The Dub-A Way

Artistic or rebellious movement?

Wednesday, April 14, 2010 By Garrett Sumner

Tattoos are the permanent expressions In a culture that values individualism tattoos are an avenue for individual expression. Tattoos have long been considered an act of rebellion, but more and more they are becoming the norm. Kelly Baumgarner, a science teacher at Western, states “ Tattoos are currently more widely accepted than they have ever been. They are becoming part of our culture. In the future the norm probably will be to have tattoos and those without one will be in the minority.” Baumgarner has multiple tattoos and when asked what prompted her to get a tattoo she responded by saying “I am an artist and love all types of art and I think some tattoos are beautiful works of art so I wanted one. Plus, I think they are cool.” After getting a flower for her first tattoo, Baumgarner found designs with deeper meaning. Her next tattoo was a butterfly with its body being a couple embracing which she claims “ represents my husband and me emerging into a new life together.” Her most noticeable tattoo is a half-sleeve depicting the “non-Disney version” of Alice and Wonder land. Baumgarner claims that the Lewis Carroll novel “is my favorite book and it is just wonderful artwork.” Various students of Western were asked their opinions. Despite the mixed feeling people have about tattoos they are literally here to stay. Many get tattoos just on impulse but others find symbolism in creating a personal and unique design. Sophomore Kailyn Corriher states “I think that a tattoo says a lot about a person. Most of them have a certain meaning behind them and represent something about the person. When I am old enough I am most likely going to get a small tattoo probably on my heel.” Coach Jason Allred plans to get another tattoo soon. His design will incorporate his children’s names and their meanings and he plans to get the tattoo on his forearm. Kelly Baumgarner plans on future tattoos as well, possibly getting a hummingbird which reminds her of her father and perhaps a matching design with her husband symbolizing many aspects of their relationship.