From the skin: how tattoos tell our history

From the skin: how tattoos tell our history

Every person's skin tells its own story - be it small scars that arouse memories of adventure, or impressive tattoos that hold life events and emotions. In a special campaign, we invited our readers to tell us about the stories behind their body artwork. From meaningful symbols to humorous motifs - the diversity is impressive.

Christine Cox, the former Aachener, had her first tattoo stabbed in the prestigious studio "Magic Moon" at the age of 18. A sun motif that proudly wore it has become pale over the years and no longer looked as appealing. In order to take into account the memory of a difficult phase in her life, she decided to cover the old tattoo. Music, which is of great importance for you, should adorn the new motif - a cassette recording with the inscription "Sing your life". This decision shows how tattoos are not only works of art, but also an expression of personal experiences.

The variety of meanings

with Sonja Kohnen, software developer from Aachen, the search for the perfect tattoo became a passionate journey. Inspired by a Ghibli film, now adorns a motif with two soot. Her enthusiasm for Chihiro's adventure, which she has accompanied for decades, is now symbolized by this tattoo forever. "I am happy every time I see it," admits the 41-year-old, who even thinks about expanding the motif.

Daniel Janshoff from Baesweiler has several tattoos that are deeply rooted in his life story. His body art tells of his children, the love of music and emotional challenges in his life. The saying "My Life, My Rights" is supposed to remind him of his strength. Every picture, every symbol on its skin stands for a moment or a message that has shaped it, from the heights to the depths.

A particularly individual tattoo has Stefanie Aslan from Übach-Palenberg. The star image of the virgin is emblazoned on her hand, which she combined with a filigree iron atom. These two symbols are not only beauty features, but also an expression of their passion for the series "The Big Bang Theory" and the rock band Iron Maiden.

The emotional connection to a loved one shows in the history of Sabine Schulz. She had the portrait of her "soul dog" immortalized Mary-Lou on her upper arm after looking for a suitable tattoo artist for a long time. The memories of her loyal companion now stay with her forever.

Another remarkable example is Beatrix Lenzen. At the age of 50 she had her first tattoo sting, a hibiscus that symbolizes her love for Malaysia. Courageous and impulsive at this age, she shows that it is never too late to go your own way and express yourself artistically.

These stories illustrate how tattoos are much more than just decoration. They are a look into the soul of the people they wear and reflect their experiences, hopes and memories. The skin becomes a personal diary that visibly tells the history of life for everyone.