Two of the most popular tattoo designs for men are tribal tattoos and dragon tattoos. The latter is popular because of the power exhibited by the mythical beast. As in ages and cultures prior to that of the present day, inking a creature upon one’s skin is a way of knowing that creature, of developing an intimate understanding that allows the wearer to obtain inspiration and attributes from and of the designed creature. The latter of the two designs became popular due to its abstract design, and is often applied around the upper arm or along the side of the lower leg, vertically oriented. While the vast popularity, ultimately, had little to do with exploring one’s heritage and more to do with what was thought to be attractive, the overwhelming popularity of such abstract designs over the past years has increased social acceptance of body art. Between 2003 and 2006, the amount of persons age eighteen through twenty-five who had obtained ink designs increased by over twenty percent. This astronomical growth and increased acceptance has changed the industry and cultural values within the span of a single generation. Perhaps these designs do increase influence, for the continuous shift beyond tolerance toward acceptance requires nothing short of power.
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