Invading personal space without permission is an act of aggression. It’s hardwired into our brains. That’s why you often see people with their faces inches apart when they argue or when someone reaches and grabs the arm of someone leaving. It’s a way to appear more powerful during nervous or troublesome situations.
If all of the tattooed population are small museums of art, then I am a private showing. I didn’t get my art for anyone but myself. It belongs to me. I wouldn’t let someone touch my sandwich because they were curious about what kind it is so you can be certain that I don’t want them touching my skin, without permission. I don’t mind curious folks asking about my art and experiences. I’ll gladly share to someone willing to ask but I’m not at all comfortable with strangers touching me or trying to move my clothing around to get a better peek.
Now, I’ve never had to deal with any touchers. Although I don’t agree, I’ve been told that I look “scary” and “threatening” so that could have something to do with it. Lots of folks are frightened by long beards and visible tattoos together. But, if I ever do encounter one, I will gladly let them know that I don’t approve of their behavior. I mean, I don’t go around grabbing the tits of women who get breast augmentations even though they’re visible most of the time. But, don’t get me wrong, I love tits and it would be nice to go around grabbing at the ones people had augmented. It’s just not acceptable though. You have to respect peoples personal space, even if they did get a visible body modification. A visible body mod doesn’t mean that they become public property to be groped or even poked at.
If you like it, that’s fine. That has no effect on me. It doesn’t come with the territory though. People shouldn’t be touching without permission under any circumstance. If they have the courage to ask me if they can see or touch them, then you bet! I’ll converse and show off as much as they want. Don’t expect to invade my space and not eat some teeth for it, though.