Just like hair, makeup, and even fashion, tattoo trends change throughout the years. While the '90s were all about tribal and barbed-wire inks, the 2000s brought on waves of lower back tattoos [1] and nautical-inspired stars [2]. Now with Instagram becoming an essential portfolio tool for artists to share their work, innovation is at an all-time high and many new tattoo styles are becoming popularised.
In 2019, there have been a bevy of styles you're probably already seeing everywhere. Watercolour tattoos [3], realistic, and pop culture-inspired tattoos [4] are trending and more artists are drawing inspiration from more traditional art forms and movements.
We've interviewed some of the country's best tattoo artists to get the lowdown on what's new and big in the land of ink. Check the trends out ahead.
Black and Gray Realism Tattoos
Realistic tattoos in shades of black and grey have been popular of the last few years and are likely going to continue to be a major trend. Mike Rubendall [5], founder of King's Avenue Tattoo, explains the practical reason for its popularity. "The biggest reason for this is because these types of tattoos are very relatable," said Rubendall.
"For instance, if a person is getting a Marilyn Monroe portrait you can immediately see if the tattoo is done well based on how closely the tattoo resembles that person."
Black and Gray Realism Tattoos
Extra Large Tattoos
As tattoos become more acceptable and popular with younger generations, the art is getting bigger and bolder. "Instead of starting out with a small sticker tattoo they are jumping right into full sleeves and back pieces for their first tattoo," explained Rubendall.
Pop Culture Tattoos
Regardless of style, pop culture tattoos are getting increasingly popular as clients choose Marvel super heroes, cartoon characters, and celebrities as their latest inks. According to tattoo website, Tattodoo [6], Mr. Rogers tattoos increased in popularity at the time of the 2018 documentary Won't You Be My Neighbour?
Pop Culture Tattoos
Another massively popular tattoo subject? Cartoon show Rick and Morty. The show has quite a few characters and according to Tattoodo, there are even entire blogs devoted to tattoos of the duo. "People love Rick and Morty because the show is unique," said tattoo artist David Peyote [7]. "It's different than the average cartoon family portrait and lots of youngsters can relate to it."
Watercolor Tattoos
Watercolour tattoos have been popular for a few years, but artists are now incorporating new features like tiny black lines and bold black outlines to create bold colourful tattoos.
Cubist Tattoos
Another cool emerging trend includes ink inspired by art movements, like cubism. Tattoo artist are recreating subject matter (like the fox featured here) as a cubist piece.
Fine-Art Inspired Tattoos
In addition to recreating famous fine-art pieces like paintings by Van Gough and Monet, tattoo artists are taking inspiration from those artists to create their own art. Ami James, Miami Ink star and co-founder of Tattoodo, is pleased with the new emerging trend. "The exciting thing about tattooing today is that many artists are working hard on innovating and creating new styles and motifs," he said.
Fine-Art Inspired Tattoos