I’ve learned there are some things that just aren’t worth trying to debate on the internet, especially when it comes to tattoos. Some of these things include:

• If tattoos of gypsies, American Indians, hula girls or geisha are racist

• If my there’s something wrong with being uncomfortable with the reclamation of the swastika as a result of my “Western-centric upbringing”

• If getting pissed about tattoo-centric reality TV on Facebook actually does anything

It seems safe to add people not in Russian prisons getting Russian prison tattoos to that list, too.

But I will say is these reinterpretations, most of which seem to be coming out of Europe, are eye-catching, interesting, and enjoyable to look at–provided you do not mentally associate them with their original meanings.

Tattoo by Miss Arianna at Skinwear Tattoo in Rimini, Italy

I’m not sure how many of you can reasonably anticipate being in Rome tomorrow – but if you have the chance, check out VIS DEARUM at Mondo Bizzarro Gallery in Rome.  Translated literally as “The Goddess’ Force”, this show involves 18 artists, 18 female tattooers, and their representations of 18 goddesses. More information can be found on Facebook.

Artists featured include:

• Rose Hardy (Australia)
• Stephanie Tamez (USA)
• Cecilia Granata (Italy)
• Horiren (Japan)
• Claudia De Sabe (UK)
• Deborah Necci (Italy)
• Viola Von Hell (Italy)
• Genziana (Italy)
• Miss Arianna (Italy)
• Maria Roca (Spain)
• Angelique Houtkamp (The Netherlands)
• Morg (Italy)
• Anita Rossi (Italy)
• Tiziana Sawyer (The Netherlands/USA)
• Jo Harrison (UK)
• Chantale Coady (UK)
• Louise Schiffmacher (The Netherlands)
• Morrison Schiffmacher (The Netherlands)

Despite the fact we are not strictly a traditional tattoo blog, we do still appreciate good traditional tattoo work. Know what else I appreciate? A foreign tattooer with lots of information readily available about themselves, like Miss Arianna. Don’t get me wrong, I like flexing my Google powers on occasion… but sometimes, it’s cool when you guys make it easy for me to do you justice.

Traditional is my favourite tattoo style maybe ‘cause it’s like me: direct, clear and solid. It has a strenght and a stability not easy to find in others styles. It’s a real tattoo! With traditional you can to express everything and it’s perfect with words of love or war… Ilove this romantic side of tattoo!

It’s with no doubt the style that satisfy me the most: both technically and graphically.

Tattoo by Miss Arianna at Skinwear Tattoo in Remini, Italy