Welcome to the very first edition of BME’s Big Question! In this weekly (hopefully) feature, we’re going to ask a handful of the community’s best and brightest piercers, tattooists, heavy mod practitioners and shop owners for their opinion on one question or issue that’s affecting the body modification community. Many, many thanks to all of the contributors.
If you’d like to be a part of future editions, or if you have an idea for an issue or question you’d like to see addressed, please e-mail me.
This week’s question:
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| Meg Barber |
Call me old fashioned, call me “against modification” … whatever. I’ll look at you and laugh, but yes, you can be too modified for this industry.
The way I see it, the average client isn’t coming in to completely transform their body. They are coming in for a cute accessory, a nice little tchotchke to accent their face or body. They aren’t completely immersed in the modification world, nor do they wish to be. They will identify more with a piercer or tattoo artist that is lightly and attractively modified over one that is totally pierced, tattooed, and implanted.
I work in a very high end piercing spa in Manhattan. At our studio, I am the most heavily modified person on the staff. Clients really need to hear me speak before they will trust me at times, and they never believe me when I say something doesn’t hurt or whatever, because I am obviously a pain freak. Also, my mods can be a distraction — some clients are too busy staring at my earlobes to listen to what I am trying to tell them!
We carefully screen our employees before we hire them, and if we deem them to be too modified, we pass on them even if they are very skilled. We want our staff to reflect our clientele, and I know Maria really had to do some thinking before bringing me on because of my appearance.
I know it sounds a little judgmental coming from the standpoint of a heavily modified piercer working in the modification industry, but that’s the way it is with our shop, and I personally like the policy.
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| Stephen DeToma |
I absolutely think that it’s possible, but that’s not to say that it applies to all businesses. I think a large part of the equation involves the vision the owner of the hiring studio has for the business. It’s unlikely that a tattoo studio supplementing its monthly income through piercing would hire an individual with heavy, visual modifications. The studio I apprenticed in, which was largely a flash-based tattoo studio, fired a tattoo artist for tattooing his chin/lower lip area. I don’t think there’s any denying that there are people who operate tattoo and piercing studios across the country, people who modify people’s bodies on a daily basis, who are themselves uncomfortable with modified individuals.
It’s certainly putting all of your eggs in one basket to assume that simply because you have these modifications, you’ll be able to get a job piercing (or otherwise).
Region certainly will play a part. You may be too pierced to work at a mom and pop tattoo shop in Kansas, but the same person may have no problem finding work in Oregon, Austin or elsewhere. I think it’s important to point out that, while it’s each individual’s right to do with their body what they see fit, it’s a business owner’s right to build their business in the same manner, regardless of if anyone else likes it. A studio environment, for as relaxed and open as they typically are, is still a customer service based, retail environment that requires public interaction. Who do you cater to? Who is your client base? And what is their level of comfort?
Is it a question of approachability? The owner may be concerned with people’s ability or willingness to converse/have work done with someone bearing such strong mods. I think we all know that to judge a book by its cover is foolish, but the general public who do not operate on the same level we do from day to day, tend to shoot first and ask questions later.
Do the quality of the modifications come into play? Someone with a great deal of crooked, improperly placed piercings in their face for example, does not make a great spokesperson for the business. What about the subject matter? If you have a pentagram tattooed on your face or an upside down cross branded on your forehead, you’re sending a strong message without saying a word to potential employers.
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| Steve Truitt |
I think it would depend on the place they’re trying to work. Most tattoo artists are a lot more conservative in appearance than a lot of piercers, so I could see it harder for someone to get into tattooing if they look really extreme.
Many “normal” people are getting tattooed now because of TV shows like Miami and L.A. Ink. I could easily see a lot of those type of people getting scared away if they went to a studio and saw someone with giant horns and a huge plate in their lip, so if that’s the type of client a certain studio caters to, then it definitely wouldn’t work to have someone that looks that crazy working there.
On the other hand, personality can go a long way. I’ve seen quite a few heavily modified people that are extremely friendly and outgoing and have no problem making conversation and dealing with other people. Then I’ve seen a lot that are distant and withdrawn and they don’t seem to be able to relate to people and that can make people very uncomfortable, which wouldn’t be good for a working environment.
The quality of the work is also important to note. If someone is covered with very well done professional work, it shows. If they are covered in a bunch of crap they did themselves or at someone’s house or by someone who just sucks, it also shows and makes the person look that much more unprofessional. Also, if the work they have done is aesthetically pleasing to look at and fits the person then that person seems to have fewer problems dealing with people.
The Lizardman is a great example of this. Everything he has done is obviously professionally done and looks like it should be there. Nothing he has looks out of place or like it doesn’t belong on him. His intelligence and personality also play big roles in how his interactions with people go. Any time I’ve seen people meet him for the first time they go away saying, “Wow, I just met the Lizardman, he’s so cool,” etc. I’ve seen poeple meet other heavily modified people that aren’t as outgoing (I’m not going to name names here and offend anyone in particular) and walk away saying things like “Wow, that guy was crazy looking … what a freak! Why would he do that to himself? What’s wrong with him?”
So overall, it may not necessarily be that someone is too modified to work in a shop, but that they don’t fit in because of a combination of their mods and personality.
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| Ryan Ouellette |
I never ever in my life thought I’d get to a place where I could legitimately have a “kids these days” opinion on something, but here it is. Body modification, like all pop fashion, is just getting stupid. The problem is that “kids these days” don’t ease into modification, they jump in face first — pun intended. I don’t think that studios have a problem with modified employees, I think they have a problem with unprofessional-looking employees. In my studio we all have lots of visible mods, mostly tattoo sleeves, but I also have large gauge punched out conches, microdermals on my face, numerous piercings, yada yada. But I still consider myself to be professional-looking. As a studio owner myself, let’s say two people came into my studio with the exact same experience looking for a job. If both are heavily modified, but only one does it in a way that complements a professional look and mentality, then that’s the one I would want.
A lot of it has to do with clientele. You can look one way to do surface piercings for college kids, but you probably need to have a more subtle appearance to do $200 gemstone nostril piercings for older women. Most young people are just stupid, for lack of a better term, and they can’t imagine a world where they are 30 and need to pay a mortgage. They want to just live in their 17-year-old world and sell T-shirts at Hot Topic for $8/hour dreaming of the day they can be a super cool body piercer — and I would know. Because I did that.
I’m of the opinion that your hands/neck/face should not be tattooed or heavily modified until you have a steady career. I think that this is a profession where body modification should be embraced by both client and practitioner, but people should still treat it as a profession and try to maintain a respectable image.
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| John Joyce |
I don’t think it’s being too pierced, too tattooed, or too modified that keeps shop owners from hiring people. I think it’s being too covered in poorly done tattoos and piercings that keeps studio owners from hiring them.
For example: If a person has a lot of horribly done piercings or tattoos, or cheap jewelry all over their face, then it definitely doesn’t speak well for that particular person’s interest in the industry. If someone has taken the time to get 15 or 20 piercings, then by that point they should have enough interest in the art of body piercing to do some research. They should know the difference between a well placed piercing and one that looks like it was just smacked on with a dart gun. They should know the difference between a super shiny mirror finished Anatometal barbell and a dull piece from some mall store (*cough* Hot Topic *cough*). If they haven’t picked any of that up, then it shows that they really don’t care that much about this industry, or themselves for that matter, and I wouldn’t even waste my time interviewing the person. Now if someone walks in with 15-20 well placed piercings, all with super nice Anatometal, or Body Vision jewelry in them, I will immediately know that this person cares about their piercings, and put thought into them, because that’s exactly what I’d expect them to do with clients that they will be working with.
The same goes with someone looking for a tattoo apprenticeship. If you walk in and are covered with absolute shit, then it doesn’t speak very well about yourself.
The more interested you are in anything, whether it’s body piercing, tattooing or stamp collecting, the more research you should do on the subject. That research and your knowledge on the subject is what’s going to put you ahead of the 15 other people that have asked the studio owner for an apprenticeship that week.
It’s important for these people to remember that getting 15 piercings in two months, or stretching to two inches in six months, doesn’t impress a good piercer. It shows you are impatient, and not very responsible, and that is about it. The same can be said for kids getting their hands, throats, or even their faces tattooed before they have any other real coverage. It doesn’t impress a quality tattoo artist, and it doesn’t tell us you’re hard core, or more bad ass than your friends. What it does show is that you are impatient, and have put zero thought into the rest of your life.
There once was a time when tattoo artists wouldn’t do those things, and piercers cared more for their clientele. Unfortunately, this industry is full of rock stars and posting images that might make ModBlog seems to be more important these days.
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| Joy Rumore |
I do think that one can be “too modified” to work in a typical street shop.
A large portion of customers coming into street shops are first-timers. Most come in with groups of their friends. All minors come in with their parents if they are planning to get worked on. Before they even get into the shop, they are nervous. Often, extreme modifications or a large amount of modifications can make people more nervous if they aren’t used to being around them. Things that one is unfamiliar with are usually first interpreted as scary. They may project this view onto themselves and worry they will be classified as a “freak” even if they get a small, discrete piercing or tattoo. Some even think these heavily modified people couldn’t possibly be competent enough to perform a clean, safe procedure. Usually this is based on some fear that the practitioner must be mentally unstable or on drugs to think the way they look is acceptable and healthy.
If a minor or someone there with peers finds the extreme/multiple modifications attractive or interesting, they are often afraid to admit to their parents/peers that they are attracted to that kind of look because they will be be scolded or shunned. On top of that, parents may be more apprehensive about allowing their child to get a small piercing, viewing it as a “gateway drug” into looking like someone on the fringe of society and thus lessening their chances for a successful life. Most parents constantly strive to open doors for their children, not close them over something as “trivial” as a piercing.
Practitioners at specialty shops or custom/appointment-only shops tend to have better reactions to their heavy modifications because they are frequented by those in search of being heavily modified themselves. If those visiting specialty shops are not into heavy modification, they tend to expect seeing those who are extremely modified because these artists are often seen as “more serious” about their chosen lifestyle/career.
Day in and day out in every shop I’ve worked in (no matter what state), there are those who gasp and denounce what they see in our portfolios. I’ve always tried to educate those people and show them modifications on me so they can see that they are less scary or painful. I take more of an anthropological approach to these interactions. I explain the history and meaning behind the modifications. I try to compare personal body modification to more mainstream, accepted forms like cosmetic surgery, makeup and even haircuts. I don’t win them all, but I win most.
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| Ron Garza |
While I know many people will say no, I will answer with a resounding yes.
While it is true that people do come into a tattoo shop expecting to see the people working there somewhat covered in ink and some piercings, I don’t think having a very visibly modified staff is always needed or warranted. While yes, it is always better to speak from experience on things to clients, I don’t think the demand is that great for clients to know what having a one-inch lip or nostril hole is like to warrant so many people having them now.
Some cities are much more tattoo friendly than others – Denver, Atlanta, Austin and Seattle and Portland quickly come to mind. But then, traveling through parts of the south, mid west and east, the attitudes can be extremely different — even for just one-inch stretched lobes. In some of these communities where tattooing or piercing aren’t as prevalent as in other urban markets, I have personally witnessed staffs’ outward appearance actually intimidate potential clients and keep them from getting work or coming in. While some of us will all say we don’t do this for the money, we will all agree that no money sucks ass. So for the most part, we are doing it for survival, and are therefore doing it for the cash. Why alienate yourself further by losing all sense of resembling something somewhat human?
While I readily admit my views on the subject are more than a little biased from being visibly heavily tattooed and pierced for the better part of 15 years — and I do have respect for those that are “lifers” and are able to live life with visible heavy mods — I don’t think that life is for everyone, nor could it be. The thing separating individuals is the mental and emotional strength it takes to deal with public on a daily basis while being heavily modified. Many can’t deal with it mentally and I have personally known a few people that died at their own hands, in my opinion, because of it.
I used to want to tattoo my face (more), but I had promised my father, who already knew about my extremist nature, I wouldn’t tattoo my face until after he passed. At the time, I didn’t think I was going to make it past 21, much less be alive 16 years later, so I really wasn’t thinking of the future then, nor was my world view quite as encompassing as it is today, which definitely changed my outlook on things. I simply thought my father didn’t know the full depth of my passion for this.
What I didn’t understand was that he had the benefit of years of wisdom of being alive during very racially sensitive times and he knew first hand that division that exists in society for simply being different. For me to want to oust myself from that mainstream, on my own and on purpose, was something he couldn’t understand. Now that I have the benefit of a few years behind me, I can see the wisdom in his words.
The actual act of piercing is as old as man itself, and one can not deny the fact that for the most part, modification is a very western thing in today’s fashion circles in the USA and western Europe. Don’t get me wrong, there are enthusiasts in every culture and nation, but for the most part, piercing in the modern context that we know today is a very western idea. This was apparent to me while traveling through certain parts of Europe and not even receiving service at certain bars and restaurants because of my appearance.
I’m also in the process of having tattoos removed from my neck for the same reason. What means something to me can mean something completely different in another land, half way around the world. I was in Frankfurt, Germany, and got mistaken for a Nazi because of a tattoo on my neck that I received years ago. (I have a needle, barbell and captive bead ring in the shape of a Celtic cross on my neck.) What I didn’t know, but found out traveling through Germany (a culture highly aware of the sensitivity of Nazi symbolism that is lost here in the States), is that the Celtic cross has been adopted by some white nationalist, neo-Nazi and neo-fascist groups. Once I had it explained to me that a guy who winked at me and whispered what sounded like “Heil Himmler” in my ear probably actually thought I was part of one of those organizations, it became painfully to clear that what meant one thing to me, meant something completely different halfway around the world. Couple that with the fact that I was already a stranger in a strange land, an intruder into their country, and I didn’t see any reason to make myself stand out anymore than I already do with all my visible tattoo/modification work. I came back to the States and began laser tattoo removal sessions. I go back for my third treatment soon.
Another story that comes to mind is while traveling through Java and getting on packed trains — standing room only — on our way to see the presidential palace in the capitol of Bogor, we were singled out and had seats open next us, with everyone standing packed like sardines around us. It seemed no one wanted to sit next to the tattooed infidels. Even trying to buy water or bread at a stand was also a bit difficult, as they would just look through you and take the order of the person behind you, completely refusing to do business with someone who was clearly in violation of religious laws of the land with his physical appearance and attire. That doesn’t make you feel too good about the way you come off to others. Of course, being the asshole American and starting to yell or cause a scene would do no good, in addition to portraying me as an American stereotype that I don’t want to perpetuate. So, simply smiling and walking away mildly disgruntled is about all you can do. This was with me looking as normal as I can be, no piercings anywhere, and this was still the treatment I received. I can only imagine these people’s reactions if I had had a two-inch lip piercing or multiple sets of sub- or transdermal horns.
Of course, it wasn’t like this everywhere, but when it did happen, it only reinforced the fact that I was a visitor in their land. It was their home, not mine. I didn’t want to be overly intrusive or do anything to single me out any more than I already had with my very western way of walking, kneeling, dress and tattoos.
Because I’ve had these types of experiences that I feel so strongly about, and know what it’s like to be so visibly heavily modified — especially in another country, and since I don’t plan to live out my life here in America, my viewpoints may be a bit different from others’.
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| Derek Lowe |
Yes, it is possible to be “too modified” to work in a piercing/tattoo shop … at least to work in some piercing and tattoo shops. I don’t think it’s the rule by any means, but it is something I foresee happening more frequently over the next five years.
Just as with hair salons, clothing stores and restaurants (to name a few), there is an increasing diversity with regards to the style and “vibe” that shops are going for. Many new shops, and older shops who decide to remodel or move, are opting for more of a “spa” or “boutique” feel. I personally think this is a smart move, but I won’t bore anyone with my thoughts on that.
A studio with a “high-end” vibe is going to tend to attract a high-end client. That type of clientele, to put it quite bluntly, may not want to look at, let alone be touched by, people with facial tattoos, stretched nostril piercings and three inch earlobes, while getting their piercing or tattoo. Clearly there are giant doses of hypocrisy, ignorance and short-sightedness in that sort of outlook, but that’s the reality of the world where we live. While those of us in the “community” might not understand how someone could feel that way, many people do feel exactly that way about heavier, or abundant, modifications. As a service-oriented business, piercing and tattoo shops have to give some consideration to the experience and comfort level of their potential customers.
Gone are the days when a piercing or tattoo studio could treat people however they wanted, because there were so few shops that clients simply didn’t have other choices.
I think it’s more likely to find a “you’re too modified” stance at a studio that is owned by someone who isn’t a piercer or tattoo artist. A non-industry owner is likely going to look at things from more of a pure business perspective, where someone who is a piercer or tattoo artist is more likely to let their passion for their craft, and their personal feelings, influence their decisions, while potentially ignoring the ramifications those decisions might have on their business.
To completely rebuke what I just said, I should point out that I work at a very successful shop with more of a non-traditional atmosphere that is owned by a woman who is neither a piercer or tattoo artist. Over the years we have employed people who only had standard earlobe piercings on one end of the spectrum and people with full facial tattoos and half-inch nostril piercings at the other end of the spectrum.
For us it’s primarily about having the best person for the job, and not about how many modifications they do or don’t have. However, I won’t say that the extent, or the nature, of someone’s modifications will never ever influence a hiring a decision for us.
Anyone thinking that being heavily modified isn’t going to be an issue when it comes to finding a job, even as a piercer or tattoo artist, is potentially being a little naïve and short-sighted, in my opinion.
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| Allen Falkner |
The answer to this question is not nearly as black and white as you might think. In a perfect world the answer would be no, it is impossible to be too modified to work in tattoo/piercing shop. However, the answer is more complex and has a lot to do with customer relations and other qualities about the potential employee.
Let me give a quick example. Erik (Lizardman) Sprague, arguably one of the most heavily tattooed people in the world, could walk into almost any tattoo/piercing shop and get a job on the spot. Why? Well other than the fact that he’s highly intelligent and incredibly charismatic, he’s also very famous and would draw people into the shop. He’s a professional freak and this is part of his appeal. Would this work for another person? Maybe, maybe not. Like it or not, it all breaks down to the business’s clientele and how to appeal to people that walk through the door.
Yes, it’s true. People that seek out tattoos and piercings want the different and unusual. It really is the nature of the business and to a certain extent visible modifications are expected. I would even go so far as to say that, in most cases, it’s a prerequisite to work in a studio. That said, there is still a limit. People like the strange and the bizarre, but they don’t want to stray too far from their comfort zone. Does this mean someone with implanted horns and full facial tattooed can’t be excellent employees? No, far from it. The issue simply breaks down to what customers will accept. Most would agree that the tattoo/piercing community is more open-minded than most. However, even the most liberal aren’t always the most accepting.
What do you think? Let’s hear it in the comments.
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Comments
374 responses to “BME’s Big Question: #1”
it suck andstop postimg noonecares delsisous with a rainbow unbrella to read
……See why drugs fuck you up?…just say no 🙂
it suck andstop postimg noonecares delsisous with a rainbow unbrella to read
……See why drugs fuck you up?…just say no 🙂
Blueboy – it’s pretty impossible to be an artist in this industry for any length of time and NOT develop an interest in the business side of things – if you can’t pay your bills doing what you love, then you generally have to do something else for a living, no?
Blueboy – it’s pretty impossible to be an artist in this industry for any length of time and NOT develop an interest in the business side of things – if you can’t pay your bills doing what you love, then you generally have to do something else for a living, no?
I am 19 years old, I have 2 neck tattoos and a throat tattoo/other visible facial mod’s. I have thought long and hard about my modifications. I don’t think age has anything to do with it….18..47 what’s the difference? I am mature and well set in all decisions I make to modify myself. My line of work allows me to be myself and I would have it no other way. I am a freelance Photographer now and plan on attending college for four years. I knew at an early age where I wanted to take my life/ career, and again you could be 18 and be more mature than a 30 year old….sad but oh so true.
I am 19 years old, I have 2 neck tattoos and a throat tattoo/other visible facial mod’s. I have thought long and hard about my modifications. I don’t think age has anything to do with it….18..47 what’s the difference? I am mature and well set in all decisions I make to modify myself. My line of work allows me to be myself and I would have it no other way. I am a freelance Photographer now and plan on attending college for four years. I knew at an early age where I wanted to take my life/ career, and again you could be 18 and be more mature than a 30 year old….sad but oh so true.
Well, I think it depends on situation, I have worked in some countries and have experienced different things.
This is a funny experiment, get two guys, one full tattooed and one with “clean” skin, then wait for a client, and once he/she asks for a tattoo, let him choose his tattooist, surprise! He’s not going to take a look at his portfolio, he just wants to be tattooed by the ALL COVERED with tattoos guy…this happens about 80% times.
with piercing is so different…I have to agree with Meg, I’m not that modified, but people never stops looking at your lobes, or whenever they see your portfolio, you can hear things like:
OMG!
OH SHIT! <————OH SHIT!!!
OH OH OH IT HURTS OH OH NO!
OH GOD; why people do this!?
OH! GROSSSS
JODER MACHO ESTO ES MUY FUERTE TIO!
tio pero como te haces eso en la polla!?
(no blood on pictures)
I usually try to explain people everything they ask for, but each mind is different, I have an ex girlfriend and 10 years later she still doesn’t understand why I do suspensions, and I’m sure she will never understand. You can’t change your points of view if you have grown with restrictions, etc etc.
now you have to choose between your body and lifestyle or the business, if you think your appearence is something basic for your work, then do what you have to, but please, I have visited studios with piercers with LOTS of red, crusties and rejecting piercings, blowed out lobes, dirty nails, etc…and this is obvious, you will never get a customer with this aspect! is unsafe, lacks of cleanliness…
Well, I think it depends on situation, I have worked in some countries and have experienced different things.
This is a funny experiment, get two guys, one full tattooed and one with “clean” skin, then wait for a client, and once he/she asks for a tattoo, let him choose his tattooist, surprise! He’s not going to take a look at his portfolio, he just wants to be tattooed by the ALL COVERED with tattoos guy…this happens about 80% times.
with piercing is so different…I have to agree with Meg, I’m not that modified, but people never stops looking at your lobes, or whenever they see your portfolio, you can hear things like:
OMG!
OH SHIT! <————OH SHIT!!!
OH OH OH IT HURTS OH OH NO!
OH GOD; why people do this!?
OH! GROSSSS
JODER MACHO ESTO ES MUY FUERTE TIO!
tio pero como te haces eso en la polla!?
(no blood on pictures)
I usually try to explain people everything they ask for, but each mind is different, I have an ex girlfriend and 10 years later she still doesn’t understand why I do suspensions, and I’m sure she will never understand. You can’t change your points of view if you have grown with restrictions, etc etc.
now you have to choose between your body and lifestyle or the business, if you think your appearence is something basic for your work, then do what you have to, but please, I have visited studios with piercers with LOTS of red, crusties and rejecting piercings, blowed out lobes, dirty nails, etc…and this is obvious, you will never get a customer with this aspect! is unsafe, lacks of cleanliness…
BlueBoy:
We ARE business people.
When I go to work, yes, I do piercings and general installations and stuff, BUT.. I also process client orders, handle computer related issues, deal with some of the monetary happenings, make bank deposits, set up the store, work closely with the owner on making orders, answer client inquiries and emails through our website, and other “business” like duties.
As Lori said.. in this industry, you DO develop an interest in the business side. Whether you are an independant contractor through a company, or an on the books employee, you do see the different sides of the business, and at some point you will realize one important truth.
Just because we are working in an unconventional industry, we are still expected to run our business in a professional manner.. no different than the most mainstream boutique on the block.
I first and foremost DO consider myself a piercer, but I also take the role of business professional as well.
BlueBoy:
We ARE business people.
When I go to work, yes, I do piercings and general installations and stuff, BUT.. I also process client orders, handle computer related issues, deal with some of the monetary happenings, make bank deposits, set up the store, work closely with the owner on making orders, answer client inquiries and emails through our website, and other “business” like duties.
As Lori said.. in this industry, you DO develop an interest in the business side. Whether you are an independant contractor through a company, or an on the books employee, you do see the different sides of the business, and at some point you will realize one important truth.
Just because we are working in an unconventional industry, we are still expected to run our business in a professional manner.. no different than the most mainstream boutique on the block.
I first and foremost DO consider myself a piercer, but I also take the role of business professional as well.
#9
#9
I met bradly in real life once and I have to admitt, He’s right ….” we are still expected ” posted by MEG
Living to meet others expectation’s can damage one’s true self ~OM~
I met bradly in real life once and I have to admitt, He’s right ….” we are still expected ” posted by MEG
Living to meet others expectation’s can damage one’s true self ~OM~
Im done posting here just way to many fake wannab bee fit in’s not ervery1 just u Bye bradly
Im done posting here just way to many fake wannab bee fit in’s not ervery1 just u Bye bradly
Real world, Nursery and landscape design customer service, 3/4″ lobes, Full sleaves, legs heavily, punched conches, hands and side neck tattooes = ok so far, the septum has to be flipped up thats what really scared em in northern virginia a 6g septum WOW
Real world, Nursery and landscape design customer service, 3/4″ lobes, Full sleaves, legs heavily, punched conches, hands and side neck tattooes = ok so far, the septum has to be flipped up thats what really scared em in northern virginia a 6g septum WOW
Awesome. I’m definitely one of those “young dumb kids.” I’m 17, and I’ve got 5/8″ lobes, a 4g philtrum, 2g conches, and 8g nostrils. But guess what? I work a full time job. I deal with customers all day. I do tech support over the phone, and in person. My appearance hasn’t messed anything up. Some people see me and are a little apprehensive at first, but when I fix the problems that’s stopping their business, they realize I’m not stupid and really enjoy my company. It’s not ALL about attitude, but a really large majority of it is.
The office in which I work is an extremely professional environment. Most of our customers are 40-60 year old men. Something I’ve noticed about them is that a lot of these guys don’t care what I look like. It’s mainly people who are in their late twenties through late thirties. They’re really becoming the one thing they used to hate, and it makes me pretty sad.
Sure, I’ll probably be criticized for posting this, but it’s not like it matters. I know that I’ve got healthy modifications. I know that if I really needed to, I could support myself with absolutely no help from my parents, and I believe that’s what separates me from everyone else. I may have visible modifications, and I may be young, but that doesn’t make me immature or unable to see that things may change in the future. Yeah, things will probably happen at one point, and I’ll need to get a different job, but what’s the point of even trying to get a job if you won’t be accepted for who you are? I used to want to be a piercer, I did for 3 years, but after seeing how some of the most highly revered practicioners act, I was turned off. I don’t want to work with other people who will constantly judge me.
Awesome. I’m definitely one of those “young dumb kids.” I’m 17, and I’ve got 5/8″ lobes, a 4g philtrum, 2g conches, and 8g nostrils. But guess what? I work a full time job. I deal with customers all day. I do tech support over the phone, and in person. My appearance hasn’t messed anything up. Some people see me and are a little apprehensive at first, but when I fix the problems that’s stopping their business, they realize I’m not stupid and really enjoy my company. It’s not ALL about attitude, but a really large majority of it is.
The office in which I work is an extremely professional environment. Most of our customers are 40-60 year old men. Something I’ve noticed about them is that a lot of these guys don’t care what I look like. It’s mainly people who are in their late twenties through late thirties. They’re really becoming the one thing they used to hate, and it makes me pretty sad.
Sure, I’ll probably be criticized for posting this, but it’s not like it matters. I know that I’ve got healthy modifications. I know that if I really needed to, I could support myself with absolutely no help from my parents, and I believe that’s what separates me from everyone else. I may have visible modifications, and I may be young, but that doesn’t make me immature or unable to see that things may change in the future. Yeah, things will probably happen at one point, and I’ll need to get a different job, but what’s the point of even trying to get a job if you won’t be accepted for who you are? I used to want to be a piercer, I did for 3 years, but after seeing how some of the most highly revered practicioners act, I was turned off. I don’t want to work with other people who will constantly judge me.
As a very heavily modified piercer (numerous facial implants, facial scarring and heavy gauge piercings) in the Australian industry, I feel that most of the views displayed here are quite accurate.
I get more positive feed-back from my customers about my self that I do negative, however I believe it is because I am a very easily approachable person and always first greet new customers with a smile.
A good smile can easily overcome the craziest mods and put a customer at ease instantly, the same way that a ‘clean’ individual will push-away a customer if they appear in a bad mood.
I know for sure that I would not have made it as far as I have without this personal trait and acknowledge that most people view me as ‘a bit overboard’ (this includes other artists in my studio).
I think in a retail industry (say what you will, mod shops=retail) its more about personality and then secondly appearance.
As a very heavily modified piercer (numerous facial implants, facial scarring and heavy gauge piercings) in the Australian industry, I feel that most of the views displayed here are quite accurate.
I get more positive feed-back from my customers about my self that I do negative, however I believe it is because I am a very easily approachable person and always first greet new customers with a smile.
A good smile can easily overcome the craziest mods and put a customer at ease instantly, the same way that a ‘clean’ individual will push-away a customer if they appear in a bad mood.
I know for sure that I would not have made it as far as I have without this personal trait and acknowledge that most people view me as ‘a bit overboard’ (this includes other artists in my studio).
I think in a retail industry (say what you will, mod shops=retail) its more about personality and then secondly appearance.
No one is saying don’t get your face tattooed. We’re ALL just saying that you need to face the ramifications of your actions. Over the last few years BME has been a ‘reality bubble’ where the downsides to a lot of these decisions were glossed over or covered up. I’m really glad to see that the older generation is finally taking an interest and putting a counter opinion out there.
And it’s the luxury of youth to think that you’re mature enough to make these decisions and that you have every right to do what you want. We all thought that, too. And now I’m just glad that Decker is here to remove my lobes, Allen is here to laser off those mistakes…
No one is saying don’t get your face tattooed. We’re ALL just saying that you need to face the ramifications of your actions. Over the last few years BME has been a ‘reality bubble’ where the downsides to a lot of these decisions were glossed over or covered up. I’m really glad to see that the older generation is finally taking an interest and putting a counter opinion out there.
And it’s the luxury of youth to think that you’re mature enough to make these decisions and that you have every right to do what you want. We all thought that, too. And now I’m just glad that Decker is here to remove my lobes, Allen is here to laser off those mistakes…
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Oh you crazy kids.
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Oh you crazy kids.
“Young dumb kids” with good jobs: You’re either very intelligent or lucky. Don’t fool yourself, or your peers, into thinking that the world is your oyster.
“Young dumb kids” with good jobs: You’re either very intelligent or lucky. Don’t fool yourself, or your peers, into thinking that the world is your oyster.
you guys are awesome 🙂
you guys are awesome 🙂
as a person im reasonably well modified, i have 65mm lobes and 10 facial piercings including a 10mm labret, and various others, but again as with alot of aspects in the piercing and tattooing industry its not what you have it, its about HOW you wear it.
i’ve been around this trade for more years than i care to think considering my age, and have meet thousands of ppl in it, around it, looking on at it and can recount on 1 hand the amount of negative comments ive had, but mainly its positive and that most view my piercings as “well suited to me”
we see too many kids that shove 10 lip piercings in and wear massive ball closure rings in them and they look messy, therefore they don’t get a start as they have no concept of artistic integrity, or placement. you get the others who look dirty as they are just cluttered in rings balls and stuff but hey thats up to them.
and at the end of the day customers will come to you should you have loads of mods and are good at your job!
one thing i hate though are kids that wack their ears up to daft mm and they are blown out and fucked, basically mods should be a labour of love and few get it. also too many don’t think of the consequences of their actions.
for me mods are mt business and thats why i’ve got them if i was a bank manager id not have as many!
as a person im reasonably well modified, i have 65mm lobes and 10 facial piercings including a 10mm labret, and various others, but again as with alot of aspects in the piercing and tattooing industry its not what you have it, its about HOW you wear it.
i’ve been around this trade for more years than i care to think considering my age, and have meet thousands of ppl in it, around it, looking on at it and can recount on 1 hand the amount of negative comments ive had, but mainly its positive and that most view my piercings as “well suited to me”
we see too many kids that shove 10 lip piercings in and wear massive ball closure rings in them and they look messy, therefore they don’t get a start as they have no concept of artistic integrity, or placement. you get the others who look dirty as they are just cluttered in rings balls and stuff but hey thats up to them.
and at the end of the day customers will come to you should you have loads of mods and are good at your job!
one thing i hate though are kids that wack their ears up to daft mm and they are blown out and fucked, basically mods should be a labour of love and few get it. also too many don’t think of the consequences of their actions.
for me mods are mt business and thats why i’ve got them if i was a bank manager id not have as many!
I totally agree with Porter and company. I know the ramifications to looking the way that I do, and know that I can almost count on not getting work at some tattoo shops. Luckily, all my “mistakes” are not visible and are easily covered only showing the better quality work that people acknowledge. You can be too “modified” to work at a shop, and as with every aspect of your entire life will be changed by visibly modifying your body…with that said, why would career and profession not be affected? IT IS and WILL BE!
I totally agree with Porter and company. I know the ramifications to looking the way that I do, and know that I can almost count on not getting work at some tattoo shops. Luckily, all my “mistakes” are not visible and are easily covered only showing the better quality work that people acknowledge. You can be too “modified” to work at a shop, and as with every aspect of your entire life will be changed by visibly modifying your body…with that said, why would career and profession not be affected? IT IS and WILL BE!
Blueboy, they probably sound like business people because they are business people. Although, yes, body modification is an art, they also need to run a successful business. How else would they afford to keep providing their artistic skills for people? Artist and business person are not mutually exclusive. I think a look at any of their portfolios would tell you that.
Blueboy, they probably sound like business people because they are business people. Although, yes, body modification is an art, they also need to run a successful business. How else would they afford to keep providing their artistic skills for people? Artist and business person are not mutually exclusive. I think a look at any of their portfolios would tell you that.
I love it when people say ridiculous thing like “you’re only concerned about money”. Um….no.
I chose to only put the highest quality jewelry available in my clients. If I was only worried about the money, I’d be buying 15 cent Taiwan barbells and still charging the same amount and make a killing. If I was only worried about the money, I wouldn’t spend the money to spore test my both my autoclaves once a week. If I was only concerned about the money, our shop wouldn’t offer health insurance benefits to the piercers and tattoos artists. If money was the only concern, I would pay my piercers and tattoo artists significantly less than I do. And the list goes on.
Dong things like that cost money…and a lot of it. We all work for/own/manage small business, not large corporations with millions of dollars to spend. To imply that we shouldn’t worry about how are businesses are run is just plain ignorant.
I love it when people say ridiculous thing like “you’re only concerned about money”. Um….no.
I chose to only put the highest quality jewelry available in my clients. If I was only worried about the money, I’d be buying 15 cent Taiwan barbells and still charging the same amount and make a killing. If I was only worried about the money, I wouldn’t spend the money to spore test my both my autoclaves once a week. If I was only concerned about the money, our shop wouldn’t offer health insurance benefits to the piercers and tattoos artists. If money was the only concern, I would pay my piercers and tattoo artists significantly less than I do. And the list goes on.
Dong things like that cost money…and a lot of it. We all work for/own/manage small business, not large corporations with millions of dollars to spend. To imply that we shouldn’t worry about how are businesses are run is just plain ignorant.
# 59 (Eric) You have one of the best posts here I thank you for sticking up for us (young mature smart kids)
# 59 (Eric) You have one of the best posts here I thank you for sticking up for us (young mature smart kids)
I loved reading everyone’s opinions on this matter. Personally, I have to say from experience that It is equally the quality of your work, that you have at least some visible work, and your ability to work with customers eloquently and intellectually.
Though I don’t consider myself “heavily” modified, many of the customers I had would put me in that category. Both shops I have worked out of have been small town street shops where most clientele would be interested in sparkly navel piercings, butterfly tattoos, and 9-11 Memorials. The one gentleman working in the shop who was far more tattooed than the owner and I, was the best at bringing in clients and selling them on better ideas than they had come in with, as it is our job to make a piece the best it can be. He was very charismatic and polite and easy to talk to.
I am much more soft spoken and I think that helped me out a lot because of all the facial piercings that I have. Customers would tell me that they were slightly intimidated by my appearance until they talked to me and then felt perfectly comfortable for me to work on them and answer any of the annoying yet expected questions they had about my piercings.
The owner had no visible modifications except for 5/8” lobes. She had no bedside manner, an introverted personality that would scare most people away, and would get annoyed when potential customers asked her where all her tattoos were and that it was funny that they often had significantly more work than she had. All she had was a small piece on her shoulders that was always covered by her shirt. Many customers decided thay would rather have me or the other guy work on them, understandably.
I have also noticed that at least one poorly done piece can be helpful ( though of course, no one wants that) to show a customer why certain things just can’t be done. Several times I’ve had to use a piece on my arm to show people why sometimes lines can’t be so close or why size often times does matter and that you shouldn’t be able to feel your tattoo! Though the bad work is a burden on me, it has come in handy !
I loved reading everyone’s opinions on this matter. Personally, I have to say from experience that It is equally the quality of your work, that you have at least some visible work, and your ability to work with customers eloquently and intellectually.
Though I don’t consider myself “heavily” modified, many of the customers I had would put me in that category. Both shops I have worked out of have been small town street shops where most clientele would be interested in sparkly navel piercings, butterfly tattoos, and 9-11 Memorials. The one gentleman working in the shop who was far more tattooed than the owner and I, was the best at bringing in clients and selling them on better ideas than they had come in with, as it is our job to make a piece the best it can be. He was very charismatic and polite and easy to talk to.
I am much more soft spoken and I think that helped me out a lot because of all the facial piercings that I have. Customers would tell me that they were slightly intimidated by my appearance until they talked to me and then felt perfectly comfortable for me to work on them and answer any of the annoying yet expected questions they had about my piercings.
The owner had no visible modifications except for 5/8” lobes. She had no bedside manner, an introverted personality that would scare most people away, and would get annoyed when potential customers asked her where all her tattoos were and that it was funny that they often had significantly more work than she had. All she had was a small piece on her shoulders that was always covered by her shirt. Many customers decided thay would rather have me or the other guy work on them, understandably.
I have also noticed that at least one poorly done piece can be helpful ( though of course, no one wants that) to show a customer why certain things just can’t be done. Several times I’ve had to use a piece on my arm to show people why sometimes lines can’t be so close or why size often times does matter and that you shouldn’t be able to feel your tattoo! Though the bad work is a burden on me, it has come in handy !
#63 I consider myself a (young smart very talented kid) not (young dumb kid) who has worked extremely hard for what I want in life. The world is rarely anybodies oyster you have to make it so. Age is so irrelevant you could have a 25 year old and a 18 year old and the 18 year old could be completely more mature than the 25 year old. All I am saying is not to judge younger modified persons by age rather than by personality…attitude. You can learn a whole lot by conversing with someone. And as # 59 (Eric) has stated…. “what’s the point of even trying to get a job if you won’t be accepted for who you are”? – “I don’t want to work with other people who will constantly judge me”. If you have any doubts in your mind..that what your doing to your body mite one day be “unacceptable” then the world of modification is not for you my friend.
#63 I consider myself a (young smart very talented kid) not (young dumb kid) who has worked extremely hard for what I want in life. The world is rarely anybodies oyster you have to make it so. Age is so irrelevant you could have a 25 year old and a 18 year old and the 18 year old could be completely more mature than the 25 year old. All I am saying is not to judge younger modified persons by age rather than by personality…attitude. You can learn a whole lot by conversing with someone. And as # 59 (Eric) has stated…. “what’s the point of even trying to get a job if you won’t be accepted for who you are”? – “I don’t want to work with other people who will constantly judge me”. If you have any doubts in your mind..that what your doing to your body mite one day be “unacceptable” then the world of modification is not for you my friend.
I’ve got my job because I’m intelligent. I was chosen over other people because I’ve worked hard in the past. I guess the point I’m really trying to get across is that not every young person is just looking at the now. Some of realize that life will be harder, and we’re willing to work that much harder just to prove that we can make it despite our appearance. I know that people judge me for how I look, and I’m proud of the fact that I don’t fit their stereotypes.
Maybe I’m just being a teenager, which I’m sure you’ll assume, but I’m content with all my decisions I’ve made over my body in the past. I don’t plan on changing that.
I’ve got my job because I’m intelligent. I was chosen over other people because I’ve worked hard in the past. I guess the point I’m really trying to get across is that not every young person is just looking at the now. Some of realize that life will be harder, and we’re willing to work that much harder just to prove that we can make it despite our appearance. I know that people judge me for how I look, and I’m proud of the fact that I don’t fit their stereotypes.
Maybe I’m just being a teenager, which I’m sure you’ll assume, but I’m content with all my decisions I’ve made over my body in the past. I don’t plan on changing that.
I’m not sure there’s too much to add to this, it would seem everyones firmly rooted in their opinions and pretty much all the major points have already been stated a few times. But i will say that as a 21 year old with stretched ears, a moko, and scarification on my forehead, I’ll say there has been few to no negative repercussions in my decisions. I got my neck and hands tattooed at 19 for personal reasons and choices. No, I didn’t know I was going to end up in a tattoo parlor. I was a swim instructor for very young children, as well as being published in various magazines and whatnot for fiction pieces. I’m not trying to win a medal here, but more stating I never once felt limited; I am a college drop out, and no, I will never work in a law office or on wall-street. I may be young, but I’ve got a good head on my shoulders, and a consistency in my personality thus far in life. Should my career as a piercer not last as long as I hope, I have complete faith in the world and in myself that I will land another job.
If you are looking for piles of money and a vacation house in the hamptons, you might want to give it a 2nd thought. But I know for me, going to work everyday and loving what i do is my priority. I can’t do something I dont love with all my heart. Modification for me has been with me my whole life, starting from being in a stroller pointing to every tattooed and pierced person that walked by. I know my personal modifications are done for myself and only myself, and I would never compromise making myself happy through it for a job, for fear of placement in society, of someone’s reaction, etc.
I would like to think my work and my bedside manner and people skills would unlock any door I might go to in this industry; if it doesn’t, then so be it. But I know i’m happy and secure in my decisions, and since I stay firmly rooted in the present, thats good enough for me.
I’m not sure there’s too much to add to this, it would seem everyones firmly rooted in their opinions and pretty much all the major points have already been stated a few times. But i will say that as a 21 year old with stretched ears, a moko, and scarification on my forehead, I’ll say there has been few to no negative repercussions in my decisions. I got my neck and hands tattooed at 19 for personal reasons and choices. No, I didn’t know I was going to end up in a tattoo parlor. I was a swim instructor for very young children, as well as being published in various magazines and whatnot for fiction pieces. I’m not trying to win a medal here, but more stating I never once felt limited; I am a college drop out, and no, I will never work in a law office or on wall-street. I may be young, but I’ve got a good head on my shoulders, and a consistency in my personality thus far in life. Should my career as a piercer not last as long as I hope, I have complete faith in the world and in myself that I will land another job.
If you are looking for piles of money and a vacation house in the hamptons, you might want to give it a 2nd thought. But I know for me, going to work everyday and loving what i do is my priority. I can’t do something I dont love with all my heart. Modification for me has been with me my whole life, starting from being in a stroller pointing to every tattooed and pierced person that walked by. I know my personal modifications are done for myself and only myself, and I would never compromise making myself happy through it for a job, for fear of placement in society, of someone’s reaction, etc.
I would like to think my work and my bedside manner and people skills would unlock any door I might go to in this industry; if it doesn’t, then so be it. But I know i’m happy and secure in my decisions, and since I stay firmly rooted in the present, thats good enough for me.
I really enjoyed reading this…
I really enjoyed reading this…