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The zoom call with Rich Stremme was really interesting. I enjoyed learning about the history of tattooing and his experience in the Underground. Before the call I didn’t know tattooing was first used by sailors, so I found that pretty interesting. I’m really glad I got to find out about his favorite piece he tattooed about the molecules spelling out “I am starstuff.” Overall, he’s a really cool guy with an awesome beard.

Getting to hear Rich’s insight on the art of tattoos was surprisingly very interesting. The way the industry has changed over time, with the use of needles and machine types, is also insane. I can’t imagine the older or other cultures’ practices. Also the inclusion of how activism and advocacy can be blended into tattooing is remarkable. How Patty wouldn’t let the guy who wanted a racist tattoo get it done by her was pretty iconic. He did include a heart wrencher with the guy, (Norman?) who was shot by the police for appearing to be dangerous and suspicious at a rally simply because of his tattooed appearance. The truth behind why tattoos are so looked down upon is a sad truth, and I love how Rich tries to change that stigma through his art and continued advocacy.

Rich Stremme seemed like a really cool guy. His presentation on the history of tattoos was really interesting and he was funny too. It was cool to see how much the industry has changed while also staying kind of the same in a lot of ways. I loved how he included real photos of people he knew and his equipment. I think that the kind of tattooing he does, and the work of Pat that he mentioned in his presentation, is definitely art.