Aquatica Monthly: September 24’ - Understanding Tattoo Styles

Welcome to AQUATICA MONTHLY.

A monthly insight into the ongoings at AQUATICA TATTOO.

Join us each month as we dive into tattoo related topics, share information about our upcoming Guest Artist roster, feature our favourite tattoos as of late, keep you updated on booking availabilities and much more!

Monthly Topic - Understanding Tattoo styles: A beginners guide to tattoo genres

Each issue of AQUATICA MONTHLY we will be diving into a new tattoo related topic in an effort to share more information around the world of tattooing.

This month we’ve picked some of the most popular tattoo styles, giving a brief breakdown into the key features of each.

Tattoos are a powerful form of self-expression and the myriad styles available today offer endless possibilities for personalisation. This month we delve into some of the various tattoo styles, from the timeless elegance of traditional designs to the intricate details of modern artistry. Whether you're a seasoned ink enthusiast or a curious newcomer, understanding these styles can help you choose the perfect tattoo that reflects your unique identity.

  1. American Traditional
    Characterised by bold lines, bright colours, and iconic imagery like roses, skulls, and anchors. Traditional tattoos often feature a limited colour palette and are known for their timeless, classic look.

  2. Neo-Traditional
    An evolution of the American traditional style, neo-traditional tattoos incorporate more complex shading, a wider range of colours, and a greater emphasis on detail and depth. This style often includes modern interpretations of classic motifs.

  3. Realism
    Aiming for photographic accuracy, realism tattoos focus on lifelike depictions of people, animals, and objects. This style requires skilled artists who excel in shading and detail to create realistic and three-dimensional effects.

  4. Geometric
    Geometric tattoos use shapes, lines, and patterns to create abstract or symmetrical designs. This style emphasises precision and can range from simple patterns to complex compositions incorporating sacred geometry.

  5. Tribal
    Featuring bold black lines and intricate patterns, tribal tattoos often draw inspiration from traditional Polynesian, Maori, and other indigenous art forms. They are known for their emphasis on sharp, symmetrical designs and cultural significance.

  6. Japanese (Irezumi)
    Traditional Japanese tattoos are rich in symbolism and often feature motifs like koi fish, dragons, and cherry blossoms. They are characterised by their large, colourful designs and intricate details that cover substantial areas of the body.

  7. Black-work
    Blackwork tattoos use only black ink to create solid, filled-in designs, patterns, or large areas of shading. This style can range from minimalist line work to elaborate, highly detailed black patterns.

  8. Illustrative
    Combining elements of drawing and tattooing, illustrative tattoos often resemble detailed illustrations or sketches. They can feature various themes, from fantastical creatures to stylised portraits, and are known for their artistic, storybook quality.

  9. Dot-work
    Dot-work tattoos use small dots to build up shading and intricate patterns. This style creates a textured effect and often features mandalas, geometric designs, or detailed imagery with a unique visual texture.

  10. Fine-line / Line-work
    Fine line tattoos are characterised by their delicate, thin lines and minimal shading. This style often features detailed, intricate designs that maintain a clean, elegant look, making it ideal for detailed work and subtle designs.

  11. Black and Grey
    Black and grey tattoos utilise varying shades of black and grey ink to create depth and contrast. This style is versatile, allowing for realistic, classic, or abstract designs without the use of colour.

  12. Anime
    Anime tattoo style features vibrant, detailed designs that capture the distinct, exaggerated characteristics of anime characters and scenes. Often incorporating bold lines and bright colours, this style emphasises the dynamic and expressive elements typical of anime art.

  13. Bio-mechanical
    Bio-mechanical tattoos blend organic and mechanical elements to create designs that resemble machinery integrated with the body. This style often features intricate, futuristic designs with a high level of detail and a 3D effect.

  14. Lettering/Script
    Lettering tattoos focus on text and typography, from elaborate script to clean, modern fonts. This style often incorporates meaningful quotes, names, or phrases and can be customised to reflect personal significance.

  15. Ornamental
    Ornamental tattooing is a style characterised by intricate, decorative patterns that often draw from traditional motifs and geometric designs, creating a visually striking and elaborate appearance. It frequently features symmetrical elements and detailed line work, resulting in a tattoo that resembles ornate artwork or jewellery.


Made to Suit - @Lozzarachtattooer

The Made To Suit Art Exhibition started an exciting collaboration between some of the Gold Coast’s finest tattoo artists. This exhibition showcases the unique artistic talents and individual styles of 45 tattoo artists as they each create a full body-suit on a life size canvas. This exhibit is an annual event and we invite tattoo artists from all over the country.

Our very own Loz is participating in the exhibition this year.

SHOP PRINTS HERE


Fin George DROP. 2

The AQUATICA TATTOO Artist Series is a program designed to showcase the talent of local artists in collaboration with our studio. It empowers artists to shape our brand and exhibit their unique styles.

Fin George is a 25 year old ceramicist living in Tugun on the Gold Coast. He has been exploring clay and sculpting as a medium for the last 3-4 years.

We have a selection of Fin George’s pots available in our store. Each is handmade and handpainted by Fin.

SHOP HERE

Artist Series VOl. 4: Mental Ben

The AQUATICA TATTOO Artist Series is a program designed to showcase the talent of local artists in collaboration with our studio. It empowers artists to shape our brand and exhibit their unique styles.

Ben Brown's roots run deep in the vibrant coastal town of Manly, where he witnessed the flourishing scenes of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Immersed in the thriving surf, skate, and punk rock culture of his upbringing, Ben's artistic journey is a fusion of these influences.

Ben's work is known for its vivid colours and bold designs, which exude energy and liveliness. While it can occasionally push boundaries and challenge norms with its confrontational nature, the overall vibe remains playful and enjoyable.

A legend in the dynamic illustration universe, Ben Brown's exceptional portfolio has significantly influenced surf, skate, snow, music, and film scenes on a global scale.

With over thirty years of experience, his evolution as an artist mirrors his enduring love for music. Having been part of the local music scene, Ben holds a profound admiration for fellow passionate artists who continue to make a mark in their own unique style.

SHOP HERE


Upcoming Events

We are always excited to both participate and host events within the tattooing space.

Find all the all the details below on whats in store.

The Irongate Tattoo Convention

We are humbled to announce we will be attending

THE IRONGATE TATTOO CONVENTION

hosted by IRONTEMPER SUPPLIES!

The Iron Gate is Australia’s newest premier tattoo convention, set to be biggest display of both homegrown and international talent.

Being hosted at the Hordern Pavilion, Moore Park, Sydney this November the 1st - 3rd.

MORE INFORMATION HERE

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Aquatica Monthly: August 24’ - Tattooing… A Brief History