Tattoos, as an art form, have continuously evolved over the years. From the traditional tribal tattoos of ancient times to the modern, avant-garde designs of today, the history of tattooing is both rich and complex. One tattoo style that has gained immense popularity in recent years is neo-traditional tattooing. Neo-traditional tattooing is a modern take on the traditional American style of tattooing that has become immensely popular in recent years. It combines elements from both old school American tattoos as well as new-age art forms, resulting in one of the most unique and eye-catching styles of tattooing available today. Our artists at Reef Side Tattoo specialize in this type of tattoo design. Blending the old-school techniques with modern aesthetics, this form of tattooing has managed to carve a niche for itself in the world of tattoo art.
The Origin Of Neo-Traditional Tattooing
The origins of neo-traditional tattooing can be traced back to the 1970s. Tattoo artists at the time started to borrow elements of traditional tattooing such as bold black lines and classic designs and reinterpreted them with brighter colors, photorealism, and other modern tattooing techniques. Borrowing from elements of Japanese Irezumi tattoos, these artists started brewing a new style. Some say that Ed Hardy was the first person to combine traditional techniques with new age designs. Other artists like Gill Montie, Freddy Corbin, and Mike Giant added their own flair of creativity and innovated the style as well. This style was popular during World War II amongst soldiers who wanted a reminder of their service when they returned home.
However, neo-traditional tattoos are much more modern and incorporate more elements of contemporary art styles into the tattoos. Fine lines, intricate shading, and vibrant colors are all used to create a tattoo that is unique and stands out from traditional American tattoos. This has made neo-traditional tattooing incredibly popular amongst both experienced and novice tattoo aficionados.
The Process Of Getting A Neo-Traditional Tattoo
Getting a neo-traditional tattoo is similar to getting any other kind of tattoo. First, you must find a reputable and experienced artist who specializes in neo-traditional tattoos. You then need to decide on a design that you like and discuss it with your artist to make sure it is feasible. Once the design has been approved, the artist will create stencils of the design and transfer them onto your skin as a guide for the tattoo. After this, the artist will begin the process of inking your skin using a variety of different techniques, such as shading and color blending.
What is Neo-Traditional Tattooing?
Neo-traditional tattooing is a modernized style of traditional American tattoos that has become increasingly popular in recent years. As the name suggests, this new style of tattoo takes elements from both traditional American and contemporary art styles to create something that is unique and eye-catching. Neo-traditional tattoos often feature bold lines, fine details, vibrant colors, and intricate shading to create beautiful and intricate designs.
Why is Neo-Traditional Tattooing Popular?
Neo-traditional tattoos are popular because they offer people a chance to express themselves in a unique and creative way. Unlike traditional American style tattoos, which often feature bold outlines and ‘blocky’ imagery, these tattoos often feature bold lines, intricate details, vibrant colors, and shading techniques that can add a lot of depth to the design. This style also allows for more freedom when it comes to personal expression, as there is no set “rulebook” to follow when creating a neo-traditional tattoo. This makes it possible for people to create tattoos that are truly unique and one-of-a-kind. This style of tattooing also allows for more intricate and detailed shading, which can add a lot of depth to the design.
Different Styles of Neo-Traditional Tattooing
Neo-traditional tattooing is incredibly versatile, and can be adapted to suit any style. It can incorporate elements from Americana, art nouveau, Japanese art styles, graffiti or comic art, allowing for a wide range of designs. This versatility means that anyone can find a design that fits their own individual style and expresses what they want it to say.Neo-traditional tattooing spans across various design styles and cultural influences. Examples of these styles include:
- American Traditional: This style features Americana-based designs such as eagles, flags, and pin-up girls, among others. This style is often characterized by bold, black outlines, and a limited color palette.
- New School: This style incorporates bold colors, exaggerated perspectives, and distorted shapes. The designs are often playful, cartoonish, and fantastical.
- Japanese: The Japanese neo-traditional style, also known as new wave or neo-Japanese, draws inspiration from traditional Japanese tattoo art. This style features intricate designs like koi fish, dragons and other mythological creatures.
- Black Work: This style features solid black ink dominantly in the designs. The designs can be graphic and somewhat abstract.
For those looking for something more unique, neo-traditional tattoos can also feature elements of graffiti or comic art. These designs often feature bright colors and abstract imagery, creating a fun and unique tattoo that stands out from the crowd.
The Process of Getting a Neo-Traditional Tattoo
Getting a neo-traditional tattoo is similar to getting any other kind of tattoo. First, you must find an experienced artist who specializes in this style of tattooing and discuss the design with them to make sure it is feasible. Schedule a consultation with one of our talented artists at Reef Side Tattoo to discuss design ideas, styles, placement, and overall expectations. The artist will then create stencils of the design and transfer them onto your skin as a guide for the tattoo. After this, they can begin the process of inking your skin with a variety of techniques, such as shading and color blending. Once the tattoo is complete, it is important to continue to take care of the tattoo.
Tips for Neo-Traditional Tattoos
Like any other type of tattoo, it is important to properly care for a neo-traditional tattoo during the healing process. This includes keeping it clean and applying a topical ointment or cream to keep it moisturized. Our professionals at Reef Side Tattoo recommend you use DermaShield. However, Aquaphor or any other unscented lotion will work, too. It is also important to protect your tattoo from the sun by wearing sunscreen when going outside. Additionally, limits any strenuous activities or contact with rough surfaces until the tattoo has healed completely. Following these steps will help ensure that your neo-traditional tattoo looks its best for many years to come.
Other Popular Styles of Tattoos
Neo-traditional tattoos are just one of many popular styles of tattoos. Other popular styles include realistic, watercolor, blackwork, and traditional American. These different styles all have their own unique characteristics and appeal to a variety of people for different reasons. It is important to do research on the various tattoo styles before settling on one to make sure it is the right style for you. With so many options, there is sure to be a style that fits your individual needs and tastes.
Reef Side Tattoo
Neo-traditional tattoos are a great way to express yourself and add some unique flair to your body art. They combine elements from traditional American style tattoos and modern art styles to create something that is truly unique and eye-catching. With so many options for style and design, anyone can find a neo-traditional tattoo that fits their own individual taste. With the proper care and attention, these tattoos can last for years to come. A lot of our artists at Reef Side Tattoo specialize in Neo-Traditional tattooing. Come to our shop for a consultation and to check out some of our work. Our team of professionals will take care of you from start to finish!