“History Ink” tattoos Richmond

Hal Dockins
Contributing Writer

The art of tattooing was once a taboo subject in America, but Richmonders are slowly starting to change that view by embracing the art form.

According to a report by NBC News, Richmond is the third most tattooed city in the U.S. and all one needs to do is come out to the Valentine Richmond History Center to see why.

The city of Richmond averages about 14.5 tattoo shops per 100,000 people — and that’s just within the city itself, according to the report. The Valentine Richmond History Center celebrated the opening of a new exhibit on Friday, Nov. 2, titled “History Ink: The Tattoo Archive Project,” showcasing the work of many of Richmond’s top tattoo artists.

VCU senior Carlee Olsen photographed many of the tattoos on display at “History Ink.”

“I think it’s good that someone is documenting that Richmond is as tatted up as it is,” Olsen said. “There are so many talented tattoo artists here.”

The NBC News report listed the “big arts and college community,” and the fact that the surrounding suburbs contain even more tattoo shops as reasons for the wealth of tattoos in Richmond.

While there are many reasons for someone to get a tattoo, for Olsen it’s all about the experience.

“I love the feeling,” Olsen said. “It’s such an addicting feeling. It’s such a rush.”

Olsen has many tattoos on her body, most of which are associated with her pride in being in the Navy. Tattoos on those serving in the Navy are a common trend, but according to Olson “they wouldn’t want you to know that.”

Richmond native Diana Wilder had her tattoo displayed in the gallery. An elaborate design which spans the length of her back, it features the word “CANDY” modeled after the board game “Candy Land,” as well as a tall creature adorned with a crown. The design is a tribute to the paths she took in life.

“I’m really into Chilean culture and I eat candy nonstop. It’s supposed to be Chilo candy and Chilo culture,” Wilder said. “I love art (and) I’m an art collector. Every time I go somewhere in my life, I get a tattoo to symbolize where I am.”

Director of Public Relations and Marketing of the Valentine Richmond History Center Domenick Casuccio helped launch the gallery to spread word of Richmond’s title as a mecca for tattoo parlors and shops.

“The idea came about when NBC’s Today Show named Richmond the third most tattooed city,” Casuccio said. “We met with Style Weekly and then did a call for models. We did three photo sessions and photographed a little over 100 people.”

A number of VCU students had their tattoos represented and Casuccio praised the exhibit for its diversity.

“It is a testament to what Virginia is becoming as an art community,” Casuccio said. “We are doing some exciting things and the Valentine is just trying to add a piece to that collection.”