My first tattoo was my traditional bird [a barn swallow] on my upper arm. I have 2 of them, one on each upper arm. I was 18, and was drawn to the traditional flash images. I also felt like the bird symbolized freedom - freedom to modify my own body however I wish. I planed on getting a black/gray bird, and wasn't really planning on getting any color tattoos ever at that point, but as soon as the artist [Aaron Ruby at Eternal Ink in Livonia Michigan] outlined the bird in black, I changed my mind and wanted color. When it was finished and I saw the bright blues, reds, and yellows, I was addicted to color.

The next tattoo I'm planning on will be a tribute to Amy Winehouse, who is my favorite musician, and someone I have adored for years. I want to get a lucky horseshoe in the little space I have left on my left upper arm, in the same colors as her horseshoe tattoo. Below that will be a banner with script that says "Amy Jade". I wrote Amy letters every day for 2 years prior to her passing away, and I still write to her every day now. She reminds me of myself in so many ways, and her passing devastated me. I know that I need to do something to immortalize her on my skin.

ankle, sleeve, hands, neck, chest

new skool, old school, fine line

lettering, skulls, mythical, animals, hearts, nautical, stars, zombies, relgious

skulls, birds