My tattoo journey is one of expression, rebellion and healing. Growing up Asian American tattoos was considered taboo, but I am a pioneer.
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My most recent tattoo was on my birthday. It is a deer with arrows in it, representing the injuries I carried spiritually and mentally from a lifetime of trials and tribulations. My upcoming tattoo appointment is SAK YANT on the back of my neck. SAK YANT is very sacred in my culture and we believe it brings protection and blessings. A monk is present to bless the tattoo.
If your ink could speak, what would it say?My ink tells stories of my youth, my pain, trauma and healing. I got most of my tattoos after I started my sobriety journey, and today I am 2 years free from addiction. I look at my older tattoos that my best friend, Joe, gave me and think of the times we were able to share before he passed away. My US Navy tattoos pulls me back to an era when I was serving as a Sailor. My ink shows my taste in pop culture such as manga and music. Additionally, my deep love for Khmer culture.
What would you do with the $25,000?I’d start paying off my debt and school and invest in retirement savings. I’d also invest into my clothing brand “Misfit’s Island” where I express my graphic design skills. Lastly, I want to take a trip back to the motherland and show my wife the beautiful, cultural roots of Cambodia. And of course, get more tattoos. My dream is to represent Asian Americans that we may be celebrated for our expression and ancestry.
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Body art deserves to be shown off.
