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knowledge. This opened the field to many new artists, and newly-opened supply companies began marketing "learn to tattoo" booklets and offering supplies for sale to a wider public. During the late sixties, tattooist Lyle Tuttle's work was even featured on the cover of "Rolling Stone" magazine, on the singer Janis Joplin. As the counter-culture grew, so did the popularity of tattoo art.

It is from this era that tattooing's modern resurgence begins. In 1976 the National Tattoo Association was founded, and became a group which encouraged members to share information with each other. This helped a whole generation of people who had become involved in tattooing; many of whom came from a fine art background. Ed Hardy, Vyvyn Lazonga, and Gil Montie were all working at this time. Montie, working in Hollywood, tattooed many celebrities, including Johnny Depp, prompting a new style trend in L.A.

As the years passed, tattoo art became more refined. Non-reactive and hypoallergenic pigments, more specific techniques in shading, the introduction of one-use needles and disposable equipment, modern hospital-grade disinfectants and surfactants, and more proficiency in draftsmanship all contributed to a shift in the perception of tattoos. As the artwork itself became more refined, tattoos became a style accessory, a status symbol, or a personal artistic or spiritual statement. In the last ten years tattoo conventions have become commonplace; the money to be made by promoters has encouraged many smaller venues to host them. Television shows have also dispelled many doubts and fears in the public's mind about the safety of the modern tattooing procedure. With modern sterilization methods, disposable equipment, and health and safety training required by law in most states, tattooing has become safer and therefore, less rebellious.

Many people now see tattoos as simply another means of expression; as a vital addition to their personal style. Tattoos have always been used to commemorate the dead, express rank and status, decorate and entice- but their current popularity takes away their threat and mute rebellion, and makes them another part of the common currency of artistic expression.

Learn more about this author, A.R. Marth.
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