don’t care what others think about me I do still care what my momma thinks and it made me so happy that she finally said she liked all my piercings. My dad was more of less indifferent to my ink n piercings, but he hated when I’d put my finger through my tunnels 😂
I must apologize for being one of those who had asked you about the tattoo on your eye. I think it’s absolutely amazingly unique, just like you are. I think it’s so beautiful and wonderful that your momma loves your facial tats and piercings. I wish that my mom was like that; I told her I was going to get a naval piercing, and she said that if I did, she’d yank it out, so I waited 2 years after she passed away to get my naval pierced. You ARE an amazing comedian, and I wish that my husband and myself could go see you, but I don’t think you’re coming to Illinois anytime soon. If you are, Chicago is just a bit too far away. Sorry!!!
stand in line Thai. Dave Navarro is mighty fine. I have total respect for him after an interview I saw regarding his poor mom’s murder. It was heartbreaking and I just wanted to hug him even more. I binged watch his show two winters ago and found a new appreciation for tats and the artist that create them. I don’t have any, although family, exs, and friends have lots. Thanks for explaining yours.
Thai, I love your mercury tattoos, the leviathan cross and the om symbol… I’ve been following you for over a year, I’m not from the US so unfortunately I’ve never been able to attend your stand UP, but I think it must be hilarious, and the impression you always gave me was that you were a very sweet and focused person. It was really sweet of you to say that the only person whose opinion matters is your mother. If one day my daughters got the word “mom” tattooed on their hands, I’d be happy, but then it’s their choice when they’re older. I think you are an inspiration, your comments, your life experience. I love Thay alchemy and people judge symbols by ignorance. I wish you and your whole family, especially your mother, lots of love, joy and health 🤗🕉️🕉️🕉️
I keep pushing my husband to get more tattoos! Lol. He has a big tattoo on his forearm dedicated to his best friend who was killed during a deployment. He always gets older people who make rude comments about it until he tells them he was an Army Ranger and what the meaning of it is and then you can tell they feel shitty about their previous judgements, lol. I want him to get a full sleeve up to hisleft pectoral because its hot. We’ll see if I ever get him to do it!! Lol. I love your tattoos!
Thanks for this! Couldn’t make out the AUM until you pointed it out and I was wondering what that “mammoth cross” meant. I have 10 tattoos so far, 9 on the arms, one on my ankle. I sometimes contemplate getting a tiny one on my face, but doubt that will happen. I KNOW that one over your eye hurt like the dickens – the skin is so thin and sensitive, and yeah, that close to your eye…. shudder Looks good though!
Im just gonna say…for tegular working folks… if you get a face tattoo you have decided you don’t want a traditional job. And as long as you are good with that do you. But don’t tat or oierce your face then get upset that you can’t get a traditional job. I don’t make these rules, but Iive and work in corporate and they aren’t ready for all that.
Idgaf its ur body ur story i judge on what comes out of ur mouth & how you carry yourself. I didnt show my parents & hid my arm sleeve for a year lol i slipped up one day & my Dad saw them .My Mom who doesn’t like tattoos said mine were tasteful and she liked them…bless the mommies out there that still luv us unconditionally 😉🤣🤣
I don’t think I’ve asked about the ones on your face, but I have asked if I was on the right track about what your polyhedrons on your knuckles were about. And your lack of an answer was my answer, I’m guessing. For you they are not about D&d nor representatives of the platonic solids. But I shouldn’t have expected you to have a geek mind. No judgement, just realization that your meaning is different than my own if I were to have them.
Ive already decided when i turn 60 im celebrating by getting a face tat! Also, i was baptized and raised strict catholic too. Now i can’t stand most religions and their hypocritical beliefs (also catholics don’t believe animals go to heaven because they have no souls. Thats b.s.) Thanks for sharing your tattoo stories ❤❤❤
Glad my kid is adhd and is so focused she didn’t hear any of the Jesus stuff. We don’t teach about religion, race, or other woke stuff. When she’s 18 my daughter can have at it and do or believe what she wishes. I was religious 35 years and I’m not a believer in anything paranormal anymore. Ideologies are all harmful in some way.
You just taught me something new. I didn’t know there was a St. Peter’s cross. St Peter aka Judas.. And for orthodox Christians they will still equate it with Satanism, but Gnostics know better, in my opinion. Reading the gospel of Thomas which is considered “heresy” (which actually just means free thought as opposed to the controlled information of orthodoxy. Which do you prefer? Someone to dictate the truth or the ability to discern truth for yourself?) Judas wasn’t prophesied to deny for the sake of denial but basically as a means for Jesus not to be able to back out of his own words and plan. If not for St. Peter there’d be no evidence of a messiah.