Larrison Funeral Home

But for many, it is a blank canvas, a painting waiting to be created. “I feel like tattoos are becoming more about the art,” says Chase Taylor, owner of Omega Tattoos in Wood River. “People are always trying to take it to the next level, being bigger and bolder and (creating) much more vibrant pieces of art.” While the current state of the industry is definitely encouraging the extravagant, Laura Rider, owner of Body Treasures in Alton, says individuality is also crucial when talking about such a long-term investment. “Trends are always changing; (don’t) follow popular trends when getting a tattoo. We recommend getting a tattoo custom-drawn that you can be happy with forever, while the trends come and go.” Artists who make the human body both their muse and canvas will honor their art form as National Tattoo Day is observed July 17. At one time, it was the common thought that only gangs, criminals, and sailors got tattoos. In the modern era, adults from all ages and walks of life seek out creative designs for their skin as a way to celebrate their retirement, remember a loved one, and declare their individuality. Some even choose a wedding band tattoo instead of a more traditional ring of love, perhaps symbolizing a higher level of commitment or making it harder to remove or disguise if one chooses to stray, depending on which viewpoint you take. Throughout history, the art of tattooing has sometimes been a symbol of distinction and honor, other times a representation of shame and evil. For the modern era, the tattoo gun (first designed by Thomas Edison in 1876 and perfected a few years later by Samuel O’Reilly) created a colorful new world for those interested in becoming their own art form. Tattooing gained popularity in the United States around 1891 when the world’s first professional tattoo artist, Martin Hildebrandt, set up his studio in New York City’s Chatham Square. That is considered to be the birthplace of the American-style tattoo, and the Riverbend and surrounding areas to...