Long time lurker, new member

[LizBee]

Hello, all.

I've been studying threads and doing research for a year or so, and finally decided to go ahead and join as I come closer to making my next tattoo a reality.

I've got my children's names tattooed around one ankle (needs freshening up after 14 years) and recently had some 15-year-old Kanji around my other ankle covered up with a fancy goldfish/koi hybrid. The Kanji had gotten blurry and blotchy and I was just not feeling it anymore, and though I'm pleased with the new tattoo I learned quite a bit in the process. What I like, what I don't, and how the end product might look different than the stencil after background and color is filled in.

I'm designing a shoulder cap piece now, and have a folk art botanical concept in mind now (like German or Dutch folk art flowers), and will be working with Katie Davis at Salvation Tattoo here in Richmond. I love her clean outlining and use of color as well as negative space for contrast, with a traditional feel. This lends itself very well to what I have in mind, and I'm excited about proceeding this summer. There are some truly excellent tattoo artists in Richmond, so I feel fortunate to have a selection right here in my home town.

Anyone with an internet connection can do their research and think they know about tattooing, but the more I learn, the less I realize I know about it. It is a fascinating art form and as a fan of counter-culture (I'm a punk from the 80s - semi-retired from the scene, lol) I'm excited to contemplate my tattoo journey. I don't see myself stopping anytime soon, now that my kids are older and I can concentrate more on what I want for myself.

BTW, I am a complete and total freshwater aquarium geek, in the hobby in a major way for 30 years, and have an aquarium forum currently. I have also moderated and admin'd on various aquarium forums since the 90s, and running forums ain't easy. I have to say this forum is extremely well run and nonsense is not tolerated. Kudos to LST for maintaining high standards and providing such a wonderful resource for us!

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Edited March 29, 2015 by LizBee
pics added

[jen7]

Welcome! 20 year aquarium geek here, also modded aquarium forums over the years.

[misterJ]

Power to the fish geeks.

Big reef nerd but love freshwater also

I like your cover up and welcome