MASONIC
INK
The signs and symbols of Freemasonry that have become a work of modern art
“My body is a memorial”
Tattoos often represent thoughts and feelings that we have not spoken about or acknowledged, even to ourselves. There are no laws that prevent Freemasons from getting tattoos. As the art form has evolved, so has the level of skill and artistic detail in the work — expanding from traditional Masonic symbols to intricate, permanent, personalized expressions of Masonic principles and values.
This month’s spotlight
“One of the coolest things about Freemasonry is that, wow, there is this tradition. I’m learning the same things that people throughout history have learned. To me, there is nothing better. I love that connection. I love that I’m part of that history. The fact that I can go to the Grand Lodge of New York and see the history that goes back to George Washington is so cool to me. I wish I could tattoo George Washington. What do you think he would wear?”
About our Editor
Bro. Antonio “PON” DeCaro discovered tattooing at the age of 15. “My earliest memory is drawing on my little brother with a motorized squiggly pen at the age of 10. When I was 15 years old I received my first tattoo, while vacationing in Italy. That’s when tattooing went from a fascination of mine to deciding that this was what I wanted to do.” His professional work was featured on Season 12 of Ink Master where he was a Top 5 Finalist.
Bro. DeCaro has an eye for unique Masonic tattoos that are coming increasingly visible to the members of our fraternity. “My dream is to help leave the tattoo industry better than when I got in, I have helped shape the career of many tattooers, and it’s my hope that through them I can leave a legacy.”
More Masonic Light
Read our latest blog posts featuring discussions and presenations
The 33 Degrees in Freemasonry
There are 33 degrees in Freemasonry. Our degrees began in France in the year 1725. The new class of scholarly men (Speculative Masons) had discovered written legends from the old Operative Masons.
Clandestine Masonry
Often, when we think of clandestine masons, the idea of someone wearing a masonic ring purchased at an estate sale, possessing an apron that is not their own, or claiming to know “our secrets.”
1945 Grand Lodge
In April 1945, as Most Worshipful Froessel was concluding his first year as Grand Master, he was confronted with a Grand Lodge dilemma – balancing his Masonic obligation by the laws of the land.
The Grand Lodge of Rhode Island
While the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island is a small Masonic Jurisdiction, we have a large and historic heritage with connections to our colonial Brethren.
The Last Moon Lodge in New York State
Warren Lodge #32 holds the historical relevance of being the “Last Moon Lodge in New York State.” RW Steven Adam Rubin shares this story and how Masons can support this special institution.
The Tree of Life
Many theologians look to The Tree of Life to unlock the mysteries of spiritual liberation. Bro. Rene Perez breaks down its meanings for Freemasons.
Oriental Shrine
RW Anthony Prizza shares the history and work of New York State’s most northern Shrine Temple – the Oriental Shrine.
Masonic Aprons, A Marriage of Art and Freemasonry
Masonic aprons, being professionally painted or created by amateur artists, have always been a part of folk art history from the late 1700’s up through the centuries.
Sight Through Symmetry
Throughout March, Bro. Erik LaMarca’s art is part of an exhibition on symmetry at Solas Studio in the Flatiron District.
The Ezra Ames Meritorious Service Award
Congratulations to RW Steven Adam Rubin for receiving the Ezra Ames Meritorious Service Award, the highest award of The Grand Chapter State of New York, Royal Arch Masons.
Share some ink
Is there a Brother that we should feature in an upcoming article? Let us know! Send his contact information in an email by clicking the button below.