To Ink or Not to Ink: That’s the Question

By ANGELA FOSUHENE-APENTENG/Contributor

Natalie Hernandez, a senior health science major, shows off her collection of tattoos. On her bicep are a cherry 8-ball, a set of “love” dice, and the number 777.

Each tattoo represents a part of her, from impulsive decisions to symbols that carry personal meaning.

“The 8-ball was very impulsive,” Hernandez said. “I just wanted a tattoo, so I got that one.  “The 777 is meaningful because that’s my angel number, so I had to get that one.”

Hernandez is far from alone in her decision to get tattooed.

A recent survey by the Pew Research Center found that tattoos are a popular form of self-expression. Thirty-two percent of those surveyed reported they have at least one tattoo. Among those with a tattoo, 22% have more than one.

Top Reasons People Get a Tattoo: Pew Research Center

1. Honor someone, something
2. Make a statement
3. Improve appearance 

Sydni Baxter, a junior majoring in health science, has two tattoos on her thigh: a lion with a crown and her grandmother’s handwriting.

“I got my grandmother’s handwriting because she’s a very special part of me and I always have that part on me from her, even when she passes and stuff like that,” Baxter said. “My lion tattoo.  I’m a Leo and lions represent strength, courage, power, all that, and then the crown of course, you know.”

Tattoos are especially popular among younger adults. Nearly half of people under 40 said they have body art, according to the Pew Research Center. People across many backgrounds get tattoos, the researchers found.

Emily Weberski, a sophomore, has two tattoos, each has a unique story. A shark on her forearm represents a cherished memory with her mother.

“Every year, my mom and I would get together for a week and we would watch Shark Week,” Weberski said. “It was just me and my mom.”

Her second tattoo, a paw print on her shoulder, pays tribute to her German shepherd, Chloe, who played a role improving Emily’s mental health during a difficult time.

“I got her in April of 2020 so that was when quarantine hit and a whole lot of people were having a really rough time with their mental health and stuff, but she would be the one who was actually getting me out of bed, getting me out of the house,” Weberski said.

Weberski plans to add more tattoos to her collection. “I do plan on getting a couple more, like sharks and other marine animals, to add to the shark that I already have,” she said.

Hear why one student chose to get a tattoo. (Recorded by Sydni Baxter)

 

And why another student does not want one. (Recorded by Andrea Davis)

 

Not every tattoo has a story behind it.

Denisha Mims, a senior health science major, admitted her tattoos are more about spontaneity than symbolism.

“There was really no specific reason as to why I wanted one,” Mims said. “I was just like, ‘why not get a tattoo?’”

Despite their lack of deep significance, Mims values her tattoos and is open to getting more.

“I’ve been saying for years now that I want another tattoo,” she said. “It’s just a matter of me figuring out what I want and when I’m going to set up the time to actually get another one.”

UT Tyler Students Show Off Their Tattoos 

Photo by ANDREA DAVIS.