She grew up in a family that was both supportive and encouraging of tattoo culture. Now she has three.

Rachel Moore, a junior international relations, political science and television, radio and film triple major, got her first tattoo when she was 18.

“A tattoo is like an investment in artwork. If you are getting them, you are signing on to take care of them and to take care of your body for the rest of your life,” she said.

Her father, who has ink of his own, funded her first piece. The tattoo — a compass rose centered on her upper spine — circularly displays the Latin words “vita est pro fortis” translating to “life is for the brave.” Her second piece is smaller, located on the side of her rib cage. It reads “nunc adsum” or “I’m here now.”

Her most recent work of art, however, is the show stealer. A sirenesque black ink mermaid graces the right side of her back. This piece of art was the product of Mike “The Face” Grant of Saint Sabrina’s, a tattoo parlor in Minneapolis, Minn.

Moore said she played an active part in designing the tattoo. She researched characteristics of mermaids, choosing every detail down to the scales on the fin.

After collaborating with Mike, she spent 75 minutes at the parlor getting the tattoo, which she described as her most painful tattoo experience thus far.

Though she realized it would be unpleasant, Moore said she chose this part of her back because the shape of the skin isn’t one that will evolve with time. The piece should still hold the mesmerizing mermaid 50 years from now.

Moore said she’s always loved the ocean — its inhabitants, its mystery and the ideas it symbolizes.

Though she loves the Disney classic “The Little Mermaid,” Moore said the historical myths surrounding less cartoony mermaids hold the true meaning to her tattoo, such as the topic’s vast folklore. Mermaids are universally seen as mysterious beauties, Moore said, who may seem like any sailor’s dream but hold the ability to lure them into oblivion. Though such activities are not on Moore’s agenda, she described the piece as her “empowered woman tattoo” because it embodies some of her personal values, one being independence.

With an appointment already scheduled for another tattoo, Moore said she sees her pieces as a journal. Even with the inevitability of time, she realizes the importance of remembering what was meaningful to her at different chapters during her life.

“They are keeping track of mental and emotional phases,” Moore said.

So, what lies ahead for her mermaid? As with all journeys, the future is rather nebulous, but a vision does exist. The nautical theme will continue, Moore said, with hopes to tie everything together with the compass, reminiscent of old world maps and travels.

Published on August 26, 2013 at 10:55 pm

Contact Naomi: ncfalk@syr.edu