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The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » The clothes we wear » » Tattoos Printer Friendly Version
RJE

Inner circle

1855 Posts
Posted: Dec 10, 2008 12:33pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of RJE  

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!
Alan Munro

Inner circle
Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
5441 Posts
Posted: Dec 10, 2008 7:43pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Alan Munro  

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.

http://www.sneakymagician.com/
RJE

Inner circle

1855 Posts
Posted: Dec 12, 2008 6:35am    Reply with quote   View Profile of RJE  

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

Inner circle
Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
5441 Posts
Posted: Dec 13, 2008 8:10am    Reply with quote   View Profile of Alan Munro  

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

http://www.sneakymagician.com/
Caveat Lector

Elite user

493 Posts
Posted: Dec 29, 2008 12:41pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Caveat Lector  

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

Corrupting the art of magic, one show at a time
www.underworldent.com
www.myspace.com/johnshawcomedymagic
ferrissteve

New user

88 Posts
Posted: Jan 21, 2009 2:19pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of ferrissteve  

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??
meitzmagic

Loyal user
Distant Land Of Shmooo
280 Posts
Posted: Jan 27, 2009 4:34pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of meitzmagic  

Here is my new ink, hope you enjoy!

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

Justin S. Meitz
www.justinmeitz.com
www.theamazingalexander.com

Now Shipping DEEP & AAA Book Test! Visit www.justinmeitz.com To Learn More!
Lawrence O

Inner circle
Paris France
6321 Posts
Posted: Jan 29, 2009 6:55am    Reply with quote   View Profile of Lawrence O  

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.

Magic is not a performing art where people don't know how situations are reached, it's the art of showing parallel dimensions that can't be reached
gsidhe

Inner circle
Michigan
1721 Posts
Posted: Feb 5, 2009 12:55pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of gsidhe  

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

www.knottybitssideshow.com
www.kbsideshow.com
Destiny

Inner circle

1550 Posts
Posted: Feb 5, 2009 1:02pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Destiny  

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
thegreatnippulini

Inner circle
of Hell because I've made
2544 Posts
Posted: Feb 6, 2009 9:50am    Reply with quote   View Profile of thegreatnippulini  

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.

The Great Nippulini: body piercer, Guinness World Record holder, blacksmith and man with The World's Strongest Nipples! Does the WORLD care? We shall see...
http://www.greatnippulini.com
RJE

Inner circle

1855 Posts
Posted: Feb 6, 2009 12:11pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of RJE  

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.
Destiny

Inner circle

1550 Posts
Posted: Feb 6, 2009 1:10pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Destiny  

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

No biggie anymore.

Destiny
Magicman0323

Special user
Just outside parts unknown.
690 Posts
Posted: Mar 29, 2009 11:54pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Magicman0323  

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 !

You'll wonder when I'm coming, you'll wonder even more when I'm gone. - Max Malini
Magicman0323

Special user
Just outside parts unknown.
690 Posts
Posted: Mar 29, 2009 11:55pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Magicman0323  

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

You'll wonder when I'm coming, you'll wonder even more when I'm gone. - Max Malini
Natanel

Special user

739 Posts
Posted: Mar 30, 2009 5:39pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Natanel  

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.

People who work for Theory 11: Do you want a young guy without a stupid gelled haircut or eurotrash jeans for your videos? PM me.
here2009

Regular user

102 Posts
Posted: Mar 31, 2009 2:32pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of here2009  

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.
thegreatnippulini

Inner circle
of Hell because I've made
2544 Posts
Posted: Mar 31, 2009 5:41pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of thegreatnippulini  

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.

The Great Nippulini: body piercer, Guinness World Record holder, blacksmith and man with The World's Strongest Nipples! Does the WORLD care? We shall see...
http://www.greatnippulini.com
lewisswiresmagic

New user
London
35 Posts
Posted: Apr 3, 2009 9:05am    Reply with quote   View Profile of lewisswiresmagic  

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.
modfrog

New user
winchester
73 Posts
Posted: Apr 24, 2009 10:09pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of modfrog  

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.
SolitarySoul

New user
Doylestown, PA
60 Posts
Posted: May 5, 2009 3:30pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of SolitarySoul  

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.
ohiomagic

New user

57 Posts
Posted: Nov 18, 2009 6:17pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of ohiomagic  

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.
The Great Smartini

Inner circle

2282 Posts
Posted: Dec 6, 2009 2:55am    Reply with quote   View Profile of The Great Smartini  

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
The Great Smartini

Inner circle

2282 Posts
Posted: Dec 6, 2009 2:58am    Reply with quote   View Profile of The Great Smartini  

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
Natanel

Special user

739 Posts
Posted: Feb 6, 2010 5:38pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of Natanel  

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



People who work for Theory 11: Do you want a young guy without a stupid gelled haircut or eurotrash jeans for your videos? PM me.
MagicJack99

New user
North Pole, Alaska
34 Posts
Posted: Apr 25, 2010 12:06am    Reply with quote   View Profile of MagicJack99  

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..
NathanHimes

New user

31 Posts
Posted: May 12, 2010 3:53pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of NathanHimes  

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
NathanHimes

New user

31 Posts
Posted: May 12, 2010 3:57pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of NathanHimes  

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
aaronharp88

New user

68 Posts
Posted: Nov 28, 2010 10:41pm    Reply with quote   View Profile of aaronharp88  

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
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