The origin of the word ‘tattoo’ is derived from the Polynesian word ta which means striking something and the second origin is also from the Tahitian word tatau which means ‘to mark something’. Although this explains the origin of the word it is not where the practice originated from. The practice of using pigments to create tatoos is thought to have begun as early as 5,000 B.C. 

The practice of tattooing has evolved from that of a rebellious activity or an indicator of anti-social behaviour in the 1960s transcended to a fashion statement in the 1990s. Iconic figures in the music industry brought the idea of inking one's body to the masses. An example of this is the music group the Rolling Stones in the early 1970s. Tattooing had, by the late 1980s, become accepted by ever broader segments of the populous. As you look at the sports and entertainment industries the use of tatoos is prolific. Media images of rock stars, professional sports figures, ice skating champions, fashion models, movie stars and other public figures often highlight their tatoos. 

The gradual acceptance of tatoos in mainstream society evolved from the 1960's to the 1990's. The acceptance of models with tatoos increased with acceptance by the arts and fashion community with an increasing exposure to their celebrity clients. Today the tatoo is mainstream and accepted as an art form. 

Showing the blended world of fashion and ink is the model Kehli G.

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Watsonphotography.ca creates unique images of fashion, models, people, travel, nature and racing sports by Toronto photographer Peter Watson.

Credits:

Model and MUA: Kehli G

Studio: Pink Panther

Photography: Peter Watson

Post Processing: Peter Watson