the story continues; semicolon tattoo event

Sunday, Feb. 2

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Visionaire Barbershop & Tattoo Parlor

1044 Mt Vernon Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

Our annual semicolon tattoo event – now named “the story continues; semicolon tattoo event” – will be held Sunday, Feb. 2 from 10-2 p.m. at Visionaire Barbershop & Tattoo Parlor in Cedar Rapids. Tattoos provided by Art with Lin and other local tattoo artists. Tattoos are provided on a walk-in basis. Cash only. $75-$100 based on size.

Learn more on our Facebook page.

The semicolon tattoo is a symbol of mental health awareness, resilience and solidarity, particularly in the context of suicide prevention. It originated from Project Semicolon, a movement founded in 2013 to support individuals struggling with mental illness, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

In writing, a semicolon represents a pause in a sentence rather than an end, symbolizing that your story isn’t over. For those who get the tattoo, it often means:

Survival: They’ve chosen to continue their story despite challenges.

Hope: A reminder that life can get better.

Support: Solidarity with others facing similar struggles, showing they are not alone.

The semicolon tattoo is deeply personal, often serving as a conversation starter to spread awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health

This year’s designs: