In the annals of internet history, certain moments become indelibly etched in our collective memory. For many who were online in 2012, the “Butthole Tattoo Girl” video is undoubtedly one of those moments. As a content creator for tattooat.com, and someone who was actually involved in the creation of this viral sensation, I’m here to delve into the story behind the infamous video and reflect on its impact within the tattoo community and beyond.
It all began at the South Florida Tattoo Expo. Back then, I was working as a music editor for New Times Broward-Palm Beach, always on the lookout for unique stories. My colleague, Jake Katel, a talented videographer, and I were at the expo to capture some interesting content. We were aiming to create videos featuring individuals with alternative lifestyles and, of course, highlight the artistry within the tattoo world. Little did we know, we were about to stumble upon a story that would explode across the internet.
While filming interviews, a woman approached us with an unexpected proposition. She asked if we’d like to see her tattoo. Lifting her skirt, she revealed a tattoo encircling her anus. It was, to put it mildly, a surprising sight. My initial reaction was shock, but the people around us in the hotel lobby found it hilarious. Later, we noticed a crowd gathering around the same woman as she was getting the “butthole tattoo” covered up with new ink. Jake, ever the journalist, urged me to interview her while the cover-up was in progress. Hesitantly, but recognizing the story’s potential, I agreed.
It turned out the woman’s name was Maria. Despite my initial shock, I found myself drawn to her personality and willingness to share her story. She even likened her name to “Maria from West Side Story,” adding a layer of unexpected humanity to the situation. Although she later confessed to being intoxicated during the initial tattooing (“I had ten shots of Jäger in me”), at the moment, she was vibrant and excited about the attention. “It feels so good!” she exclaimed in the video, embracing the spectacle.
The video went viral almost instantly. In 2012, organic viral content was still a phenomenon, and Maria’s “butthole tattoo” video became a prime example. BuzzFeed even declared it “the number one insane thing to happen in Florida” that year, quite a statement considering the infamous “Miami Zombie” incident also occurred in 2012. The video’s reach extended far beyond the tattoo community, appearing on major platforms like Real Time With Bill Maher, Comedy Central, and MTV.
For a brief period, I experienced a taste of internet fame. People recognized me, and the video became a talking point. It was a strange mix of excitement and anxiety, wondering if this unexpected viral moment would define my career. However, returning to the tattoo convention the following year was a genuinely positive experience. The tattoo community was incredibly welcoming, and it felt like I was part of something unique and accepting.
Reflecting on the “butthole tattoo” video years later, it’s clear why it resonated with so many people. Beyond the shock value of the tattoo itself, there was a raw human element. Maria’s willingness to be herself, her touch of vulnerability mixed with showmanship, and perhaps even the slightly absurd nature of the whole situation, contributed to its viral appeal. It also highlighted the tattoo community’s openness and acceptance of individuality, even when expressed in unconventional ways. While some might view a “butthole tattoo” as extreme, within the world of body art, it’s simply another form of personal expression.
The “butthole tattoo girl” video remains a fascinating case study in internet virality and the power of unexpected content. It underscores how seemingly ordinary events, when captured and shared online, can become global sensations. For tattooat.com, it also serves as a reminder of the diverse and often surprising world of tattoos, where personal stories and artistic expression intersect in the most unexpected ways. And while “butthole tattoos” might not be for everyone, Maria’s story is a testament to the enduring allure of individuality and the internet’s insatiable appetite for the unconventional.
