Tattoo Style Guide | Tattoo Artistry Designs

Artisan Ink

Style Guide

Traditional Tattoo Style

The traditional tattoo style, also known as old school, American traditional, classic, or Western traditional, is renowned for its bold outlines, vibrant colors, and iconic motifs such as roses, anchors, and striking female portraits. With influential figures like Sailor Jerry, Don Ed Hardy, Bert Grimm, and Lyle Tuttle shaping its history, this tattooing tradition remains a cherished and widely recognized aesthetic in the tattoo community.

Realism or Realistic Tattoo Style

While classic realism has long been a staple in fine art since the Renaissance, its integration into the world of tattoos emerged relatively recently, gaining prominence in the latter half of the 20th century. This evolving tattoo style has since grown in sophistication and widespread appeal, showcasing stunning color and black-and-grey portraits of celebrities, lifelike depictions of nature, and even surrealistic interpretations of diverse subjects.

Watercolor Tattoo Style

The watercolor style is currently trending, highly sought after by the latest generation of tattoo enthusiasts embracing modern tattoo trends for the new millennium. Emulating the fluidity of watercolors on paper or canvas, this technique is challenging to execute with tattoo ink on skin. Despite its complexities, artists create whimsical and poetic pieces that capture the essence of this innovative approach to tattoo artistry.

Tribal Tattoo Style

Tribal tattoos, rooted in indigenous body art, trace back thousands of years and encompass diverse traditions from aboriginal communities worldwide. While commonly grouped under the term “tribal,” each style, like Polynesian, Marquesan, Maori, or Inupiaq, bears distinct characteristics to the trained observer. Typically rendered in intricate black patterns, these tattoos showcase both uniqueness and cultural richness across different communities.

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New School Tattoo Style

Don’t let the name fool you; new school isn’t exactly new anymore. It gained popularity in the late ’80s and early ’90s, but has since declined in favor. This style, a product of its time, draws heavily from the animated aesthetics of popular entertainment from that era in American history. With its cartoonish and exaggerated figures, new school tattoos embody a quirky, vibrant spirit. If you appreciate body art infused with the essence of Ren and Stimpy, this comic style is perfect for you.

Neo Traditional Tattoo Style

As the name suggests, Neo Traditional is an evolution of the traditional tattoo style. It retains core elements like bold linework and vibrant colors but incorporates an illustrative quality. Influenced by Art Nouveau and Art Deco, Neo Traditional tattoos feature a broader color palette and a wider range of motifs. Known for lush, decorative details, this style often includes natural imagery such as florals and animals, adding an elegant touch to the classic aesthetic.

Japanese Tattoo Style

The traditional Japanese style, known as Irezumi, originated during the Edo period (1603-1868) alongside ukiyo-e, the woodblock prints popular among the merchant class. Icons from this body art genre are rooted in age-old folklore, featuring tattooed heroes from the Suikoden and mythological creatures like dragons, kirins, and phoenixes. Each tattoo in this style tells a story about Japan’s rich past, and beyond their dramatic smoke and wave-filled appearance, this narrative power makes Irezumi masterpieces so compelling.

Blackwork Tattoo Style

Stylistically speaking, blackwork is a broad term that applies to almost any body art created using solely black ink. This versatile and striking color allows for a wide range of designs. Blackwork artists’ portfolios feature everything from ancient sacred geometry to modern abstract ornamental designs to highly detailed illustrative pieces. It is undoubtedly the style where the most experimentation is currently occurring in the industry, and the work being produced today is absolutely mind-blowing.

Illustrative Tattoo Style

Illustrative tattoos encompass a wide range of work, inspired by various techniques and art movements. From etching and engraving to abstract expressionism and fine line calligraphy, this style is incredibly versatile. Many artists blend their own aesthetics with this style, creating unique designs. As long as the tattoos resemble art that could belong on paper or in a gallery, you know it’s Illustrative!

Chicano Tattoo Style

The Chicano style, rich in cultural influence, has impacted various other tattoo styles. Rooted in the Mexican Revolution, Los Angeles low-riders, and Pachuco culture, it originated behind bars, where artists used limited materials to capture what they cherished from the outside world. Typically fine line, black and grey, and deeply entwined with Chicano culture, this genre of tattooing is profoundly captivating.

Thai Traditional Style

Thai traditional style, deeply rooted in Thailand’s rich history and culture, is renowned for its distinctive and spiritual designs. Often inspired by Buddhist motifs, mythological creatures, and sacred geometry, these tattoos carry profound meanings and are believed to offer protection and blessings. Traditionally done by monks using bamboo rods, the style is characterized by intricate linework and symbolic elements. Today, Thai traditional tattoos continue to mesmerize with their intricate patterns and cultural significance, reflecting the enduring spiritual heritage of Thailand.