The meaning of the tattoos on the bodies of members of the criminal gangs known as maras is a mystery that has always surrounded these organizations. In 2014, Honduran law enforcement claimed to have deciphered the symbolic background of these markings. Mara Salvatrucha (MS13) and Barrio 18 are the country’s most notorious syndicates, mainly due to their outrageous tattoos.
These groups can startle anyone walking down the street in some area of the Northern Triangle of Central America. It’s not uncommon to see someone completely covered in tattoos in Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. According to police investigations in Honduras, and a subsequent publication in “El Heraldo”, each of the symbols etched on the faces of the maras have a specific and interesting significance.
Among the modern hieroglyphs that have been decoded we find the plegarias, which feature two hands together in prayer. Experts believe this implies reflection and regret for the things these gang members have done. But it can also be a way of recognizing how they can never leave their lifestyle behind.
The spider web tattoos, usually located on the shoulders, knees, and other visible areas of the mara’s bodies, represent power and expansion. The barbed wires are usually seen on the body’s curved areas and represent submission and enslavement to the life they lead. The image of The Lady of Guadalupe is particularly popular amongst the members of Barrio 18, which has Mexican origins, since it represents a divine power that brings protections to the maras.
Like these, there are several other symbols that have a reason and meaning for those carrying them on their skin. These tattoos might not be the most aesthetic, delicate, or even visually pleasing, but they carry a symbolism that goes beyond the physical. That’s why the members of these groups chose to have them on their arms, backs, and abdomen, as well as their face, head, and almost every inch of their body.
While the number 18 etched on the face is a cultural tradition within these organizations, there is no actual need or excuse for you to get a non-visually pleasing tattoo. Running to the local parlor to get something that will be out of style next month is ridiculous. Same goes for choosing a design you’re still not quite sure of. Permanently marking your skin without having a clear picture of what the final result will be can only lead to one ending: you’ll carry one of those tattoos that don’t look good on you or anyone else.
Face tattoos
Whether we like it or not there is still rampant discrimination, in the work place and social circles, towards tattooed people. Add that to having a tattoo that will always be visible and makes it difficult for people to see you without looking at the design.
White ink tattoos
These can be achieved in a beautiful way by an artist that is an expert at using this kind of ink. However there are plenty of variables that can affect the result such as the design, skin type, and aftercare. Unless you’ve done plenty of research, this style ends ups looking like a scar of a homemade tattoo attempt with a compass.
Wrongly placed tattoos
If what you’re looking for is a discreet tattoo you can keep secret from your conservative family or workplace, there are plenty of options out there, as well as artists who are more than willing to suggest ideas. But please, don’t go choosing the most outlandish regions of your body such as your armpits and soles of your feet.
Selfportraits
There’s a million ways to prove your proud narcissism to the world. But getting your own face tattooed on your body might end up being the worst way of showing self-love.
Watercolor lettering
This style is already a complicated technique that not every artist is capable of achieving. But adding words to the splotches of “paint” will take away from the artistry and just look disastrous.
Celebrities
It’s totally cool and fun for you to be a fan of Johnny Depp’s movies or Frida Khalo’s life story. But it’s a little overboard to get their face tattooed on your body. Instead of getting the face the Joker, how about a symbol or an element that alludes to the character while still keeping with a beautiful design?
Tattoos tell our life stories. So consider the story you want to share with the world instead of filling your skin with items you’ll regret in the long run. Remember it’s always more painful and expensive to get a tattoo covered or removed than giving it a little prior thought before choosing what to get.
Source
Translated by María Suárez
