MountainMoon is a 40-year-old woman from Ontario. MountainMoon explains that while she envisioned herself getting a tattoo for many years, there were cultural and financial barriers that prevented her from doing so. Growing up in a strict immigrant home, tattoos were not endorsed by her family. After years of struggling with depression, this tattoo was a form of self-reclamation for MountainMoon, who describes experiencing a journey of “becoming the most authentic version of [herself]” since getting the tattoo.
MountainMoon’s tattoo is located on her upper thigh. Not only did this feel like the “right” spot, but also, this location allowed MountainMoon to conceal it as she desired. The tattoo depicts a famous mountain in British Columbia, a blue and purple sky, a crescent moon, a rose in the centre, an olive branch, and a sprig of heather, all of which represent MountainMoon’s heritage and maternal grandmother. The mountain is representative of MountainMoon’s connection to British Columbia, the rose and moon are dedicated to MountainMoon’s grandmother, and the olive branch and heather sprig are reflective of MountainMoon’s Greek and Scottish heritage. Although MountainMoon’s grandmother was not fond of tattoos, her grandmother was an extremely important person in her life. Having this tattoo has allowed MountainMoon to honour her grandmother and feel closer to her spirit.
MountainMoon says: “My grandmother was my favourite person. She often frowned on tattoos but oddly enough I feel like since getting my tattoo that partially honours her, I
feel closer to her spirit.”
STORIES FROM THE SKIN 