Tattoos are an art form

More and more adults are getting tattoos. You see them on just about everyone these days and, the more popular they are the more elaborate and artistic they have become. There are tattoo artists all over the world, who people seek out specifically to get tattoos. Many of these tattoo professionals are highly talented artists. There are several tattoo styles which are popular among people seeking a tattoo. Tattooing has been a part of human culture for thousands of years. Evidence of it can be found dating all the way back to the ancient people of the Aztec, Mayan and Japanese culture. Almost every culture in the world has some type of link or cultural evidence relating to tattoo art.

Ancient icons

Images common to Greek mythology including mythological creatures and elements of architecture reflecting strength are found in the category of ancient icons. Mostly these tattoos are commonly inked in black with strong lines.

Traditional American

Commonly related to what sailors would have had done prior to 1970. Typically, tattoos will be seahorses, anchors and hearts with “Mom” emblazoned across them. This style is considered retro nowadays.

Asian

There is a huge variety of images and characters associated with Asian tattoos. Japanese letters in solid black are very popular, as are sleeves. Also, some tattoos include Japanese Koi, dragons and, even, lanterns. These tattoos are often bold and noticeable.

Tribal

These are very popular as sleeves and usually reflect images found in ancient Aztec culture and American Indian culture.

Photorealistic

As tattoo artists become more practiced and expert at inking all kinds of images, the reality achieved in these images are as highly detailed and matched only by photographs.

There are five categories of tattoos which are recognized by professional dermatological associations.

Traumatic

This is where the skin is marked in some way as a result of an injury. Skinned knees and brush burns from a fall are the most common of the traumatic tattoo.

Amateur

These tattoos are commonly associated with gang rituals where people tattoo themselves using crude methods like pins to cut into the skin to make a mark.

Professional

This is any tattoo which is applied professionally by a professional tattoo artist. These tattoos can be very elaborate and colorful and are recognized as pieces of art.

Cosmetic

This is the type of tattoo commonly used by women as permanent makeup. The most common tattoos in this category are permanent eyebrow lining, eyeliner and lip liner.

Medical

This tattoo is applied prior to having a procedure. Commonly, these tattoos are used as a marker, particularly for people going through radiation treatment.

There are many different types and styles of tattoos. If you are considering getting a tattoo, do your research and find a professional who will be able to create and ink what you want.