Understanding different tattoo styles can help you decide what kind of tattoo you want to get and which artist can best execute your vision. Here are some of the most popular tattoo styles explained in detail:
1. Traditional (American):
Traditional, or “old school,” tattoos are characterized by bold lines, solid colors, and iconic imagery such as roses, skulls, hearts, and anchors. This style was popularized by tattoo artists like Sailor Jerry during the mid-20th century.
2. Neo-Traditional:
Neo-traditional tattoos take the bold lines and classic symbols of traditional tattoos and add a modern twist, with more detail, color blending, and a broader range of themes.
3. Realism:
Realism tattoos aim to replicate real-life images as accurately as possible, almost like a photograph. They can be color or black and gray, and popular subjects include portraits, animals, and nature scenes.
4. Watercolor:
Watercolor tattoos mimic the look of watercolor paintings, with soft edges, vibrant colors, and often a lack of black outlining. They can be delicate and artistic, though some worry about how they will age over time due to the lighter use of ink.
5. Japanese (Irezumi):
Traditional Japanese tattoos are rich in symbolism and often cover large areas of the body. Common themes include dragons, koi fish, lotus flowers, and scenes from Japanese mythology.
6. Tribal:
Tribal tattoos are inspired by indigenous and ancient art from cultures around the world. They often feature black lines, geometric patterns, and symbolic imagery.
7. New School:
New school tattoos are cartoonish and exaggerated, with bright colors and bold lines. They often feature pop culture references, and the subjects can range from characters to animals.
8. Blackwork:
Blackwork tattoos are characterized by large areas of solid black ink. This style can range from geometric designs to more illustrative scenes.
9. Dotwork:
Dotwork tattoos are made up of tiny dots, similar to pointillism in art. This style is often used with geometric, mandala, or spiritual designs.
10. Biomechanical:
Biomechanical tattoos aim to create the illusion of robotic or alien machinery under the skin. They’re often done in a realistic style and can be quite detailed and complex.
Remember, the best tattoo style is the one that resonates with you personally and fits the aesthetic you desire. Always research different styles and artists before getting a tattoo to ensure you get a design you’ll love.