Topic: Tattoos

Message:

Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Aug 8, 2003 11:41am)

I figured this to be the best place to post this...

I have a tattoo on my inner forearm that I regret because of my magic. It is large and difficult to hide regardless of being on stage/close-up. Sleeves would seem to be the obvious answer but, being that my concentration is mainly manipulation, sleeves get in my way when performing!

I know this can be a bit tricky but are there any suggestions, views...?

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Posted by: paraguppie (Aug 8, 2003 1:04pm)

Why do you want to hide it so badly? I say let people see it. There was a time that tattoos were socially not very acceptable. I think that time is gone. I have one on my shoulder. It is not visible unless I am in a tanktop shirt, but if anyone sees it, I don't mind.

Is it destracting from your routine? Is it inappropriate (naked woman or something)? Why the need to hide it so badly?

Keith

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Aug 8, 2003 2:01pm)

Keith,

Thanks for the reply. It's not that I want to hide it so badly but I figure that people would look at it in a negative way, which would therefore affect the way they see my magic. Am I wrong?

Also, I think it could be distracting. Like I said, it's on my forearm. Imagine me doing card manipulations/close-up with it showing. What do you or anyone else think?

Oh, no, the tattoo is not inappropriate, it shows a name and a date.

Any other thoughts/suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

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Posted by: paraguppie (Aug 9, 2003 1:58pm)

I could be wrong, but I don't think it's a big deal. Then again, I work with 125 other firefighters and I would say a third have tattoos. It's very popular with firefighters here for some reason.

I guess some people might feel that it's a negative thing, but I think those people would be the minority now. Tattoos have become much more accepted in the last few years from what I have seen. Anyway, just my thoughts. Good luck with whatever you decide to do with it. :pepper:

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Posted by: marko (Aug 9, 2003 4:33pm)

I wouldn't worry about if it's just a tattoo of a name and date. I don't think anyone would care, I wouldn't. If it was a flaming skull with snakes coming out of its eyes, that might be different. That could be distracting. But this doesn't sound like a big deal.

Sidenote: Ricky Jay has a couple of tattoos on his arm. He doesn't seem to make any effort to hide them despite the fact that they are visible when he rolls up his sleeves and performs. No one seems to care.

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Posted by: zombieboy (Aug 9, 2003 6:43pm)

Have you seen Reed McClintock?

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Posted by: Nicholas J. Johnson (Aug 9, 2003 7:32pm)

Quote:

On 2003-08-09 13:58, paraguppie wrote:
I could be wrong, but I don't think it's a big deal. Then again, I work with 125 other firefighters and I would say a third have tattoos. It's very popular with firefighters here for some reason.

I guess some people might feel that it's a negative thing, but I think those people would be the minority now. Tattoos have become much more accepted in the last few years from what I have seen. Anyway, just my thoughts. Good luck with whatever you decide to do with it. :pepper:

I love the fact you are a firefighter and your hands are on fire!!! :rotf:

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Posted by: RandyStewart (Aug 10, 2003 1:18am)

I wear $3,000 worth of custom work on entire left side of chest and lower body. Yes I refer to tattoos. The inkwork began in Georgia and was added to in Korea and Louisiana.

My ink work is extremely important to me and can't imagine living without it. It's that important to me. You may consider having your piece removed if you are that self-conscious about it.

Despite the extensive work on my own body, I have an option to show it in public or not depending on type of shirt.

Trust me I've been to the same restaurant with a "wife beater" shirt exposing tats and asked to leave. On the other hand, showing up at same location in a shirt, tie, and jacket (as I do in most settings) gets me somewhat of a red carpet and table treatment away from the crowd just as I like it.

It's a good deal.

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Posted by: Diavo (Oct 4, 2003 2:24pm)

Depending on the size, you could either have a (large?) band-aid or one of those flesh colored wraps for when you sprain your ankle...

A girl I worked with once was a cashier with a large tat on her leg, which was unacceptable to the store. It was summer and hot, so she just used the wrap to cover it...

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Posted by: Ron Reid (Oct 4, 2003 7:10pm)

Hi Roy:

Yes, I think you're wise in covering it up. I don't know what type of clientèle you perform for, so it may be alright, but many people still react negatively to tattoos and the last thing you want to do is offend a paying client. Say, why take the chance on something like that? It doesn't sound like the tattoo has anything to do with your act, so I say cover it up. Just my humble opinion; others may disagree.

Ron

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Posted by: marctheamazing (Oct 7, 2003 11:39pm)

I also suggest covering it up. Obviously you're self-conscious about it, which does affect your confidence level and thus, the strength of your performance. If sleeves are not an option, visit your local costume shop. The odds are good that they have a good tattoo concealer makeup. The costume store where I live carries it all the time and sells a lot of it. Mehron is a company that makes a very good concealer. The pigment is very dense and it's available in a palette with different shades so you can mix to match your skin tone.

Additionally, the costume shop should also have a setting powder that will make the makeup resistant to sweat and water and not rub off on clothing. It'll come off with cold cream or makeup remover.

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Posted by: Chezaday (Oct 12, 2003 12:35am)

Here's another topic that hits home with me...Tattoos. It's all part of my look, rock and roll that is. I've got a lightning bolt on my right shoulder and it's easy enough to see, as I don't wear sleeves. Spandex and leather, that's my outfit.

Steve

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Oct 12, 2003 11:39am)

I just want to thank everyone for their replies. I guess it just depends on the audience; I recently performed for a group that would be considered the "elite" of our city and they had NO PROBLEM whatsoever about it. I was even performing close-up magic!!!

Anyhow, if anyone else has this same problem, I found a simple solution. I got the idea from the Shimada tapes, where he wears a sock on his forearm to help his dove toss. I've tried it and it works great, as I also use tails and perform the toss.

Thanks for sharing your methods to conceal tattoos as well as your thoughts.

Roy

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Posted by: magicsoup (Oct 13, 2003 1:20pm)

Did you know that in Canada you can not give blood for a full year after getting a tattoo? What if people getting tattoos decided to give blood instead?

Since you already have it I say show it! Distracting tattoos could be great misdirection. You could make jokes about it.

The first video demo I saw Reed M do I thought OMG look at all those tattoos! Now think about this. If someone like that could perform for someone like me and win them over how great would that be! It sounds like a fun challenge. It wouldn't surprise me if Reed actually has stories like this.

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Posted by: Nicholas J. Johnson (Oct 13, 2003 6:15pm)

Depending on what the tattoo is there for, you could even use it in an effect. Force the name and date and viola!

Of course, that may not be appropriate if the tattoo is a remembrance of some sort.

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Posted by: Scott Ocheltree (Oct 13, 2003 11:40pm)

Anybody here ever see Reed McClintock? Amazing full-arm tattoos, plus a full deck ribbon spread across his abdomen...

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Posted by: hackmonkey (Nov 2, 2003 4:29pm)

I have three tattoos myself, one being the word "magic" on my lower neck which can be seen if I wear a T-shirt or a vest. I have a large tribal tattoo on my left arm that can easily be seen if I wear a T-shirt or short sleeve shirt. Both these are easily covered by a normal long sleeve shirt, which is what I do sometimes, but I often wear a T-shirt or a tanktop when doing night club gigs or parties, depending on what sort of venue it is. But my tattoos are part of my image as a magician and I would show them off at every venue if that was appropriate.

I have done magic at some very "elite" clubs with very rich clientele, stars, business men and other club owners. I never had any problems, in fact it helps separate me from other "suit and tie" magicians. ("He didn't even have any sleeves!!" was often heard as I walked away.) I got many bookings on that fact.

I think as long as your clients know what to expect then no one should have any problems, and your tattoo sounds like nothing to worry about. I like the idea Nicholas mentioned, of using it in effect that could be your signature piece/gimmick. Luke Jermay has some thoughts on this.

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Posted by: mdspark (Nov 3, 2003 12:21am)

When I see large tatoos on obvious body parts...I always wonder where the person did their prison time....

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Posted by: kulhaq (Nov 6, 2003 2:29pm)

I respect and admire those who have tattoos, as long as they have a story behind them (perhaps with a trick, hint, hint!) ;)

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Posted by: Bob Sanders (Nov 8, 2003 11:02pm)

If the tattoo really needs to be gone, for about $100/square inch you can solve the problem. If it is there because you want it, then it is part of you. The real test is your audience and what it does or does not do to them. What I was told as a young sailor in the US Navy was that a tattoo is a permanent reminder of temporary insanity. But they are certainly popular now. My Phi Beta Kappa niece has several. I doubt it will make her less smart or me any less proud of her.

It is also a fact that people will love you for your faults and hate you for your virtues. Audiences can be very kind when we belong to them. My wife and partner was a ballerina and is still the epitome of grace and form. On the other hand, I enjoyed being a cowboy when I could. Consequently, sometimes I limp and sometimes I don't. So it can be a very blatant comparison on stage. In 42 two years I've never had an audience mention it to me.

If manipulation is really your act and you find someone fixed on your tattoo and you decide to believe worst, there is a line we have all used at some time, "And here's a little trick I learned in prison." That tends to cash the check for them. If they laugh, you're OK.

Don't sweat the small stuff! Entertain them.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

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Posted by: j.g.sager (Nov 11, 2003 12:21am)

I have two tattoos, one on my forearm and one on my wrist. I found out it doesn't matter if you have tattoos as long as it is not seen in the audience's "first impression".

What I do is start with a long sleeve shirt, give a good first impression and give them time to warm up to me. Then I roll up my sleeves so I can show them the real magic or "give 'em the good stuff" and if your first impressions are good enough and the magic is good, then I promise you they won't even care and half won't even notice you have a tattoo. I've had people I've done magic for several times who didn't notice I have a tattoo for over two weeks. :thumbsup:

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Posted by: BonzoTheClown (Dec 15, 2003 8:52am)

One night, a little worse for drink, while walking back from the bar I made a rash decision that would affect my life forever. I chanced upon a tattoo parlor. It turns out this place decided to stay open until 3 am just to catch the drunken crowd.

I told the burly, yet camp tattooist to tattoo my nose blue. When I woke up the next morning it was too late I was stuck with it. I had to give up my high flying career as a stock broker and I thought my life was ruined until one day, in a vision, a dream, Bonzo was born.

Ever since my life could not have been better. I incorporated the blue nose into my persona and have travelled all around the world and it has made me rich. I am forever identified through my blue nose rather than who I really am which is great, nobody likes the real me anyway.

There is a moral to this story: don't be afraid to tattoo your nose after a few pints of the good stuff. You won't regret it.

Please choose a different color.

Marc Climens

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Dec 15, 2003 9:37am)

Marc,

Is that a true story or are you just messin' around??? :hmm:

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Posted by: M_Fortune (Dec 15, 2003 10:55am)

Quote:

On 2003-12-15 08:52, BonzoTheClown wrote:
I incorporated the blue nose into my persona and have travelled all around the world and it has made me rich....
Marc Climens

Marc

You seem familiar...

Boasting a blue nose in certain parts of Glasgow may not be such a good idea. Unless you want a good kicking of course. :)

mal

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Posted by: BonzoTheClown (Dec 15, 2003 11:43am)

Mal. That reminds me of an old psychic joke:

How do you make a Ouija Board?
I'm sure you don't need the punch line

Lamentably the above story is true. Truth, my friends, is stranger than fiction.

Marc Climens

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Posted by: M_Fortune (Dec 15, 2003 1:48pm)

Lol, nice one.

There's also a joke waiting to be made about magicians and brown noses... :D

Mal

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Posted by: ninjaduffy (Dec 19, 2003 9:34pm)

That can not be true. Never. If it is true you must be from the UK.

Only we have the balls for that kind of...

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Posted by: Joshua Lozoff (Jan 13, 2004 7:19pm)

This is exactly what I was thinking. So often in magic we have to turn a negative into a positive. If you've got numbers and a date on your arm, USE IT!

Quote:

On 2003-10-13 18:15, Nicholas J. Johnson wrote:
Depending on what the tattoo is there for, you could even use it in an effect. Force the name and date and viola!

Of course, that may not be appropriate if the tattoo is a remembrance of some sort.

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Posted by: Karl Miller (Jan 23, 2004 11:28pm)

If people judge you by your tattoos, that is their problem, not yours. Reed McClintock has a lot of tattoos, and he is one of the nicest guys on the planet. Maybe you should ask him about his experiences?

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Posted by: Steve Pellegrino (Mar 6, 2004 11:17pm)

Quote:

On 2003-10-04 19:10, Ron Reid wrote:
Hi Roy:

Yes, I think you're wise in covering it up. I don't know what type of clientel you perform for, so it may be alright, but many people still react negatively to tattoos and the last thing you want to do is offend a paying client. Say, why take the chance on something like that? It doesn't sound like the tattoo has anything to do with your act, so I say cover it up. Just my humble opinion; others may disagree.

Ron

Man, I came in late to this thread! No, I don't have tattoos, but Reed McClintock is a good friend and just to reply to Ron's comments about covering tattoos - Reed doesn't cover his and has many corporate clients. I even incorporated a tattoo into Reed's web site when I was redeveloping it.

I think that tattoos where probably a negative thing years ago, but not anymore. If the whole procedure of tattoos didn't scare the heck out of me, I'd probably have a couple!

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Posted by: snedglow (Mar 7, 2004 4:33pm)

Those decisions we made when we were young sometimes come back to haunt us, don't they?

Nevertheless, I have three tattoos and I am not ashamed of any of them. Two are very small and on my shoulders. Both are covered just by wearing a tee-shirt. The third, a scorpion, is on my right forearm. Well, there's no covering that up is there?

I think for the most part no one will even think twice about it. The fellow above who mentioned he has them completely covering the left side of his chest, well, someone might think twice about that, but a small, discreet tattoo will not draw a lot of attention. Perhaps you can tell a story about it and work it into the show somehow.

Although I'd have to say if you're doing kid's magic, for example, you might want to think about covering a tattoo of, say, a naked gal. Just a thought.

-R

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Posted by: keven (Mar 15, 2004 12:20am)

Quote:

On 2003-11-03 00:21, mdspark wrote:
When I see large tatoos on obvious body parts...I always wonder where the person did their prison time....

come on now.
I have tattoos. I have a few that I don't what now. But I have to live with them and I never did any jail time.

I even Have a Tattoo for a magic trick I do.
Now if I ever do go to jail they might get me in the night, for being a dork with a MAGIC tattoo

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Posted by: rickmagic1 (Mar 19, 2004 5:52pm)

Quote:

Come on now.
I have tattoos. I have a few that I don't what now. But I have to live with them and I never did any jail time.

I even Have a Tattoo for a magic trick I do.
Now if I ever do go to jail they might get me in the night, for being a dork with a MAGIC tattoo

I got my first tattoo in Victorville! Glad to know I'm in good company.

Rick

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Posted by: mike paris (Mar 20, 2004 8:00am)

There is another alternative,and that is to have a tattoo done over the top of the old one,you are a magician then advertise it ,maybe have a tattoo of a partly fanned deck of cards,use it for misdirection,mike

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Posted by: enriqueenriquez (Mar 20, 2004 8:56am)

Don’t worry about your tatoo. The daughter of your client probably has a bigger one.

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Posted by: Samuel Catoe (Mar 24, 2004 3:34pm)

Quote:

On 2003-11-03 00:21, mdspark wrote:
When I see large tatoos on obvious body parts...I always wonder where the person did their prison time....

I have done mine in the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Nearly five years behind the walls and counting. BTW, that is where I work not where I live.

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Posted by: alex cahill (Mar 25, 2004 11:34am)

Pathetic. in my opinion tatooes look horrible and stupid people get them done. if you know that people are going to judge you for what your tatoo is of or wher it is. either don't get it done or just get on with it being a disadvantage. "your body should be kept as a temple" what sort of temple has graffitti all over it.

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Mar 25, 2004 5:07pm)

I am proud of my tattoo. I started this post a while back not because I'm afraid people will judge me for what my tattoo actually IS/says etc... I started the post because of stupid people, such as yourself Alex who do not have an open/educated mind. If you had any knowledge of anthropolgy, you'd realize that what you state is your point of view controlled by your culture. Tattoos have been around since the beginning of time. Some cultures have them, others don't and there are thousands of cultures around the world. Becuase of this you can realize that there is no right or wrong, simply how you were enculturated. Well, trying to explain this would be like writing out a doctoral thesis. Hopefully some of you get the point...As for you Mr. Cahill, I'm not sorry you feel that way...

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Posted by: alex cahill (Mar 26, 2004 5:11am)

Hey roy and all you tatoo lovers. in my opinion they look horrible and wellwhat sort of respect do you have for yourself if you mark your body. are you guys not happy with the way you look withough pictures and writing on it. isn't it funny how the most of the top magicians have no tatooes

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Mar 26, 2004 9:50am)

I could name several. WHere does your logic come from man?!!! So, you're saying I wont ever be a top magician because of my tattoos?
This is the last time I respond to such nonsense...

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Posted by: Donny Orbit (Mar 28, 2004 6:49am)

Alex Alex Alex. Judge not lest ye be judged yourself. I believe you have made quite the mistake with your comments above. Reed McClintock has more tattoos than anyone in magic as far as I know, and I very much consider him a top magician. My body is my temple, and its not graffiti on it, but artwork that makes it that much more beautiful.

Respectfully,

Xander

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Posted by: alex cahill (Mar 29, 2004 4:34am)

Firstly I said most of the top magicians do not have tatooes. most means not all. so you think tatooes make you look more beautiful? to who. to the public, or to yourself. most people do not like tatooes and will judge you. I know someone who had severe burns on themselves which disfigured there body and made them realise that the human body is just perfect the way it was attended. if you are not happy with the way you look. I feel you are sad. buy a hat with a feather on it.

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Posted by: PyroJeffNic (Mar 29, 2004 11:14pm)

Alex Alex Alex.

Open up your mind. Just because you don't believe in doing stuff like that doesn't mean your the Tsar and everyone has to believe what you believe. I think if someone decides to get a tatoo that its not that bad.

Seriously though alex. You are offending me, and I don't even have a tatoo!!!

(As I read farther, it makes me more discusted)

Magicians with tatoos do not have disadvantages. Reed Mckintox (spelling?), is one of the most amazing magicians I have had the operrtunity to meet.

Its someone elses body, let go.

FACT: Most people aren't like you and don't care what everyone thinks. Its not the looks, its the skill. No offence but look at Tommy Wonder. He looks really scary but yet he is amazing at what he does. It just adds character.

I would like you to walk up to someone with a tatoo and tell them what you said to us, and have fun running.

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Posted by: alex cahill (Mar 30, 2004 5:32am)

Have fun running from who? I am not scared of speaking my mind nor the consequences. I am not saying reed is not a great magician, I just personally think they look horrid and could only work as a disadvantage unless you a s a magician are being employed at a tattoo convention to perform. please when you tatooed fellows get old and look at your body you will not think you look cool.

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Posted by: PyroJeffNic (Mar 30, 2004 9:56pm)

Haha thanks buddy. not.

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Posted by: Daniel Faith (Mar 31, 2004 10:53pm)

I choose not to get a tatoo myself.
I just simply don't like them.
But if someone wants to wear one then so be it. It's their body and their life and their business!
If it does make you self conscious though, cover it up.

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Posted by: PyroJeffNic (Apr 1, 2004 9:51pm)

That's the way!!!

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Posted by: Jamie D. Grant (Apr 3, 2004 12:41pm)

Wow!

I must truly thank Mr.Cahill. Alex, Thank You. It's because of people like yourself that I am so successful. I mean it. Your ignorance is so forthwith that the rest of us will have no problem surpassing you in life.

David Blaine- Tattooed, Millionaire, Magician of the Year (MAGIC)
Mr.Cahill- well, to be honest I've never heard of you...

My God Man, you can't even spell tattoo!

Alex, I truly hope you are very young. It gives me hope that you will one day grow up and realize that anyone can be successful no matter how they look. The color of your skin is not always the color you are born with. And with a reputation as being Prejudice I doubt you will find work at any convention. Think about it.

django

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Posted by: PyroJeffNic (Apr 3, 2004 11:18pm)

Lol loved the message django!
thanks for your post!

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Posted by: Angela (Jul 2, 2004 7:55pm)

Dermablend is by far the best way to conceal any tattoo, scar, freckles, etc. This can be a huge issue with pageant girls, too-- I've seen some great results.

Taken from website, www.dermablend.com:

Problem: Cellulite, Varicose Veins, Stretchmarks, Bruises or Tattoos

Solution: Cover imperfections from the neck down with Dermablend Leg & Body Cover. It goes on easily and won’t smear or rub off. Remember to allow several minutes to dry completely before getting dressed.

Jose’s Tip: Always start with a light, all-over body moisturizer. Then apply Dermablend Leg & Body Cover with fingertips in a sweeping, up and down motion. Remember to blend well. For a silky, longer-lasting finish, use Dermablend’s Setting Powder after it has dried.

-Angela

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Posted by: abc (Jul 4, 2004 6:20am)

Quote:

On 2004-03-25 11:34, alex cahill wrote:
Pathetic. in my opinion tattooes look horrible and stupid people get them done. if you know that people are going to judge you for what your tattoo is of or where it is. either don't get it done or just get on with it being a disadvantage. "your body should be kept as a temple" what sort of temple has graffitti all over it.

I am sold.
I am getting the Chinese for Black Magic done on my arm tonight. Hei muo shu.
Then I'll post here tomorrow. I've been thinking of a way to get my act more bizarre and this is the way to go.
Thanks to all
To answer the initial question.
DO NOT COVER IT UP.
Use it to add to your character. ie this is the name of the person that taught me magic and the date I started learning. Let's see if he was any good cause I am fantastic LOL

Posted: Jul 6, 2004 12:14pm
Best choice of my life.
Thanks guys

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Posted by: xxxRoyxxx (Jul 6, 2004 1:10pm)

Congrats abc, thank you all for the feedback!!!!!!!

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Posted by: brokenfinger (Jul 12, 2004 10:30am)

Actually a few more years until I'm able to get a tatto and I want a few done badly
I want one on my back with a huge iron cross in flames and a skull in the middle of that and a few skulls done on my arms ill probably get one when I'm about 16

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Posted by: jdknight (Jul 16, 2004 4:19pm)

You know, Tattoos look great on some people and not so great on others. No matter your opinion, there will always be people that are offended by tattoos. These same people may be offended by those with long hair or beards etc... such as Dean Dill (who is a really nice person) or jeff McBride (Also very nice)or people with beer bellies (Myself), etc... You can't please everyone. But, by this same token, this alex fellow is simply stating his opinion and whether anyone agrees with it or not, doesn't really matter. Just like someone getting a tattoo, he has to live by his statements...and the possible consequences.

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Posted by: Stevethomas (Jul 25, 2004 5:09pm)

Who is this Alex guy (?) and where does his information come from? He has no idea who is tattooed and who's not. Not everybody shows, ya know. Judging by his use (or NON use) of punctuation and capitalization of words, he's probably pretty young.

Steve Thomas

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Posted by: Laughing Otter (Sep 4, 2004 5:28pm)

Quote:

On 2004-03-29 04:34, alex cahill wrote:
..the human body is just perfect the way it was attended. if you are not happy with the way you look. I feel you are sad. buy a hat with a feather on it.

Alex, your statement tells me that you have never had a haircut, will never shave, and that you go skyclad at all times.
Please think carefully before making extreme statements like the ones you've posted here. It is possible to firmly state a strong opinion without insulting those who hold a different viewpoint.
Most get better at it with practice.

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Posted by: randomdan (Sep 4, 2004 6:37pm)

Quote:

in my opinion tatooes look horrible and stupid people get them done

It's my opinion that you're narrowminded. Just because YOU don't like something, does that make those who endulge in it stupid?

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Posted by: ToPher (Sep 10, 2004 3:42pm)

My whole right arm is in the work as of right now along with 90% of my back..The only thing that had gone threw my mind was not what people were going to think but what other magicians would think.I was affraid I wasnt going to be "accepted". Needless to say Im very lucky to be hanging out with some great people now an my ink isn't a problem.Im also glad to here there are many more magicians out there with ink. Its narrow minded people like alex that keep this world from progressing. So just keep doing what your doing..

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Posted by: Mike Wild (Sep 11, 2004 6:56am)

RE: "Reed McClintock has more tattoos than anyone in magic as far as I know,"

I wouldn't go that far... :)

I'm pretty much running out of real estate on my upper body. I'm inked pretty thoroughly. Most people, even conservatives look at my tattoos and compliment me on their detail and artistic appeal. Some people look with shock and horror, but not many.

As for how this impacts my magic.... the tats definitely make me a better and more talented magician :huh: :hysteric:

Seriously... this is the year 2004 right? We have moved forward from the witch hunts and the world is round.. right? Because after reading a few posts in this thread I wasn't sure there for a second :)

Mike

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Posted by: Review King (Sep 13, 2004 6:54am)

Quote:

On 2003-08-08 11:41, Roy wrote:
I figured this to be the best place to post this...

I have a tattoo on my inner forearm that I regret because of my magic. It is large and difficult to hide regardless of being on stage/close-up. Sleeves would seem to be the obvious answer but, being that my concentration is mainly manipulation, sleeves get in my way when performing!

I know this can be a bit tricky but are there any suggestions, views...?

Cut the arm off. Rene Lavand will retire one day and you can take his place!
:rotf:

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Posted by: JoeJoe (Sep 21, 2004 3:15am)

Quote:

On 2004-03-25 11:34, alex cahill wrote:
"your body should be kept as a temple" what sort of temple has graffitti all over it.

Alex, please take the beam out of your own eye before you tell your brother about the speck in his eye. Life is not a beauty contest, and neither is magic. that's a very narrow minded opinion you have, and flat outright wrong.

To the orginal poster, don't worry about it. Tattoo's are very much socially acceptable these days, with people's grandmothers even sporting them.

You are never ever going to get "everyone" to like you - chances are, if someone says they don't like your tattoo, it's just a cop-out because they don't have the guts to tell you what it is they really don't like about you. They arn't worth wasting your time on, move on to bigger and better things.

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Posted by: Mauricio Jaramillo (Sep 21, 2004 11:03am)

Man, this Alex character is hilarious. The sad thing is, there's millions of others like him running around sharing their ignorant opinion.

Anyhow, does anyone suggest any good Tattoo effects that can be done with a temporary tattoo?

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Posted by: King Of Pop (Oct 26, 2004 7:11pm)

That's way I don't like tattoos, cause you cant change those, like you change your clothes, hair style etc.

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Posted by: MaGiShN46 (Oct 29, 2004 2:35pm)

I got one of a card(jack of spades cause its the best card in the universe) and I do a little trick with it for laughs and giggles I for** a card then rub it on my shirt then lift up ooooo its on my skin

and no I don't think their bad
and no I don't think it doesn't make you look any less professional look at some of the best magicians got them

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Posted by: BananaTop (Oct 30, 2004 12:57pm)

I saw a guy preforming at the South Sea Port I NYC and he had a ton of tats 3 I think. An arm band of cards (All Aces) A Rabbit Coming Out Of A Hat And THe Ace OF Spades on his back! It looked cool and fit the act. So I guess tats work either way!!

BT

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Posted by: ageddes (Nov 8, 2004 6:34pm)

I'm quite proud of my tat on my right upper arm. It is of a funky queen of hearts and I have sometimes done the obvious thing and forced the QH etc... It is so far up my arm even when I wear a short sleeved shirt it still remains covered, quite handy as I'm a dental surgeon.

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Posted by: Black Knight (Nov 8, 2004 7:56pm)

I have a nice Ace of Spades on the back of the neck. Its a nice place where the ladies wouldn't expect it ;)

The Black Knight

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Posted by: Marco S. (Nov 12, 2004 10:24am)

Roy`s initial question is legitimate, though.
A tattoo on your arm always has a bad touch to a lot of people. Some might think you learned your sleights in jail.

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Posted by: jonnycardel (Nov 12, 2004 1:09pm)

If I cover mine up (on left wrist)with a flesh covered band-aid people think I've hidden any thing i,ve vanished there. :stuckinbag:

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Posted by: magicgeorge (Nov 25, 2004 3:35pm)

There's a guy in my local who has an Ace of spades tattooed up his sleeve. I sometimes force the card on someone then point to my friend and say it went up his sleeve.

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Posted by: Mike Wild (Nov 29, 2004 5:40pm)

Good one :)

I have a jungle / waterfall / panther thing that covers my right arm. I sometimes draw a card into the tattoo and do a lost and found type routine... the card is gone from the deck, then it's in my wallet, vanishes from there and reappears in the deck, vanishes again... not in my wallet... not in the deck, but here it is, in the jungle. Usually does well for me.

Mike

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Posted by: Mysterion The Mind reader (Dec 2, 2004 4:37am)

I am covered in Tattoos. And sometimes during my mentalism show, my shirt comes off to perform a bed of nails / revelation routine.

I've worked hundreds of shows for repeat Corporate clients such as Bell Canada, BMO Banks, TD Canada trust, and at fiercely high end establishments for law firms etc... The truth is, the clients LOVE the tattoos, it's part of the entertainment. I even show them off at childrens Parties, and have more repeat bookings and references then I ever expected.

Perception of something like a tat is a quickly fading thing of the past.

I also have a huge scar on my abdomen that I attribute to a seperated siamese brother, much to the delight of the audience!!!!!

Off topic. I was one of the top ranking student chefs in culinary school years ago- Funny, going in, other students bet I'd be one of the first to drop out because I had a two foot mowawk hairstyle and wore bondage trousers on class days. However I was the one usually assisting other students during difficult labs and scored top marks in college maths and science. We as magicians all know, looks can be deceiving!!!!

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Posted by: Lee Darrow (Dec 2, 2004 6:24pm)

These days tattoos are more the norm than the exception.

Be a radical non-conformist - don't get a tattoo! It's getting so the cops ask "any identifying marks?" and the reply is becoming, "yes, no tattoos" and they look at you like you are something from another planet.

That's according to my younger brother who has friends in low places..... ;)

Lee Darrow, C.H.

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Posted by: Bob Sanders (Dec 28, 2004 11:51pm)

Lee,

I agree with you! And I was in the US Navy! It's a lot easier to live without tattoos than with them.

It time warps people into a period of history that is difficult to escape. People grow and change. How would you like to be seen with PacMan tats today? It would make you very 90s. Elvis tats would make you very 50s and 60s. At what stage do you want people to see that your development stopped?

We don't even tattoo our registered horses anymore. (We mark them with electronic chips implanted out of sight. We did one today!) Frankly, the horses are too valuable to us to risk the hazards of a tattoo. What are you worth?

My wife is a physician. She would give you other reasons to look for another way to do your thing. Changing your mind doesn't provide the technology to make you "good as new". There will be a scar when a tattoo is removed. But there is nothing healthy about the whole process anyway.

What about art? I didn't mention that she is also an artist, model, and ballet dancer. She has no tattoos. She does have scars from rehearsing, practicing, and performing. But those are earned and not decorations. They are her labels, not someone elses.

In 1964 (during the Worlds Fair) I was a young professional musician working in New City when I saw my first tattoo on a woman. She was a pretty young lady of about twenty-one or two and came into the club alone. She had a thunderbird tattooed on her face. Now she would be about sixty-two. What would your opinion be if you saw her now? Personnally, I doubt that she ever left the village alive or made it throught the 60s. By the end of that summer, she looked like she was starving. However, I have often wondered about her. Without the tattoo she could have been anything. I think she was a college student at Columbia.

I've seen lots of tats since. But I've never seen one improve someone. Some are actually a pretty work of art on a decaying medium. That doesn't say much for the artists. Mostly, I've seen them used as Lee said. They helped identify a body under bad circumstances. I do know that ad agencies frequently reject talent applications on the basis of body markings. Ad agencies hope to produce timeless images. Tattoos stop the clock. It's about money. If you are a professional entertainer, you represent a sponsor somewhere. How long will you be of any value to them with time identifying marks? How long will they pay for the identification? Do you think that the tattoos on the Marlboro Man were real?

I know times change. Markings do too. Use your head. Opportunities are about options not limitations. Why permanently limit your options? The people who hire you are not required to see things your way. They keep their options open. They plan to succeed for a long time. They don't build unnecessary barriers.

Bob
Magic By Sander

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Posted by: oagwood (Dec 29, 2004 1:33am)

Great posts,
I like tattoos, and have quite a few, but I sympathize with the problem posted in the original post because it is a touchy area regardless of the year. Having a tattoo on the forearm detracts when you are wearing a tux and roll up your sleeves.

Me personally I have a skull with cross rifles and usmc emblazoned below it. Would I get rid of it? Never, those who have served probably understand a little better than others, not to say that those who haven't won't but there is a different mindset. Will somebody be able to identify me in an accident? most likely (i have my dog tags tatooed on my ribs).

one of the cool things about being a guy with a lot of tattoos is that I don't act like a guy with a lot of tattoos, I display them when I want to. And when the one on my forearm flashes as it usually does before the day is done, I explain what it is, and describe how I was once a machinegunner. this in itself leads to other conversations of course and people seem to dig it.

the moral of my story: like them if you want, hate them if you want, I don't care and most people don't either - I believe it was Bob's first post that conveyed this idea very elegantly (the second.. eh, all good though).

oliver

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Posted by: London (Jan 25, 2005 1:40pm)

You can never have too many tattoo's

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Posted by: Magyckmyke (Feb 2, 2005 5:14pm)

Opinions are plentiful about tattooed people and the risk of failure by being tattooed. As we have witnessed some peoples opinions are laughable some are quite convinced their opinion is the final word.
Risk are minimal in these times if you choose to get a tattoo by a professional, I'd even go so far as to say you have a better chance of coming out of a hospital or doctors office with an infection than you do coming out of a tattoo artist studio with an infection.
People have always got tattoos for whatever reasons they choose and some people are very private about their tattoos. On the other hand there are those that flaunt the tattoos they have because they want you to see them and really don't care what you might think.
Tattoos are earned and they are not for everybody, nobody can get a tattoo without a certain amount of commitment to the art. Whether you wear them as badges of honor or just fond memories that you wish to share, they are art.
I am a tattoo artist and have been one for over 25 years, I have tattooed many people that you would never guess had a tattoo including District Attorneys, Judges, Lawyers, Presidents of Banks, University Deans, and people from just about every walk of life imaginable.
The last celebrity I tattooed came in for his 65th birthday to get a tattoo he had wanted since he was 16. He has performed at four U.S. State Dinners by command performance for four Presidents of the United States. He has also performed for Pope John Paul II at the New Orleans Papal Mass and 59 times on Johnny Carson's "The Tonight Show."
His name is Pete Fountain a wonderful man, brilliant musician and a tattooed guy.
As recommended before Dermablend is about the easiest temporary solution for covering tattoos if you don't want certain people to see them.
Laser is probably the best way to get rid of an unwanted tattoo.
Covering up tattoos with other tattoos is a viable option for tattoos that you might think are offensive and probably the cheapest permanent solution.
I am not too sure what kind of elite corporate professionals you might be performing for but I could hardly believe any of them are more elite than the following list of people who have tattoos. As you can see by the list of names its not just a new fad, it's been going on for centuries.

CHURCHILL, Winston Anchor on arm
CONNERY, SIR Sean "Scotland Forever" and "Mum & Dad" on forearm
EDISON, Thomas Alva Five dots on left forearm in dice like design
FDR Former US President had a family crest in unknown location
GOLDWATER, Barry Crescent with four dots in shape of a snake bite
JFK, Jr. Shamrock on left foot, dagger on right arm
PRINCESS STEPHANIE Many tattoos, flowers, dolphins, chain, A DANIEL POUR LA VIE...
PRINCE of WALES Jerusalem Cross
QUEEN OLGA (Greece) Tattooed in unknown location
QUEEN VICTORIA Tattooed in unknown location
RICHARD THE LION HEARTED King of England (1189-99 AD) had Jerusalem Cross tattoo to signify his participation in the Crusades

http://www.vanishingtattoo.com/celebrity_tattoos.htm

Your body is a temple and I am here to paint your walls....

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Posted by: dreid007 (Feb 3, 2005 10:22pm)

Ron you got those tats for a reason you do magic for a reason be proud of your reasons and don't be afraid to sport them.

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Posted by: kaytracy (Mar 8, 2005 5:57pm)

While Tattoos are not my cup of tea, I say if you are self concious of it, then you can look into makeup as a temporary cover up, use good theatre stuff thst will set up and not smear.
On the other hand, one must learn to make the lemonade so I suggest, since you say it has a name and date on it, why not incorporate it into your act in some way, what if the name or date, or both changed, either to a different name, or some such. There are several ways to accomplich this I would think, considering my prior line, and others I can think of as well. Depending ont he design the name and date is in, one could come up with a tale (granted I think of the bizarre ones) regarding ancient curses, or blessings, and strange happenings, as the arm is covered with some object, or unusual fabric, to be removed and reveal the tat.
Work with it!

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Posted by: Lee Darrow (Mar 9, 2005 2:22am)

Well, my Dad did not have a tattoo, and he was rather proud as well as a little embarrassed by his scar from being "blood pinned" as a paratrooper back in WWII. That's where they pinned your jump wings onto your chest without the benefit of a uniform blouse. That practice has since been outlawed.

I have my five jumps in (civilian, I admit, but I got my 5 done, including one chute failure and one messed up drop that crashed me into a small building in a field), but if anyone ever had tried to blood pin me, they would have had a serious fight on their hands.

As Mad Magazine's classic charity parody on National Charleyhorse Day stated, "Pain hurts!"

Not for me, but others make their own way and the decision is theirs.

Lee Darrow, C.H.

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Posted by: Steve Dela (Mar 14, 2005 4:42pm)

I love tattoos on people,
I don't have any yet but here are my tattoo plans...

first thing is all my tattoos must be able to be covered when wearing a t-shirt... not because I don't want people to see them but becuase my parents will kill me.

I want Magic written on my stomach
right shoulder...a cartoon of a queen on hearts, red head in bakini (I think ya get the idea) and she is in 3D comming out of the card doing a card spring.

left shoulder:... Ace of spades with Dela written above the ace.

Entire back covered with my favourite card the jack of spades.

I know this is all very extreem, but I am an artist and a magician and therefore would love the above!

I don't care what other people will think and they wouldnt have to see them anyway.

In Magic
Steve Dela

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Posted by: james_magic (Jun 6, 2005 8:09pm)

I've got the four of spades (exactly half the size of a regular playing card) on my right leg (inner calf). I got it their because it can't be seen if I'm wearing pants. I still haven't told any magicians that I know because I'm worried what they will think. I don't care what anyone else thinks though.

P.S. I also force the card sometimes.

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Posted by: Euangelion (Jun 23, 2005 10:48am)

Ron, I think your question is an honest one and as the thread indicates there are many answers. I myself have seen technically exquisite body art that I would never want displayed in performance, DEPENDING on the audience and venue in which I was performing. And, also, how I understood my personna in performance.

In other words, I think the choice you make is an intersection of the client who has hired you, the venue where you are performing, and the character through which you perform.

At 80% of church functions a heavily tattooed performer is going to go over well, if you are going to perform in that venue your choices are to either hide the art or suggest another performer whom you know will better fit the venue, biker bar, well, the body art may not get noticed except for some questions if it is really good about who did and where?

The decision is in your hands but those choices do affect others. I'm a pastor and probably won't get any body art at this point in my life, although I tease the youth about an earring or a nose stud, but I have younger pastor friends some whom I mentor who have some body art It doesn't bother me although it can be hard on the members.

Choices have consequences, recognizing that is the first step to controling the choices after that it is a matter of weighing the direction and purpose you hope the decisions will serve.

Personally, I find body art a huge distraction because I am curious about it and not because I judge it and I am truly appreciative of any highly refined technical skill.

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Posted by: Moderncelt (Jun 28, 2005 5:27pm)

Ok being inked myself, I'm pro tattoo. However, myself and some of my inked friends work in fairly conservative environments. I have a friend who works in a banks and has some ink on her arm (actually a very beautiful piece and you may want to use her idea. Having been in theater, she uses a flesh toned cream to cover the piece, powders and it covers remarkably well. You might want to experiment with brands a bit if you are wearing a long sleeve shirt and rolling them up.

my .02

Sean

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Posted by: Tigerrune (Jul 26, 2005 8:23pm)

I was recently thinking of a tattoo that has a card in the design somewhere to use as part of the act. I don't have any tats yet but I've thought about it for a few years. I'd even make sure it was still stylish, interesting and fit my personality even if I didn't stay with magic. I'm 30 so I don't make my decisions lightly.

PS: If you're now 16 and still thinking about getting crosses and flaming skulls tattooed on your back... wait a few more years ;)

I did like the idea of "Black Magic" in Chinese. Some Chinese characters might fit my act as well.

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Posted by: Lord of Illusion (Aug 30, 2005 11:38pm)

Quote:

On 2004-03-25 11:34, alex cahill wrote:
Pathetic. in my opinion tatooes look horrible and stupid people get them done.
<SNIP>

Oh really? Johnny Depp, Clint Eastwood, Cher, David Blaine, etc, etc, etc are all stupid....

Uh huh....

Yeah...sure....

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Posted by: Caveat Lector (Aug 31, 2005 1:18am)

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On 2004-03-25 11:34, alex cahill wrote:
Pathetic. in my opinion tatooes look horrible and stupid people get them done. if you know that people are going to judge you for what your tatoo is of or wher it is. either don't get it done or just get on with it being a disadvantage. "your body should be kept as a temple" what sort of temple has graffitti all over it.

You my little friend are nothing but a pathetic a-hole. First of all you should take some time and consult a dictionary before you type your ignorence. If you don't like tattoos then don't get any, but to spew garbage that people with tattoos are stupid is just plain idiotic. I happen to have an IQ of 163 and make my full time living as an entertainer and I have full sleeves and most of my legs done. You can visit my web site and see that I have no problem getting work with tattoos. You are correct that some people will judge you for having them, but those people live a very sad life. If you are concerned about that then you should never get a tattoo. If you already have one, they have a make-up that covers tattoos or you can always get them lasered off. As far as your temple quote, I have been in many temples all over the world and they all have art on their walls. I live in this "temple" as you put it, and I don't like bare walls, it looks too much like an institution. I myself have decorated it with art that I love. Tattoos have a rich history and maybe you should turn on the history channel or read a book instead of doing another double lift. Judging from how you write and how you think I can't even begin to imagine what a poor performer you must be.

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Posted by: Bob Sanders (Nov 22, 2008 5:11pm)

This thread was started five years ago.

Have things changed?

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

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Posted by: RJE (Nov 28, 2008 12:52pm)

Hey Bob,

I have a number of tattoos and have never had a problem with them when it comes to any aspect of my life. (OK, my mom has a rather conservative point of view on the subject and thinks they make someone look 'dirty' ;) )

For me it is a non-issue. Perhaps there may be offensive content in some tattoos, but I personally do not find tattoos as an object on their own as being offensive.

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Posted by: Alan Munro (Dec 9, 2008 8:37pm)

I'll never get a tattoo - doesn't fit the markets that I work and would cost me business. My wealthiest clients are especially sensitive to tattoos. They use their money to distance themselves from the masses, as much as possible. It's as if failure is a communicable disease and they're afraid to catch it. They seem to equate tattoos with failure.

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Posted by: RJE (Dec 10, 2008 12:33pm)

Hehehe Alan, what kind of snobs are you working for? ;)

I can certainly understand individuals who do and individuals who do not like or accept tattoos, but an entire market? I don't think these are the type of people I would even want to work for. But, to each their own and best of luck to you!

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Posted by: Alan Munro (Dec 10, 2008 7:43pm)

Quote:

On 2008-12-10 12:33, RJE wrote:
Hehehe Alan, what kind of snobs are you working for? ;)

I can certainly understand individuals who do and individuals who do not like or accept tattoos, but an entire market? I don't think these are the type of people I would even want to work for. But, to each their own and best of luck to you!

It's not the entire market, but a sizable portion of it that view those with tattoos as undesirables. I go with the markets that have cash, rather than trying to get blood out of a turnip. I'd rather do shows that pay more.

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Posted by: RJE (Dec 12, 2008 6:35am)

I didn't think the amount someone got paid had anything to do with tattoos. Anyway, all the best.

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Posted by: Alan Munro (Dec 13, 2008 8:10am)

It doesn't affect what I get paid, just the number of gigs. I want my marketing activities to be as easy as possible.

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Posted by: Caveat Lector (Dec 29, 2008 12:41pm)

Quote:

On 2008-12-09 20:37, Alan Munro wrote:
I'll never get a tattoo - doesn't fit the markets that I work and would cost me business. My wealthiest clients are especially sensitive to tattoos. They use their money to distance themselves from the masses, as much as possible. It's as if failure is a communicable disease and they're afraid to catch it. They seem to equate tattoos with failure.

You are quite right, there are many people who believe that. When I perform you would never know that I have any tattoos. But, I have many corporate clients who hire me because of them and some of which I never let see them. Unfortunately many do think you are a failure if you have them. But, then I go back to my home and look at my new truck, Harley, RV, boat, 20 foot trailer filled with illusions, and 2 workshops and think to myself, man if this is failure I'll keep it. Now, I don't say this to sound big headed but I try to teach people that you can't judge a book by its cover. And if I need to be the poster child for this, then I will do my best to help to re-educate people as I travel around the world. And if some still choose to think that way then so be it. That just makes me feel sorry for those people who are so close minded. I find it funny that only people without tattoos care if you have one or not, while people with tattoos don't care either way. I was once told that variety is the spice of life and I love all kinds of people no matter what they look like.

Thanks, John

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Posted by: ferrissteve (Jan 21, 2009 2:19pm)

I am heavily covered with tattoos and it has not cost me any business. The real secret (in my opinion) is quite simply knowing when and to whom to flash your artwork too. Currently I perform almost exclusively in a suit and or business casual attire. Since both entail long sleeves, its never been a problem. Even for my kid shows my "character" lends itself to having longer sleeves, so its never been a huge issue.
Basically there will always be people who look down upon tattoos for whatever reason. Even if their reason may be completely off based I take it for what its worth and move on. Of course being as heavily covered as I am I often take to wearing long sleeves when traveling as it seems many people mistake me for a tattoo artist and are determined to explain in excruciating (spelling??) detail their long term tattoo plans. Anyone with signficant coverage will know what I'm talking about. Guess it comes with the territory??

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Posted by: meitzmagic (Jan 27, 2009 4:34pm)

Here is my new ink, hope you enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2012081&l=061ed&id=1454645089

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Posted by: Lawrence O (Jan 29, 2009 6:55am)

I personally don't like tattos but I hate prejudice much more. Anybody who has a little knowledge about magic knows that tattoos are decorrelated from talent: Reed McLintock is a living proof of that: you can have as much talent as tattos and he has a lot.
Admittedly, having tattos is not a proof that we would be better magicians... or is it? Both topics require thinking out of the box somehow (at least in Europe). Not worth running statistics but the results would probably be positively surprising.

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Posted by: gsidhe (Feb 5, 2009 12:55pm)

Quote:

On 2008-12-10 19:43, Alan Munro wrote:
Quote:

On 2008-12-10 12:33, RJE wrote:
Hehehe Alan, what kind of snobs are you working for? ;)

I can certainly understand individuals who do and individuals who do not like or accept tattoos, but an entire market? I don't think these are the type of people I would even want to work for. But, to each their own and best of luck to you!

It's not the entire market, but a sizable portion of it that view those with tattoos as undesirables. I go with the markets that have cash, rather than trying to get blood out of a turnip. I'd rather do shows that pay more.

Alan and I live in the same town, and I am sure that he gets more local gigs than I do. He's right about the upper class demographic in this area...They are not fond of "alternative" displays of any type. I still pick up a few gigs in town, but because of my apearance and type of show (Sideshow) they are few and far between. I do a lot of travel to find my audience.
But that is my choice. I do not cover my tats, don't wear suits, don't cut my hair nice and short. So most of my gigs are a minimum of 45 minutes away, most over 2 hours. I like that. Travel is what I like to do.
The show is pretty easy to undercut in price (We aren't cheap) but we are always booked. I had one weekend free since April of 2008 and already have confirmed bookings out through the end of June.
I don't think the tats have any negative effect, it's all part of my character.
Either that or I am really really lucky.
Look at the market you are catering too...Can they accept tats? If not, then you better figure out a workaround or change markets.
Gwyd

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Posted by: Destiny (Feb 5, 2009 1:02pm)

But then Gwyd, I know of someone in your State as clean cut as they come, who rarely gets a gig.

I'm pretty sure the person has no tattoos but then again I've never asked - maybe I should - perhaps there's a whole secret history I could be privy to!

Destiny

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Posted by: thegreatnippulini (Feb 6, 2009 9:50am)

I think what we have all missed out on here is the "family safe" factor. The illusionist community is quite different from the sideshow community. Come to think of it, I only know a few people in the sideshow family that DOESN'T have a tattoo. I designed my ink specifically to enhance the effect of my act. "Magicians" (illusionists) have more opportunity to get gigs at schools, church functions, birthday parties and other kid friendly uptight venues. Kids are impressionable and if they want to do what the magic guy is doing, well playing with cards is a pretty safe bet. But when a pierced up tattooed guy comes out, eats a lightbulb, sleeps on a bed of nails and lifts an anvil with thier nipples.... well you get the idea.

I won't say that being a non-showing-tattooed illusionist gets you better gigs, just more of them. Being true to yourself and having not one ounce of regret about your body is something you cannot put a price tag on.

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Posted by: RJE (Feb 6, 2009 12:11pm)

We regularly work in venues that have consistently received some of the highest ratings from family magazines (ie. City Parent Magazine)and other organizations (ie. Hotel Fun 4 Kids and Very Important Kids Club) in the country.

Our 90 minute family show at these venues is extremely popular and we continue to work these venues year after year on 10 week contracts.

We also are booked to perform year after year at fairs, festivals and events that are family or children oriented and affiliated with communities, churches, schools and even Disney.

My tattoos are quite visible on my arms and have never proven a detriment.

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Posted by: Destiny (Feb 6, 2009 1:10pm)

I see kids everywhere with fake tattoos - especially at fetes and festivals.

No biggie anymore.

Destiny

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Posted by: Magicman0323 (Mar 29, 2009 11:54pm)

Roy, I wish I would have found this topic awhile ago....Here is the link for tattoo cover-up sleeves.

http://www.thefirestore.com/store/product.cfm?pID=6337

I have ALOT of tattoos, but all are invisible unless I want them to be seen. With one of these sleeves, yours will be too.

ENJOY !

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Posted by: Magicman0323 (Mar 29, 2009 11:55pm)

Oh da*m, I just saw the original post is from 2003....well enjoy the link fellow tattoo'd people anyway!

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Posted by: Natanel (Mar 30, 2009 5:39pm)

Quote:

On 2009-02-06 09:50, thegreatnippulini wrote:
"Magicians" (illusionists) have more opportunity to get gigs at schools, church functions, birthday parties and other kid friendly uptight venues.

I think I want to get a tattoo so I CAN avoid these venues.

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Posted by: here2009 (Mar 31, 2009 2:32pm)

Tatoos aren't as bad as some think. Obviously you would want to avoid children, etc. but for the most part, they are better than most people think.

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Posted by: thegreatnippulini (Mar 31, 2009 5:41pm)

The REAL reason folks don't want you sporting your ink in front of the kiddies: children are SO impressionable that parents are REALLY afraid their kids will get tattooed because of it. Funny thing... it's pretty much true. Is it a bad thing? That's a whole 'nuther story.

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Posted by: lewisswiresmagic (Apr 3, 2009 9:05am)

I have got a load of tattoo's and I'm proud of all of them, I do magic for kids almost as much as Adults and I have never heard any complaints about my tattoo's, sometimes my sense of humour is a bit questinable but never my tattoo's, and a lot are on show...
I have had repeat bookings for a famly after doing a show for their daughters 12th birthday in a tshirt.

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Posted by: modfrog (Apr 24, 2009 10:09pm)

I have a but load of tattoos down both arms and on both hands never has it stoped me from doing anything that I want to do.

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Posted by: SolitarySoul (May 5, 2009 3:30pm)

I don't have, nor do I mind, tattoos. In fact, on the right girl in the right place I LOVE 'em!! (lol)

Having said that, I recommend keeping them invisible unless working somewhere I knew they were readily accepted. It's kinda like wearing a button expressing a political view - it shouldn't necessarily matter, but inevitably it will, somewhere, sometime.

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Posted by: ohiomagic (Nov 18, 2009 6:17pm)

I think they are a lot more socially acceptable today than they used to be. One of my favorite performers is Luke Jermay and he has one or two tatoos and they never seem to make a difference in his performance. I think it is not so much the tatoos as it is how you carry yourself as a person with them. If you come across as an smart person it probably doesn't matter what is inked on you (as long as it is not racist or something)but if you act like you belong on Jerry Springer that is how you will be treated.

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Posted by: The Great Smartini (Dec 6, 2009 2:55am)

I really find it fascinating what some folks will post. Tattoos have been around since time immemorial and each piece contains it's own narrative or at least one would hope given the end result. Mine came as a result of the tragic death of my 6 year old son Jonah. Much of the magic was taken from my family and the tattoo connects my life beliefs as well as my connection with magic.

I teach and perform at schools as well as do a small but increasing amount of corporate work. When I teach my students can see a portion of it as it comes down to the bottom of my bicep. Conversely, when I perfom magic my costume does cover my tattoo. I wouldn't have any concern showing it but since it's covered there isn't any issue. Still, if someone didn't want to hire me because I have a tattoo I wouldn't want to work for them. That's one of the benefits of being a self employed artist...I don't have to kowtow to narrow minded people who judge others based upon some assinine standard.

Jeff

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Posted by: The Great Smartini (Dec 6, 2009 2:58am)

I really find it fascinating what some folks will post. Tattoos have been around since time immemorial and each piece contains it's own narrative or at least one would hope given the end result. Mine came as a result of the tragic death of my 6 year old son Jonah. Much of the magic was taken from my family and the tattoo connects my life beliefs as well as my connection with magic.

I teach and perform at schools as well as do a small but increasing amount of corporate work. When I teach my students can see a portion of it as it comes down to the bottom of my bicep. Conversely, when I perfom magic my costume does cover my tattoo. I wouldn't have any concern showing it but since it's covered there isn't any issue. Still, if someone didn't want to hire me because I have a tattoo I wouldn't want to work for them. That's one of the benefits if being a self employed artist...I don't have to kowtow to narrow minded people who judge others based upon some assinine standard.

Jeff

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Posted by: Natanel (Feb 6, 2010 5:38pm)

Here is a ~very~ fresh tattoo, heavily magic inspired.

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Posted by: MagicJack99 (Apr 25, 2010 12:06am)

Tattooed People don't care if your NOT tattooed..... I have full sleeves of tattoo and a full back piece. I do most of my shows in a Tux so it was never an issue anyway. But when I do close up I usually have long sleeves and then roll them up at some point, I usually get a comment of "NICE ARTWORK" I have never had a negative comment from an audience member. The only negative comments I ever get are from other fellow Christians who don't understand that the Bible refers to not getting Tattooed in connection with mourning the dead...and they are usually the ones who "Cut their beards", And as far as the body as a temple, Paul was referring to sexual matters, not Tattoos.Additional, Don't temple walls have artwork on them too? But as far a magic, if you have tattoos, I say who cares don't hide them unless they have offensive words or pictures, and who ever it was that said stupid people get tattooed, I guess I need to return my A.S, BFA, MA, and PhD???? Finally, I would think that people who are going to be offended by a magician with tattoos would not be at the show anyway, they are probably the same people who think Magic is Magik as in witchcraft. If you are a good person, a good entertainer and really care about your audience, a tattoo or two, or 200 will not make a difference today.
Just my opinion..

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Posted by: NathanHimes (May 12, 2010 3:53pm)

I had a friend with a large tattoo on his arm with a name and date, it was his fathers name and the date he died.

he performed close up magic, with the tattoo showing, he would do a few effects, then do a "dedication" by doing the effect his father enjoyed most, and told a little story while doing the effect of how his dad would always make him do that one.

He took it and made it meaningful, the audience loved it, it made them have a real connection with the performer.

If yours is a significant person and date maybe you can use that to allow it to show.

-Nathan Himes

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Posted by: NathanHimes (May 12, 2010 3:57pm)

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Posted by: aaronharp88 (Nov 28, 2010 10:41pm)

I have a tattoo on both forearms one arm says magic and the other arm says man with a magic hat

I was very nervous to get this because of kid shows.....i have never had anyone say anything or make attention to the tattoos most kid shows I try to keep it covered up though.

the last thing I want is a young child saying they want to be like me with a cool tattoo or something