Tribal Tattoos

Statistically, tribal tattoos are so popular they make up nearly one third of all tattoos being worn today. One can only imagine all the myriad reasons a person would choose to get a tribal tattoo on his or her body. These tattoos are so diverse that the symbolism can reach to almost every corner of the imagination. Whether for purely aesthetic reasons or for some personal association, tribal tattoos are by far some of the most popular tattoos around.

Within the classic tribal system, the main reasons to get a tattoo were generally to mark a stage in a tribe member’s life: marriage, rite of passage, or discovery of a totem animal (the magical being that is spiritually associated with the individual). Tribal tattoos can also mark a family name, somewhat like a seal or tartan in other societies. This trend can be seen in modern society through gang tattoos, or more subtly, tattoos that are shared among friends, family, or between partners. It is possible to trace some family lineages through complex and beautiful tattoo designed that are wore on the face or other parts of the body. Many tribal tattoos are simply given when a girl or boy reaches puberty, a tradition that holds true today as many teenagers get a tattoo in and around their eighteenth birthday. In many tribes, tattoos were given to mark a person’s special talents or characteristics.

Tribal images range from Native American, which typically symbolize ritualistic beliefs, spirits and nature, to the traditions of the Polynesian tribes, which tend towards depicting morals, legends, and religious values. Hawaiian tribal symbols, which are extraordinarily popular, often identify a specific person, or can be worn as protection or for mourning purposes. The Maori of New Zealand wear tattoos that evoke courage and are distinguished by their complex curves and shapes.

Animals are of course a common theme in tribal tattoos. The bear, for instance, stands for good nature or luck, while the butterfly can represent immortality. The mighty eagle symbolizes spiritual development, while a single feather brings creativity and rebirth.

The placement is also very important. The Maori are of course known for their facial tattoos, which would be quite a commitment in Western society. It is much more common to see designs inked onto legs, ankles, shoulder blades, lower backs, upper backs and other more discrete places.

It is most common to do a tribal tattoo in simple, heavy black lines, which can be hard to do so choose your tattoo artist well.

Whatever the reason you choose to get a tribal tattoo, be sure to look within your self and muster up what it is you truly identify with, be it a group, an animal, a certain value or religious symbol, or even an original design. Tribal tattoos can be a powerful way to show your alliance to something greater than yourself.