Tattoo time

Language level: Basic

Standard: American accent

TATTOO TIME

Tattoos are fashionable. Everybody seems to have one, including top stars like Angelina Jolie, Ben Affleck and Eminem. Well, Derby may not be the most fashionable English city, but tattoo enthusiasts from around the world come each year for the State of the Art Tattoo Convention. This year it takes place at the Assembly Rooms on July 21^st and 22^nd.

The world’s top tattoo artist come to take part in the convention’s prestigious competitions, while enthusiasts come to see – and display – spectacular examples of body art. There are three types of award: for small tattoos, which cover a shoulder or arm; large design, which cover half the body; and, finally, “the body suit,” which covers the entire body.

ASK A STUPID QUESTION

Spectators watch the tattoo artists at work. Their first question is always the same: does it hurt? Well, of course, it does! The least painful areas are the arms and shoulders, followed by the back; avoid joints such as knees and ankles, and just forget about your neck. Ouch! And remember: choose the design carefully, go to a registered tattooist, certainly not the cheapest of offer, and insist on new needles and new ink. Legally, you have to be over 18 years old in Britain.

SHOCKING

Why do people get tattoos?

The answer varies: some people love the designs, some want to express their inner selves, while others want to shock. Local teenager Janine says: “My mother told me, proper young ladies do not get tattoos. So I went and got one immediately!”

Finally, there are people like Enigma who make a living from displaying their tattoos as slideshow attractions. Enigma’s body (pictured opposite page, top, left) is completely covered in a blue jigsaw design.