As Valentine’s Day approaches, the traditional expressions of love – chocolates, flowers, and romantic dinners – are increasingly being complimented by a more permanent and, dare we say, audacious declaration: tattoos.
But forget the clichéd heart shapes of yesteryear, the modern romantic tattoo is getting a cheekier, more nuanced upgrade, and local artist Myra Brodsky is at the forefront of this evolving trend. Brodsky, an experienced tattoo artist known for her delicate, fine-line work, has observed a significant shift in how people are choosing to express their bonds, particularly around Valentine’s Day.
“There’s definitely been a change,” Brodsky explains, “In the past, the idea of getting a tattoo that represented a relationship was often seen as a major risk, almost jinxing things. People were hesitant, playing it very safe with general symbols. But that’s changing. Now, my clients are much more open to creative, even playful concepts.”
This shift, Brodsky explains, is indicative of a broader cultural change in how we view relationships and commitment. People are no longer shying away from expressing individuality within their partnerships, choosing instead to celebrate the specific quirks and nuances that make each relationship unique. While the size of tattoos may be trending smaller – with Brodsky’s signature fine-line style proving ever popular – the ideas behind them are often far more substantial and, in some cases, daring.
“We’re seeing a lot of humor, a lot of unexpected backstories,” Brodsky continues, “It’s not just about declaring ‘I love you’ in ink. It’s about capturing a shared experience, an inside joke, something that reflects the relationship in a fun, more engaging way.” This move towards the personalized is a marked departure from the more generic romantic imagery of the past. It seems we’ve officially moved beyond the days of simply etching initials in a heart.
That’s not to say traditional themes are entirely absent. Minimalist, symbolic designs such as hearts, flowers, and even geometric shapes continue to be popular choices for Valentine’s Day. Brodsky notes the enduring appeal of subtle elegance, with many opting for small, decorative motifs. Furthermore, the classics are making a comeback, with couples choosing to get each other’s initials or zodiac signs, perhaps with a modern twist that elevates the traditional.
This trend isn’t just confined to those in romantic relationships. Brodsky also sees an increase in friends coming in for tattoos that illustrate shared experiences or inside jokes. This reflects a deepening appreciation for platonic bonds and a desire to mark those connections just as meaningful as romantic ones. This expansion of the tradition only elevates the current trend.
While some may criticize this more free approach to relationship tattoos as impulsive, there’s an argument to be made for celebrating the joy and uniqueness of human connection in a way that resonates.
Brodsky’s perspective provides a valuable insight into this cultural shift, illustrating how our approach to love and relationships is evolving. It’s an evolution marked by a willingness to embrace individuality, humor, and the truly unique nature of our bonds. In the age of the fine-line tattoo, it seems, love is getting a bold, yet understated, upgrade – and it’s leaving a beautiful mark on the human landscape.
“This year, I’m focusing on fine lines and delicate work executed with great detail and precision,” said Brodsky. “I also use a lot of shading and small accents to give the tattoos depth without overloading them. The priority, of course, remains creating designs that customers will love for a long time and that are timeless.”
Fine lines offer a very elegant and delicate aesthetic that many people find beautiful. They are more subtle and can be easily combined with other designs, which makes them versatile. Additionally, they are less painful and perfect for small, detailed artwork. Some designs are so fine and small that they are only noticeable at a second glance. People love the idea of having a discreet tattoo that serves as a simple adornment.
Her advice for couples is not a one-size-fits-all approach. “It depends entirely on the couple,” said Brodsky. “Some choose matching tattoos that clearly symbolize their connection, like two hearts or intertwined initials. Others prefer tattoos that complement each other.”
For example, Brodsky has inked two halves of an avocado multiple times—one with the pit and the other without. There are also designs that start on one person’s body and continue on the other’s, creating a complete image only when the two are side by side. “I think everyone has their own idea here,” she said. “Of course, I’m always ready to advise my clients and even discourage certain ideas if they don’t produce a good technical result. The most important thing is that the tattoos I create for my clients are beautiful and hold personal meaning.”
Follow @myra.brodsky on Instagram and check out her website myra-brodsky.com.
