201 Street

The earliest known tattoos date from the Neolithic period and have been practiced in many cultures worldwide. Throughout that time, lines, dots and marks were used to denote status, religious affiliation, disciplinary measures, protection from the forces and much more. Though many choose to decorate themselves with cross tattoos or butterfly tattoos for cosmetic reason there is not much that has changed when it comes to the modern tattoo. Designs can be remarkably simple or a canvas of distinction that consists of astonishingly minute detail. In either case, these tattoos will still denote affiliation with groups, declarations of love or affirm personal merit and distinction.

Some of the most distinctive use of tattoos can be found in the Maori, the Japanese and the Aztec Indian cultures. Though previously considered a negative symbol of rebellion, tattoos are now embraced by a wide spectrum of the population, from the sales clerk to the white collar professional on Wall Street. There are now many conferences and festivals that bring together tattoo artists and tattoo lovers for the purpose of seeing the newest art, techniques and equipment in the industry. It is now believed that at least a quarter of the population in the United States alone has at least one tattoo.