Artist gives astonishing temporary tats to kids in hospitals so they feel confident in their own skin
Benjamin Lloyd, a New Zealand tattoo artist, has transformed the sterile environments of children's hospitals into spaces of joy and self-expression by offering non-toxic, temporary tattoos to young patients. Inspired by his own childhood experience of covering a burn scar with drawings, Lloyd's project has grown from a social media promise to a beloved practice over nearly a decade. His intricate designs, ranging from butterflies to metallic stars, have not only provided aesthetic delight but have also bolstered the confidence of countless children, making their hospital stays more bearable and even enjoyable.
Lloyd's work underscores the profound impact of art as a tool for healing and empowerment. By giving children a voice in choosing their tattoo designs, he fosters a sense of agency and self-expression, essential components for psychological well-being. This initiative has garnered widespread admiration, highlighting the power of kindness and creativity in transforming lives, as evidenced by the enthusiastic responses from both the children and their families, as well as the supportive hospital communities.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- Children in hospitals often face environments that can be intimidating and isolating, impacting their emotional and psychological well-being.
- The actions
- Benjamin Lloyd provides non-toxic, temporary tattoos to hospitalized children, allowing them to express themselves and feel more confident.
- Evidence of progress
- The initiative has sustained nearly a decade, with widespread positive feedback from children, families, and hospital staff, as well as significant social media engagement.
- What we can learn
- Art can serve as a powerful tool for emotional healing and empowerment, and similar initiatives can be adopted in other healthcare settings to enhance patient experiences.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 9
- Engagement
- 8
- Relationships
- 9
- Meaning
- 10
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Kindness
Many in the comments note what a gift Lloyd is giving simply from the kindness of his own heart.
Courage
Lloyd's initiative began with a simple idea posted on social media, which required him to follow through on a large promise.
Hope
In a hospital full of needles, he gives kids tattoos that don’t hurt. They heal.
Try this today
Reflect on a personal challenge you have faced and consider how creative expression might have helped you. Try drawing or writing about it, focusing on how this process shifts your perspective or emotions.