New Vizion Tattoo: Story Told in Ink
Body art or tattoos date back to as early as 5,000 BCE, with evidence found on the bodies of ancient icemen, such as Ötzi. Ötzi, a Bronze Age man who lived around 3300 BCE, had over 57 tattoos. His body was discovered in the Alps in 1991. Scientists believe these tattoos were located near acupuncture points, indicating the earliest signs of acupuncture. The tattoos formed patterns on his spine, knee, and ankle joint, suggesting they may have been used for therapeutic purposes.
The Egyptians also practiced tattooing, as evidenced by tattoos found on mummified women. These date back to the era when the Great Pyramids of Egypt were built, approximately 4,000 years ago. In Roman times, tattoos were used to mark criminals and slaves, similar to how some gangs use tattoos today.
One of the first permanent tattoo shops was established in New York City in 1846 by Martin Hildebrandt, who became well-known for tattooing soldiers and sailors. The world's first rotary tattoo machine was invented by Samuel O’Reilly, an Irish-American, who was inspired by Thomas Edison's work.
In Japan, elaborate tattoos began to appear on bodies in the late 3rd century. In America, one of the earliest known tattoos was found on a woman from St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, with tissue dating back to the 16th century.
Tattoos have come a long way. Today, they are used as a form of art, storytelling, and commemoration. Tattooing has become a multi-million dollar industry, with rates averaging $150 an hour, and potentially up to $3,750 a day. Tattoos are part of many cultures and there are over 15 different styles, including black and gray, Japanese style, fine line, tribal, dotwork, and new school, to name a few.
One notable figure in the tattoo world is Anthony Manuel Maya, known as @tatts_by_ant, who started as a young boy with a passion for art. He has since become one of Arizona’s premier tattoo artists, establishing himself as one of the greats.
How long have you been tattooing?
I have been tattooing for 12 years. The first 7 years were on and off; the last 5 years have been consistent with no breaks.
What is your favorite style of tattooing?
Pretty much anything black and gray.
Are all tattoo artists all around artists… as in, do they all draw, paint and so on?
I would have to say no. There are tattooers and there are tattoo artists. Tattooers know their way around a tattoo machine. Tattoo artists have more of an artistic background.
In your opinion, what is the worst spot on the body to tattoo?
I think the worst parts to tattoo are the ribs, stomach and neck. The stomach is hard because of the breathing, and the ribs are because of how tender it is, so it’s harder for someone to sit. The neck is difficult because of the positioning and it doesn’t take the ink as well as other parts of the body.
Is it easier to tattoo women or men?
I would say women because they have a higher pain tolerance.
Are tattoo styles different from state to state?
I wouldn’t say different, but you can tell what style came from where. For example the West Coast is more Chicano style as opposed to the East Coast.
You can book today with Anthony on his Instagram @tatts_by_ant and at his new location
New Vizion tattoo (also on Instagram @newviziontattoo).
Comments