I was on my way home last night, tired as hell when I passed by Black Sheep Tattoo. I stared at it as I sat at the stop sign, thinking about what I've been wanting to get done this past year and then kept driving to get home. Before I knew it, I had circled back and parked in front. I went inside and was immediately greeted by Jessica, the owner. She was super friendly and asked what I wanted to get done. I didn't realize it, but my tiredness had suddenly disappeared and I was now super excited to be getting more work done. I told her my thoughts and we discussed it for a bit and decided on the design and placement. She started getting everything ready while I signed the consent form.
I knew what I wanted and had always been apprehensive about any tattoos on my hands. Back in the day, they were known as Job Stoppers, but I know times have changed. However, being dark skinned, I felt like it could easily be hidden, if anything since I was getting line work only; No shading. Plus rings and makeup could cover them, if I had to. She also suggested not to shade because over time it could blur. I really appreciated that bit of advice, because there are some artists who will do whatever and not care about the longevity of the work.
I chose the Lotus flower for a couple reasons. For one, it goes with all of my other work, which is traditional Japanese style. For another, the Lotus represents a deep spiritual meaning, as all of my tattoos have a deep meaning and purpose for me; The Lotus stands for purity, strength, and grace. I felt that it really represented my feelings perfectly and because Lotus flowers bloom beautifully in dark, dirty, and murky water. I went through a lot this past year and have made it a point to heal from an extremely toxic and abusive relationship. And let me just say that I could give a fuck about what negativity anyone has to say about me being open... Too many people are abused and they stay quiet! I'm done being quiet! I felt like that Lotus flower...surrounded by darkness, yet trying to make my way to the light and bloom. All of my tattoos represent strength, resilience, and perseverance over life's struggles.
These new ones that Jessica did are beautiful and dainty and will continue to remind me of how far I've come and that I'm stronger than I think. The Unalome represents wisdom, which I feel that I have discovered and am on the path to discovering more, as we can never have enough wisdom. Whenever I'm having a hard time or my anxiety is kicking in, looking at my hand grounds me and reminds me... If you have ever known anyone who has suffered from any trauma, PTSD or anxiety, you know that grounding is important. Grounding is basically focusing on one thing that helps you through whatever you're going through at that moment. While these tattoos are so beautiful, they also have such deep meaning for me. Thank you Jessica for making my visions a reality.
Find them on Instagram:
@ JessicaMarieTattoo
@Blvcksheeptattooparlor
@chubbz.rocks
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