Everyone has something that symbolizes their journey in life, and for Elkhorn High School senior, Hunter Youngblood, that is her tattoos. She went from 0 to 21 tattoos in just 9 months. She got her first tattoo done by her best friend with a thumbtack and some ink. On her skin was marked “amal,” which is the Arabic word for hope.

“My tattoos signify my journey in life. Life is a crazy thing and some of us have been through a lot more than others. These tattoos are a part of me and represent who I am.” Youngblood said.

Despite the abilities of tattoos to show creative expression, there is often a sense of judgment and negativity towards students who have tattoos.

Even in today’s society, those who have tattoos are often classified as the misfits and the trouble-makers. Youngblood admits she faces certain judgment from people because of her tattoos, including her parents.

“At first my parents didn’t care, but once I started getting more, they started hating it. However, my friends are super supportive and say that they’re really cool.” Youngblood said.

She does not let the thoughts of others bring her down and she doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

A rose lies on Youngblood’s pale wrist. It is her favorite tattoo; a symbol of strength.

“The rose is my favorite because my grandma’s favorite flowers were roses and always said that the rose was her strength. It’s all about how every rose has their thorns but they are still beautiful in their own way.” Youngblood said.

This prickly journey of hers all started with a couple of videos on Instagram that peaked her interest with tattoos. With the support of her friends, she was able to commit to the permanent ink that now decorates her skin.

Not only does Youngblood plan on getting more tattoos in the future, but she also hopes on becoming a tattoo artist herself.

“I would love to someday open up my own shop, and not necessarily draw the designs, but more importantly I want to actually tattoo the designs onto the clients,” Youngblood said,

Tattoos are another form of art and Youngblood is her own personal artists. The majority of her tattoos she even has even tattooed herself.

“When I’m bored or just sitting around I’ll feel like giving myself a tattoo so I just do it,” Youngblood said.

The beautiful designs that forever mark Youngblood’s skin help tell her story without any words necessary.

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