Tracy Kovalench
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jul 22/98) - Their reasons vary from self-expression to raw attraction, but as each individual marks themselves, they become part of a growing Northern collective.

Combining today's fashion with traditional markings from the past, a new tribe is emerging from Yellowknife's urban jungle.

Clan initiation involves a needle and the tentative tribesman's choice of metal or ink. A piercing provides temporary acceptance, but tattoos ensure a lifetime membership.

"There's no turning back with tattoos," says Christine Rudolph, a band of black thorns twisting around her right bicep. When it comes to the permanent skin patterns, Rudolph says there's no room for regrets.

A member of both tribes, Rudolph also sports about eight piercings.

"It's my collection," she laughs with regards to a stud in her nose and rings through her ears and both nipples.

Lisa Eshpeter shares Rudolph's holy hobby. A ring through her lip and another inside her ear, Eshpeter says she uses the metal to mark changes in her life.

Recently removing her eyebrow jewelry, Eshpeter says it was time for a change and besides, "I looked too cluttered."

Wary with regards to the penetrating hobby, some Northerners probe for a reason behind the puncture.

"When you pierce an area, you're emphasizing it," says Naomi Griffore, who has a total of five.

Unlike their tattooed brothers and sisters, those sporting intentional injuries must care for their metal decor for sometimes as long as six months.

Horror stories of infection plague those in the piercing world, but smart spike-ees know when to remove their wares.

"If it's endangering your health in any way, it's just not worth it," says Griffore.

The same goes for tattoos, says Dana Jackman, whose tummy became a canvas, but only to a highly recommended skin artist. "It's my pride and joy," she says, looking down at the Van Gogh sunflower design around her belly-button.

The body art attraction also claims many a tribal tot at an early age, but parents need not worry over their children seeking brandage for life. The young folks use temporary tattoos as a visual visitors' pass.

"They look real," says April Heslin from Tattoos in Space -- and people can change them every weekend.

Animals are number 1 on the younger canvases, says Heslin, whereas anyone over 10 goes for tribal art.