Pierced and tested?

From September, tattoo enthusiasts can formally train at the school. The part-time DAP (Diploma of Vocational Aptitude) Tattoo is considered a small revolution in the industry, as nowhere else in the world is there a state-organised training course for tattoo artists. The fact that something is now moving in the tattoo sector also raises questions about other industries linked to tattoo culture. Many studios not only tattoo, but also pierce – a profession that is still subject to very few rules. Steven Kolling is one professional who is nevertheless strongly committed to his profession both on a national and international level.

The piercer, who currently works at the Mindbomb Avenue studio in Grevenmacher, set up his own business in 2018. Kolling trained for over two years in a piercing studio in Germany, as this is the common way for young piercers to learn. "You just ask if they want to train you, " says the piercer. There is no recognised training for the profession. "In Luxembourg, you have to have worked in any profession for three years to be able to open a studio and there is the 21-hour seminar from Marion Thill's Hair Beauty Tattoo Guild Luxembourg on hygiene requirements, but otherwise there are no regulations in this country, " explains Kolling.

The advantages and disadvantages of laws

The piercer believes it is difficult to properly regulate work in studios and therefore offer the kind of training that has now been developed for prospective tattooists. There are many things that you simply have to teach yourself or learn from watching, while others require regulations to protect the health of everyone involved. "We have a huge responsibility towards our customers, but I have mixed feelings about regulations and laws, " says the piercer. On the one hand, regulations regarding applied hygiene concepts or certain legal age limits are an absolute must, on the other hand, laws often lag behind developments on the market and can therefore hinder progress: "I think we need a certain legal framework, but anything that interferes too much with our work processes restricts us as professionals in our development."

Much of what was considered common practice just a few years ago is now outdated, as knowledge of piercing techniques and scar behaviour is constantly evolving. Nevertheless, Kolling's personal and professional goal is to do justice to the art of his profession as much as possible. "Piercing is a passion for me, so I only want to offer my customers the best." Working in the high-quality sector requires strict hygiene standards, constantly evolving technology and jewellery that is not only certified by international bodies, but is also 100 per cent safe for customers.