Tattoos are an art that many find cute and hip to have. Of course the thought of permanently scarring one’s body might make another cringe but these days, many women are embracing the trend.

Gone are the days when women shied away from them because they were looked at as something for ‘hooligans’. In fact, these days, women show them off proudly. Some even have more than one. For some, it’s merely art, to others, a form of expression.

Jane Iliza, a hair stylish in town, has ‘Jesus’ tattooed on her left arm. Asked why she chose the name, she said, "First of all I’m a Christian, so having the name Jesus on my arm means I’m linked to Him. It is a reminder of how He is my whole life. It’s also a way of showing just how much I value Him.”

However, Iliza says that save for the memory; the art is also an expression for some. And for youngsters, it’s merely fashion.

Zouzou Gentil, is a tattoo artist at Creative Bridges in Nyamirambo. He says that for one to become a tattoo artist, they should be an actual artist first. That way, they can come up with great patterns and designs.

"As an artist, it’s easy to draw the pattern or design that one wants. For instance, animal portraits, it’s hard to get it right if your passion is not drawing,” he says.

He points out that designs such as floral patterns are flawless and they never go out of fashion, especially for women. He says that when drawn on one’s skin, they are gorgeous.

"Most women like to go with a butterfly or flowers, drawn on their legs, arms, chest and even back,” adds Zouzou.

He advises that for any tattoo to be done, the needle used should be brand new. And it should not be used by another person to ensure safety and prevent the spread of diseases.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw