Maori tattoos were introduced by the people of Eastern Polynesia and were etched onto the skin as a sign of status back when tribes were still prominent. People nowadays don’t really get Maori tattoos based on their history, but more so because of their unique detailing that makes no two pieces the same.
Many tattoo designs come and go in terms of popularity, but Maori tattoos go back many years and are still as popular today as they were back in 1769.
Day of the Dead is a Mexican festivity that celebrates passed loved ones and death without fear or sadness. These tattoos usually include images of La Catrina, a beautiful woman in the makeup of sugar skulls, representing death. They can also include cheerful, decorated skulls or skeletons.
Heartbeat tattoos represent life, either by celebrating your vitality or remembering loved ones. They can also depict two entities that are connected, like siblings, best friends or couples. Most heartbeat tattoos are small, but you can innovate and make them bigger in size.
Sisters often get matching tattoos as a symbol of their special connection. Some choose matching designs and get the exact same ink. Others go half and half, using an incomplete image that the other sister perfects and concludes.
All of the designs portray your deep links with one another. They can also symbolize resistance, support or the personal differences that make both of you unique in your eternal bond.
We’ve gathered some of the best and most creative ideas for you to plan your tattoo with your sibling.
The traditional Japanese koi fish tattoo has many meanings, from prosperity to love and resilience. There are many ways to include koi in your tattoo. You can go from simple black and grey ink to colorful designs. Adding color to your koi fish adds to its symbolism. Other traditional Japanese elements, from demons to lotus flowers, will help you make the tattoo truly yours.
Geometric tattoos are both simple yet mesmerizing, as artists draw inspiration from ancient geometry and its meaning.
There’s a lot of freedom in design when it comes to geometric tattoos—you can choose different shapes and sizes to create intriguing pieces. Should you choose a geometric tattoo next time you’re getting inked?
Dragons have been part of myths for centuries, but Asian and European cultures view them differently. Chinese dragons are well-meaning deities, while Western cultures see them as terrible foes. Depending on the meaning and size you want for your tattoo, you can place them on all parts of your body.
Polynesian tattoos have become popular in recent years, and it’s not hard to understand why. They make their wearer look like a warrior, but they also carry deep symbolism of nature. The connection between humans and their environment is an important element in Polynesian tattoos.
What leads many people to get a Polynesian tattoo is that they’re simple but profound. Their meanings focus on the natural surroundings and tradition, which makes them adaptable to people from different cultures.
Roses are among the most popular designs for tattoos, but they’re very versatile. They symbolize life, love and beauty, but their basic meaning can be modified with other elements. Roses can be adapted to all traditional styles, from Chinese to Mexican or American, as well as geometric forms.
Roses are popular objects not only in tattoos, but also in art, poetry and music, from Shakespeare to Guns N’ Roses. That doesn’t mean they have to be boring.
There’s something so alluring about dragonflies. Watching them dance over the water’s surface and gracefully glide through the air is a magical experience. Cherished by cultures around the world, the dragonfly is animal-rich in meaning.
Because of all that they symbolize, tattoos of dragonflies have become incredibly popular. Ink in all styles, from watercolor to photorealism, are great choices for anyone seeking an elegant, meaningful design.
Here’s a quick look at the meanings behind dragonfly tattoos and the most popular designs.