News

November 7, 2009

Public art that’s skin deep

PLAINS TWP. – The feminine Japanese art forever inked into the flesh of Melissa Steelman’s upper chest displays delicate cherry blossoms in full bloom.

The tattooed flowers represent beauty and how fragile life is.

On her back is a radiant display of childhood fantasies and whimsical fairies. The rest of the 39-year-old’s body is of traditional Japanese art.

“I love the beauty of art and I love having the art on my skin,” said Steelman, a tattoo enthusiast from North Carolina who attended Inkin’ The Valley convention this weekend in Plains Township.

Steelman was one of 60 contestants in Saturday evening’s tattoo contest. The professional convention and 8th annual Sideshow Gathering was held at The Woodlands Inn & Resort, Route 315.

For the complete story, see Sunday's Times Leader.

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