Jim Ward
Managing Editor of Design & Layout

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that has.” —Margaret Mead

Thinking back to the early days of the APP, I have to marvel at how far the organization has come, but what is really amazing is that it made it into existence at all.

When Modern Primitives hit the bookstores in 1989, body modification, and particularly body piercing, hit the big time. Studios began popping up overnight like fungi after a spring rain. Few, if any, of the owners had any actual training or experience, and the competition was fierce. Rivalries were intense. There was little common ground.

The following is from my book Running the Gauntlet: “In 1994 the State of California was poised to pass legislation (Assembly Bill 3787) that would regulate body piercing, tattooing, and permanent cosmetics. A handful of piercers from several studios began to network and strategize how best to assure that these forms of body modification were not outlawed. Those who met at the Gauntlet corporate office for those early meetings included Raelyn Gallina, several representatives from Body Manipulations, Nomad, and Primeval Body in L.A. Along with some of his students, including Idexa, Fakir also attended. The office was full. As the pending legislation grew closer to passing, a group got together and drove to Sacramento. Michaela spoke on behalf of the industry during one of the hearings for the bill. She also did a number of television interviews. The bill ultimately failed thanks to lobbying by the ear-piercing gun manufacturers. However, this did not end the threats to the industry, and the need for a professional organization to deal with them.”

The APP was the organization that sprang from this need. A handful of rivals managed to set aside their differences and come together for their common good. Even though there are still differences, the APP has been able to grow and thrive. When a group of people work together for the common good, it’s amazing what they can accomplish. Happy 20th Anniversary!