Shannon Hughes Getting Tattooed by Chops With Papillon Family Studios

Name: Shannon Hughes

Age: Old enough to know better, but still young enough not to care.

Where are you from?

Lafayette, Louisiana/San Pancho

Why did you choose Papillon Family Studios in Sayulita to get your tattoo?

Came with high recommendations from Gabbi Villarrubia, who is like the tattoo authority in these parts.

So, what tattoo design did you pick?  

A human heart.

What is the significance of this design to you?

Same reason it’s important to all of us -  It’s our main life engine, and I don’t really want mine broken again.

What body part did you choose to get it on and why that body part?

I chose to get it on the palm of my hand, which in hindsight might not have been such a great idea, strictly due to the pain level. (Don’t ever get a tattoo on the palm of your hand). My thinking was, I just want to be more mindful of my heart, so always seeing it on the palm of my hand may help me to do so. And I’m glad I endured the pain - I love it.

What does a tattoo mean to you? Why eternalize something on your body?

To me, tattoos tell a story, or stand for something very symbolic or important. We all have a story to tell and some things mean so much to me that I can think of no better way in which to show it.  It’s one of the biggest commitments you will ever make.

Now, that your tattoo is complete, what is the first thought that comes to mind when you look at it? 

Badass.

How has tattoo culture changed over the years? 

I would not say I am part of the “tattoo culture.” Although I do have several tattoos, it’s a personal thing for me, meaning I know little about the tattoo culture.  I will say the tattoos I have now, I expect to look just as cool when I’m 50+, which I might add, is not that far in the distant future for this gringo.

When did you get your first tattoo?

I lived in the mountains in Alaska and worked as a fishing guide for six months. When I came out of the bush, I went straight to a tattoo shop and got a yin-yang on my ankle. That was over 25 years ago- that is how it all began.

Do you plan on getting more ink?

Without a doubt. With Chops in Sayulita now, it makes it much easier. And, Chops is the man to go to…just sayin’.