Traditional VS Neotraditional Tattoos?
Traditional VS Neotraditional Tattoos?
Traditional and neo-traditional tattoos are both American tattoo styles that are characterized by bold lines, bright colors, and stylized imagery. However, there are some key differences between the two styles.
Traditional tattoos are rooted in the work of early American tattoo artists, such as Sailor Jerry and Bert Grimm. They typically feature simple designs with limited color palettes, such as red, yellow, green, and blue. Traditional tattoos often depict nautical imagery, such as ships, anchors, and mermaids, as well as animals, flowers, and pin-up girls.
Traditional Tattoos
Bold, thick black outlines
Solid colors, typically red, yellow, green, and black
2-dimensional designs
Simple, cartoonish subject matter
Often inspired by American sailor tattoos
Neo-traditional tattoos emerged in the 1990s as a more modern interpretation of traditional tattooing. They often feature more complex designs with a wider range of colors, including black, white, and gray. Neo-traditional tattoos can depict a wider variety of subjects than traditional tattoos, such as fantasy creatures, landscapes, and pop culture icons.
Neotraditional Tattoos
Similar to traditional tattoos, but with more complex designs
Brighter, more saturated colors
3-dimensional shading
More detailed subject matter, including animals, plants, people, and pop culture icons
Often inspired by Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles
Here are some of the most popular subjects for traditional and neotraditional tattoos:
Traditional tattoos
Sailor jellies
Pinup girls
Skulls
Daggers
Roses
Ships
Anchors
Hearts
Eagles
Neotraditional tattoos
Animals
Plants
People
Pop culture icons
Surreal imagery
Dreamlike landscapes
Abstract designs
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between traditional and neo-traditional tattoos:
Size and placement: Traditional tattoos are often small and can be placed in a variety of areas, such as the arms, legs, and chest. Neo-traditional tattoos can be larger and may require more space, such as the back, shoulders, or thighs.
Cost: Traditional tattoos are typically less expensive than neo-traditional tattoos. This is because traditional tattoos use simpler designs and fewer colors.
Time to heal: Traditional tattoos typically heal faster than neo-traditional tattoos. This is because traditional tattoos have bolder lines and less shading.
If you are considering getting a tattoo, it is important to do your research and find an artist who specializes in the style that you want. A good artist will be able to help you design a tattoo that is both beautiful and meaningful to you.
- The Crew at EST