Images of shamans play a role in tattoo artwork emphasizing Native American motifs. The shaman was the spiritual leader and usually also the primary healer for a group. Shamans are not restricted to North America, and were present in many cultures throughout the world. Oftentimes, shamans effected their cures and exercised their powers on a different plane of consciousness, to which they had to travel, braving dangerous and sometimes malevolent forces or beings. Their work was linked to the supernatural, although the supernatural was understood by many peoples to be part of the world and everyday existence. As a group, shamans stood near the apex of their societies and yet somewhat outside, both courted and feared for their talents. Tattoos of shamans show them in their ritual regalia, with headdresses and perhaps various other objects of power.