On the contemporary scene, when we speak of “classic Traditional,” we are referring to the American Traditional tattoo style. Its roots lie in the past, yet it remains more alive today than ever before.
Unlike many other styles that have evolved over time, the strength of American Traditional lies precisely in its ability to stay true to itself, preserving the essential characteristics that define it.
The black outline must be thick and well-defined, while the colors are bold, vivid, and mainly primary colors like red, blue, green, and yellow. The colors are flat, without shading or gradients, and the designs are simple, with clear shapes and minimal details.
Most of the motifs in this style are iconic symbols that carry unique meanings, rooted in the graphic execution of the first tattoo artists who created them. These symbols include anchors, hearts, skulls, roses, eagles, and snakes.
They also feature women in cocktail glasses, writings and mottos, as well as felines, predatory animals, cupids, devils, and generally small, impactful images. These designs had to be executed quickly by the tattoo artist, giving them all the power and visibility necessary to make a lasting memory on the skin.
IS THIS THE GENRE FOR YOU?
You can find great inspiration in our digital library Tattooebooks.com. Find your favourite style, by choosing from the categories where the ebooks, created by the big international names in tattooing, are divided.
