Tattoo Artist Spends Free Time Covering Scars Of DV & Self-Harm Survivors

TRIGGER WARNING: This post discusses domestic violence and self-harm.


The emotional scars of domestic violence and a period in one’s life dark enough to trigger self-harm aren’t easy to erase.
But the physical scars? They’re easier to erase when you’re ready, or at least that’s the theory behind an American tattooist inking over people’s scars from domestic violence, human trafficking or self-harm for free.
The legend’s name is Brian Finn, and he works for Infinite Art Tattoo in Toledo, Ohio, where he’s spent one day a week since October last year working on the amazing project – he’s produced 5 tattoos thus far, with bookings all the way up to April.
“It’s just something I can do that won’t take much time that can make a big impact on other people,” he told The Huffington Post. “A tattoo can help disguise the scars, so… it’s like a new chapter.”
A tattooist for 17 years, Finn has come across dozens of clients with trauma-related scars, but many of them hadn’t thought to ink over them because of the financial costs – big tattoos can get exxy.
That’s why he decided to cover the cost himself, so they’d be able to turn over a new leaf no matter their financial sitcho.
Covers he’s done so far include a rose, to cover self-harm scars:
A Celtic knot, again to cover self-inflicted wounds.

Covering #selfinflicted #scar today at no charge. #healing #loveyourself #beexcelenttoeachother #toledocitypaper

A photo posted by Brian Finn (@brianfinnstagram) on

Each one is unique and fkn awesome.
Some of Finn’s customers talk about their experiences as he’s working on them, but others like to keep quiet – either is fine by him.
Everyone, though, has the same powerful reaction when they see the final results.
“There’s definitely been tears involved – of happiness,” he says. “It’s been a great response.”

Know of any tattoo artists doing similar great work in Australia? Email us at editor@pedestriangroup.com.au.

If this post has in any way been triggering, please call 1800 RESPECT on 1300 737 732 for 24/7 domestic violence and sexual abuse support, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for 24/7 mental health support, or the suicide hotline Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Photo: Brian Finn.

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