Brooke Long from Maryland
Where did you grow up?
A
small city north of Baltimore.
How was it growing up there,
would you say that it influenced you?
I
loved growing up here, my extended family lived only minutes away, and our
large Italian family would get together once a week for spaghetti dinner. But
living in a small city with limited opportunities
for tattooed/alternative models has definitely influenced me to push my
modeling career full-fledged
myself.
When did you start getting
tattoos?
I
started getting tattoos when I was 23 years old. I've always wanted
tattoos, but was nervous about getting them (I’m a baby when it comes to pain).
But now knowing the pain is a small price to pay for art that lasts forever.
How would you describe your
style?
A
mix of everything, rocker, punky, retro, glam. I keep it unique.
Do you consider tattoos as a
serious art form?
Yes
I do. The best form of art in my opinion. Each tattoo is specifically unique to
each person. Each tattoo tells a story of the persons past, and what
they have been through in their life. Tattoos are your skins journal.
How do you see the tattoo
culture right now?
The
tattoo culture has grown immensely in the past few years. Unfortunately it
has become very trendy. But the art of tattooing has advanced so
amazingly and the artists have evolved that everyone wants a beautiful work of art on them.
What has been your
inspiration for getting them?
Different
things I've been through in my life. Highs, lows and things that inspire me.
What’s your favorite piece?
I
have a broken hand mirror on my arm, and a banner wrapping around its handle
saying, "You don't
define me", I’ve always had self-esteem issues and the broken mirror
symbolizes not letting
culture and the world define who you are. Learn
to love yourself in your own skin.
Do you catch people starring
at you because of your ink?
Yes.
I don't mind people looking, it’s the negativity and close mindedness from
people that don't understand tattoos that I don't like. People have said
some very nasty things to me about being a
young girl with tons of tattoos. Some people don't appreciate the art of
tattooing.
In your opinion, do your
tattoos change your mood often?
Yes,
in a way. When I’m going through hard times and see my tattoos, it sort of
gives me hope that I will get through whatever it is I’m going
through.
What advice would you give to
someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
Make
sure you'll love it forever. Don't get something just to get it. Make it
mean something to you.
Will you be getting anymore?
Absolutely!
What’s your biggest
inspiration, what keeps you going?
I'm
a Christian, so living my life for the Lord is what keeps me going.
What is one thing that life
has taught you?
There's
too much hate in this world, love a lot and be the change.
Do you have a favorite quote?
"To
thine own self be true" -ShakespeareFacebook Page