not my tattoos! found on Pinterest 🙂
After doing some research on why old-school Italians do not like tattoos it is kind of interesting to self-reflect and analyze. In Italy, as in many other countries, tattoos were historically associated with criminals, sailors, and outcasts. This association can linger in the collective memory of older generations, making tattoos seem undesirable or indicative of lack of moral character. It is also said that tattoos bring dishonor to families if they are perceived to associate the individual with a lifestyle or values that contradict the family’s values. I can’t lie, this made me giggle a little bit. I know plenty of Italian men and women who have tattoos that honor their families. In fact, most of my tattoos are ‘dedicated’ or inspired from my family.
My personal take on tattoos is that they are ways of expressing yourself in the form of art. Now, I know that some people disagree with this but I paid a lot of money for my tattoos, so there is nothing ‘undesirable’, nor ‘dishonorable’ about my tattoos. I completely understand that some old-school Italians hate tattoos, I mean my father and grandfather despise them. However, it does not make me ashamed of mine. Mine are constant reminders of what I like and what I represent. I want to carry on whatever idea that represents myself and the people I love everyday. Not to say that ALL of my tattoos are sentimental or have a deeper meaning, because let’s be for real, they don’t.
On the flip side, I know plenty of old-school Italians who have tattoos. And if you pay attention closely they are all dedicated to their families, children, religion or Italy. What is wrong with representing what is important and valuable to you? This is not nearly as much of a stigma as it used to be, but I find it that women struggle with it a little more than men in the culture. But honestly, who cares what other people think? Genuinely, who cares? If you like something obviously put some thought into it before you get it tattooed on your body for the rest of your life. Or don’t! I didn’t LOL! What do you think? Let me know in the comments! And take it easy, I’m new school! 🤣
I agree 100% with your perception of the old school bs new school. I only have a tattoos, the represent my faith, my family, my heritage…proudly an Italian and my husband Sicilian. My parents both came from Italy with their parents and worked hard to make a life for all of us to proud of. My next and last tattoo will be on my ribs, 3 hearts in a row… exactly like this:
💚
🤍
❤️
Saying; Mi famiglie è tutto with my children’s names ❤️ Nico, Bella, Elianna & Giovanna
Mine have great meaning to me and I am proud of them! God Bless 🙏🏽🇮🇹