Electric Linda shares her thoughts on tattoos in Aftenposten: “If you don’t have something nice to say – don’t say anything at all.”

Our very own Electric Linda sat down with Aftenposten to talk about tattoo culture, prejudice, and basic manners. After 25 years in the tattoo industry, she shares her insights – and gives some clear advice to anyone meeting people with ink on their skin.

When the sun comes out and skin is shown, tattoos appear everywhere – on the beach, in the park, in the streets. For many, tattoos are part of their identity, but for others they still spark curiosity or even judgment.
In a recent Aftenposten interview, Electric Linda talks about how people react to her tattoos, and what’s actually okay to say (and what’s not).

Linda has been a leading figure in Norway’s tattoo scene for more than two decades and owns Masterpiece Tattoo Family in Sagene, Oslo – home to eight tattoo artists and one apprentice. Over the years, she’s seen both the style, the clientele, and the general attitude toward tattoos evolve.

“Today, tattoos are for everyone. Twenty-five years ago, almost all my clients were men – now it’s fifty-fifty,” Linda says in the interview.

She also points out that while some people still react negatively, those voices are getting fewer. “It’s mostly older, conservative men who still associate tattoos with sailors or criminals. Luckily, that mindset is fading – and older women, in particular, tend to be super positive,” she says.

When it comes to asking about someone’s tattoos, Linda believes it’s all about basic respect:

“Some tattoos are personal, others are made to spark curiosity. But either way – if you don’t have anything nice to say, just don’t.”

Known for her colorful realism and large-scale designs – full sleeves, backs, and legs – Electric Linda is often described as one of Norway’s leading tattoo artists.

Want to read the full interview? NB. Only in Norwegian

👉 Check it out at Aftenposten here.