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Locations and Designs
Fairies can be inked on the body in a variety of ways depending on how the wearer wants to execute it on the body. One of the most famous kinds of tat theme for this creature is from the collections of Amy Brown, an American artist whose amazing drawings of fairies made her popular. They are usually the intricate and large types of fairy tattoo designs that are best rendered on huge areas of the body such as the back, side, rib cage, shoulder, sleeve and thigh.

Cute fairy tattoos are the fun and naughty ones, most famous of which is Tinkerbell from the children’s classic, Peter Pan. She is classified as a pixie who appears small, pale and youthful with red hair, turned-up nose and pointed ears. Wearing a tiny red garments, she is a favorite tat design because she symbolizes the youthful and childhood days. She can also represent the carefree and flirty side of a female. If tattooed in a miniature scale, best body locations would be the lower stomach, foot, arm, lower back and ankle.

Fairies can also be combined with other design elements to make them an even fascinating piece of tattoo art. Some of the most popular ones are flowers, stars and butterflies which add more magic and fantasy to the whole theme. They can also be inked in Celtic or as an angel and fairy combined in one. Some have them appeared on the skin as a scantily clad (and even naked) pin up fairy girl tattoo.

Kinds of Fairies
Fairies are diminutive and enchanting creatures that has a long tradition found in myths and legends through Europe and the Middle East. They resembled tiny humans and are viewed as beautiful and enchanting. They can either be bad or kind to humans. They can have tricky and unreliable character that they sometimes bring magical mischief to any mortals. At times, they can also have benign approach and genuine offer to give rewards to the poor and unfortunate like money.

Fairies can be divided into two groups namely Trooping Fairiess, the ones with the communities, kingdoms and monarchies and the Solitary Fairies who do not belong in any group and just exist as individuals. The Trooping Fairies can be human size and also can be very tiny. They are always dressed elegantly like monarchs and royals usually in colors of green, blue and gold with their flimsy winds protruding from their backs. Their kingdoms and palaces are usually situated underground where they pursue activities similar to that of human beings like music and dance but with supernatural speed and quality.

There are also further divisions of fairies called the Seelie Court and the Unseelie Court. The former are those who are the peaceful and kind, engaging in their society and enjoying activities like hunting and feasting. The latter are the malignant spirits whose main purpose is to bring chaos and destruction to the human world. They generally are of ugly appearance and exist in the wild. Some of the most common characters that belong to the Unseelie Court who need no offense to assault the humans and prefer evil and harm are Boggars, Bogles, Abbylubbers, Buttery spirits and Boogies.

So if you are thinking of getting a fairy tattoo, choose first whether you are on the good or dark side.

Reference:
Carol Rose. Spirits, Fairies, Leprechauns and Goblins An Encyclopedia.1996. W. W. Norton & Company. New York.

Kicking it off is the group from DC comics. The first 2 share a Superman theme and both are particularly awesome because they take the classic superman figure, or symbol and turn it into something darker and unique. Superman Tattoo

Known as the “Man of Steel” who is “faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound”, this Superman tattoo wants to encompass it all. Superman Tattoo

Staying in the Superman story, we have this homage to one of the many incarnations of Supergirl. Based on a sketch by comic book artist Michael Turner, this simple outline uses black lines and a little color to create a striking image. Supergirl Tattoo

This next image is this daring depiction of the dark knight. As Superman’s colleague in the Justice League, Batman is the epitome of the enigmatic hero. Batman Leg Tattoo

Moving over to the other comic book giant, there are a bunch of killer images from the Marvel comic family. This one comes from the popular X-Men series. Though, not one of the most famous X-Men characters, Gambit is a hero with a dark side and the ability to use playing cards as a weapon. The way the cards are created gives the tattoo a real sense of motion and excitement. Gambit Tattoo

Next up from Marvel, is the iconic Spiderman. This particular rendition isn’t the likeness of Spider man but instead a creative and dynamic image of a Spiderman suit beneath the skin. This truly a unique and thrilling tattoo is full of action. Gambit Tattoo

The final entry from Marvel is the ultimate homeland hero, Captain America. This popular wartime comic character is still a portrait of patriotism. This tattoo gives the avenger a real sense of heading into battle. Captain America Tattoo

What happens when you combine one of the most famous movie characters with the ultimate video game icon? Jedi-Mario, that’s what. This hero tat integrates these two famed champions in a new fun way that creates a brand new kind of hero. Jedi Mario Tattoo

Up next is a tribute to a less well known video game hero, Mega Man X. The lead character of a popular Capcom game, X is a sentient robot and a protector of humans. Mega Man X Tattoo

The last installment is a tribute to one of the world’s favorite group of mutant reptiles, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This crime fighting team with the very long and explicit name originated in 1987, and still considered one of the best animated cartoon shows. This image captures the whole team in a classic pose. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Tattoo

Thinking of getting a tattoo? Who’s your hero?

This post was provided by Todd of New Look Houston,  a Houston tattoo removal,  clinic, and tattoo enthusiasts.

Our Recommended Gallery for Butterfly Tattoo Designs
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Butterfly tattoos are inked on the body in a myriad of ways. They can be executed on the skin with big bold details or they can simply be tattooed small and simple. Some choose to have them in realistic form while others choose tribal butterfly rendition. The best thing about this tat theme is that they are very versatile and flexible. When tattooed in miniature scale, they can usually be seen on the ankle, foot, lower stomach, lower back and arm. For those who prefer them larger, they can be seen tattooed on the shoulder, back, rib cage, chest and hip area. They can also be combined with other designs to make them even more artistically appealing. Favorites are flowers, stars, tribal lines, Celtic art, and almost anything that can compliment its great shape.

As interesting as they are as tattoo designs, butterflies as insect creatures are equally as wonderful as well. They go through four stages in their lives which are egg, larva, pupa and adult. The female butterfly lays more than 100 eggs but only two out of a hundred will hatch. Some of the eggs are eaten while others are destroyed by heavy rains, drought or wind. When they hatch, they become larva or caterpillars. Its main job then is to gobble up solid foods like leaves, flowers, stems and even other insects. Next, it becomes pupa wherein it undergoes a big change called metamorphosis. The pupa changes color as the adults develop inside it. When its ready to emerge, it pumps body fluid through the soft veins of its crumpled wings until they are fully expanded. When the wings are stiff enough to fly, out comes the beautiful and stunning butterfly that is ready to spread out its wonder in the world.

Aside from its attractive physical features, a butterfly is symbolical as well which is another one of its major characteristics that makes it a favorite tattoo design. Because of its metamorphosis from a sluggish caterpillar to an exquisite butterfly, it is regarded as a symbol of rebirth and resurrection.

As it rises from its chrysalis, it represents the soul leaving the body. For the Chinese and Japanese, it is a sign of both immortality and joy while for the Ancient Greeks, the butterfly represents the soul.For the female tat enthusiasts, butterfly tattoo designs are fitting representation of the change and transformation they go through in their life. It is a symbol of transition as well as joy, beauty and freedom.

1)When did you start tattooing? What inspired you to become a tattoo artist? I used to work in translation, but I always liked to draw and paint. By the end of 2006, I decided I wanted to do something different with my time, something closer to fine arts. I think the desire of tattooing came from the desire of getting new tattoos. In 2007 I did my first tattoo on my father with the help of my first teacher, Breno Reis.

2)How would you describe your style of tattooing? Is there a particular genre that you specialize in? I don’t like to follow a style. I prefer to do a little of everything, based on the client’s idea. This way, hopefully, it will be possible to keep learning new things every time.

3)Based on your experience, what is the latest tattoo trend nowadays? Is there a particular design or tat theme that people are mostly going for these days? It’s hard to identify trends when we are living them, especially because you can’t know what’s temporary and what will become permanent. Butterflies, for instance, are a recurring theme, but they exist in tattoo for so long that I don’t think they can be considered a trend. People also tend to like stars, names, flowers and Japanese themes.

4)Which body part/s would be your favorite spot to ink on and why? Based on the ease of doing, I prefer places like the back, on which you can tattoo without having to twist your body. Some places are not so easy to tattoo, but the result is so beautiful that it is worth the while, like the ribs.

5)What are your three most favorite tattoo works? Can you tell us something about them. I like a lot the portrait I did of myself on my father, who was my first client. The tattoo Porta-bandeira, which is an homage to someone who passed away. The third one is the Japanese cover-up. This one is special for me because it marked my first tattoo outside of Brazil. I went to London in January this year and worked with my new friends at Ouch! Tattoo & Piercing.

6) For those who are interested in working with you, where can they contact you? I’m Brazilian, from Rio de Janeiro. I work at a great shop called Banzai Tattoo. Our website is: www.banzaitattoo.com.br. I also have a website: www.sabrinaricci.com.br

1)When did you start tattooing? What inspired you to become a tattoo artist? Well, I was always into art and always loved tattoos; but what really got me into it was music. I used to be in a few touring bands and our drummer started tattooing and would bring all his equipment on tour and tattoo people all over. When I saw what he was doing, I figured I’d give it a shot.

2)How would you describe your style of tattooing? Is there a particular genre that you specialize in? I am really into traditional tattoos; bright bold and colorful. I like doing tattoos that look like tattoos. I guess I “specialize” in custom traditional.

3)Based on your experience, what is the latest tattoo trend nowadays? Is there a particular design or tat theme that people are mostly going for these days? Hm. Anything really. Mostly people are just bringing in anything offline they found. I guess a lot of lettering and gray wash seems to be popular too.

4)Which body part/s would be your favorite spot to ink on and why? Don’t really have any particular favorite. maybe the legs or the forearm since they are just the easiest to get to and work with.

5)What are your three most favorite tattoo works? Can you tell us something about them.I Don’t really have a favorite, really anything that is custom, big, fun and colorful is always my favorite.

6) For those who are interested in working with you, where can they contact you? I am currently working at Tribal Passage
1889 Rt 88
Brick, NJ
08724
732-458-8569
kirknilsen@gmail.com
www.kirknilsen.tk
www.kirknilsen.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/kirknilsen
www.flickr.com/photos/kirknilsen

Sample Cross Tattoo Designs From Our Tattoo Gallery
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The cross has many forms and variations. There is the St.Peter’s cross, also known as Inverted cross which represents his crucifixion which was done upside down. Constantine combines the first two letters for Christ in Greek while an anchor cross incorporates it with a crescent which is a symbol of Mary. There is also the Russian cross which has the inscription and puts the cross on a footrest.

Celtic cross tattoo is another very popular form of this type of tat theme. It is a symbol of the Irish which brings together the cross and the circle and has been around even before Christianity came into play. Originally, it was associated with fertility, the cross which symbolizes the male and the circle which is for the female. Within the Christian belief, it is a union of heaven and earth.

The ankh is prominent in the symbolism of ancient Egypt which carries the idea as the key to unlock the mysteries of heaven and earth. It is also a symbol of immortality and is often depicted as being carried by the gods. The rosy cross, or the cross with the rose flower in the middle has its early meanings linked with generative power. It is a connotation of the blood of Christ that spilled on the cross and the seven stages of initiation represented by the seven rows of seven petals that form the flower.

Aside from religious implications, cross symbols are also commonly used as in loving memory tattoos. Such kind of tat is sometimes referred to as rip tattoos which commemorate the death of a loved one; usually bearing the name of the person and death date.

Christian tattoos come in many variations as well. There is the Latin cross which is the plain kind also referred to as crux ordinaria. Though it is popularly linked to Christianity, it has long been a symbol of the pagans even before the religion started. There is also the crucifix which shows the image of Christ on the cross. This is the most powerful symbol of Christian devotion because it is a reminder that although Jesus died on the cross, he rose again and triumphed over death.

Another form of cross tat design is in the image of rosary tattoos. Its name originated from rose which is a symbol of Mary. It is the repetition of the prayer “Hail Mary” and the string of beads represent the count for each incantation.

Cross tattoo is one of the most versatile type of tat design. It is usually tattooed small, perhaps to retain its holiness and sanctity. It is commonly tattooed on the wrist, ankle, foot, arm and upper back. It is also very flexible with the fact that it can be freely combined with other elements such as flowers, heart, star, dagger, tribal art, dragons, angel wings etc.

With its strong meaning and lasting power, cross tattoo is definitely a tattoo design that will remain “holy” in the tattoo world for more years to come.

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Tattoo Designs for Women

Getting tattooed used to be for men only but nowadays, women are equal proponents of body art themselves. When it comes to choice of tattoo designs, it all depends on what they think is beautiful and appropriate for them. With the culture constantly changing, styles of tattooing also goes with the tide. However, no matter what the latest rendition is or where the hottest placement is, there will always be favorites. Here are some of them.

Flower Tattoos - generally a representation of beauty and charm, flowers have been a long time favorite tat image. With a wide array to choose from, the ones that stand out the most are cherry blossoms, rose, lily, lotus and Hawaiian flowers like hibiscus, plumeria and orchid.

Butterfly Tattoos - definitely a classic and all time favorite. Butterfly has natural beauty and artistic appeal, it is no wonder that women want it inked on their body. It represents change, transformation and new life which are all aspects in life that women can relate to.

Star Tattoos -a star is another well-favored image because of its simplicity and flexibility as a design. It is very versatile when it comes to placement and meaning;it will still look interesting and charming regardless.

Fairy Tattoos - are magical and fun that they seem to represent a playful and naughty side of a woman’s personality. They also symbolizes the unseen and supernatural forces on the earth.

Angel Tattoos - serve as protectors and guardians when inked on a woman’s body. They express one’s faith as they are look upon in most religions as divine messengers of God.

Sun and Moon Tattoos - signify the duality of life, that there are two opposing sides to everything. They symbolize the unification of the opposite to create one balance and perfect harmony.

Zodiac Sign Tattoos - are for those who are believers in astrology. They are associated with one’s birthday so they are definitely a representation of one’s inner self.

Dragonfly Tattoos - with their interesting colors and ability to fly seem to signify one’s carefree and cheerful side. Dragonfly can also many mean things positive such as renewal, change, good luck and swiftness.

Tattoo Designs for Men

When it comes to tattoo designs, men seem to be bolder as they prefer more intricate and detailed tattooing in terms of how they express themselves. Vivid colors, bigger sizes, visible placements and daring designs are what generally constitute tattoo designs for men. Here are some of the most popular ones for the male tat enthusiasts:

Koi Fish Tattoos - are artistically appealing with their beautiful shapes and brilliant colors. They are mostly favored because of the symbolical meaning attached to them which is generally the overcoming of obstacles and struggles in life.

Dragon Tattoos - are generally emblems of power, strength and good luck. These are qualities that men want to associate themselves with making this design a classic among them.

Tribal Tattoos - are reflection of the indigenous people from the tribes way back during the old times when tattooing was mainly for status symbol and part of rite of passage.

Kanji Tattoos - are symbols that seem to typify mystery and interest . The attractive strokes of Kanji characters seem to add a lot of charm and appeal.

Pin up Girl Tattoos - feature sexy and scantily clad ladies that are placed on a man’s body to show their love for women. It is part of the old school type of tattoos that became popular in the 1960s and ’70s.

Skull Tattoos - are those who are into hard core designs and scary side. They generally stand for death and can be symbol for one as being tough and strong.

Bird Tattoos - are generally positive creatures creatures that symbolize the connection between the heaven and earth. Men specifically like eagles, swallow, sparrow, dove, falcons, crows and the mythical phoenix as bird tattoo designs.

Celtic Tattoos - generally incorporate intricate weaving of line and knot works. Designs are mostly complicated so this should be inked by a skilled tattoo artist.

Bio Mechanical and Bio Organic Tattoos - are considered the hybrid style of tattooing which are brought about by the technological advances and modern changes in the society. They are a fusion of mechanical and organic matters and brought to life on the skin.

Japanese Tattoos - are one of the most sought after designs among men because of the interesting play of colors and details. Some of the most popular ones are cherry blossoms, koi fish, dragon, samurai and geisha.

Lettering tattoos have been called a lot of names- word tattoos, lettering tattoos, script tattoos, textual tattoos, quote tattoos and more. However you may want to refer to them, they all have one thing in common and that is they contain text and words that have significant meaning to the wearer. When it comes to locations of quote tattoos, men mostly favored their arms, rib cage, leg. Women, on the other hand go for their rib side and shoulder blades for quotations with several lines and prefer the wrist, foot and ankle for short quotes.

Here are collection of short quotes and meaningful sayings that we have gathered from the web written by some great poets and writers of our time.

Short Quotes for Tattoo:

Life is a choice.

Consciousness dissolves delusion.

Forgiveness heals instantly.

Thou Shall Not Surrender

Be not afraid.

Risk It All

No Regret.

Stay Classy.

Just Breathe.

Freedom is simplicity.

God is my shield.

Peace not drama.

Life Happens.

May The Force Be With You.

Be the change.

Doubt is thought.

Silence is healing.

So it Goes.

Live life to the fullest.

Calm your Expectations.

This too, shall pass.

We Will Succeed.

Be true to thyself.

Live Your Dreams.

Fallen Angel

I Have A Dream.

Awareness is life”

Look for good

Follow your own star.

Love conquers all.

Live Well, Love Much, Laugh Often.

Count Your Blessings.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Attitude is everything.

Believe in yourself.

Actions speak louder than words.

Experience is the best teacher.

Follow Your Dreams.

Laughter is the best medicine.

Strike while the iron is hot.

The first time the term was used by HR Giger as a Antropomorphic creature with a camera as his head.
It is simply the fusion of mechanical and organic parts used on Giger’s surrealist work and is considered by some to be an critique to the contemporary dependency of human beings to mechanical hardware.

His drawings from 1969 show the Atomkinder, or children of the atom, as bizarre mutations of a pos-apocaliptic world. In 1970 he created the biomechanoid as a the camera headed man, and in 1978 won the Oscar of visual effects with the Alien movie. Giger’s work is really a critique to post-modern human beings with everything that makes us sick, a chaotic pallete made of fecal matter, insects and machines. More on Giger’s biography can be seen on his official homepages.

This awesome world for sure has influenced a generation of artists and tattoo artists from all over the world. In the tattoo world the major names to be quoted are Guy Aitchison, Aaron Cain and Mike Cole. They adapted Giger’s work in a complete tattooable design pattern.

Aitchinson’s theory of flow and antiflow of design in the human anatomy, the 3DF8 form as a tattoo golden ratio along with the pure forms of the Biomechanical and Organic tattoo has no precedents. The major differences between organic and biomechanic is in the use of elements in each piece. If it has machine parts is a biomechanic, if it’s plant or animal-like it’s organic. Simple as that.

Bio Organic Tattoo
We interviewed our tattoo artist friend, Ben Reigle to share his knowledge about bio organic and bio mechanical tattoo.

As far as a definition for bio organic i would say that it is certainly a focus on abstract flowing designs, think the next evolution of a well executed proper tribal tattoo.

Bio Mechanical started it all, influenced by HR Giger some of the pioneers in the tattoo industry twisted a whole new genre of tattooing and I see Bio Organic as the evolution of fundamental ideas that were laid by and practiced by these pioneers. Bio Organic fits the rule of flow and fit to the body, to make the tattoo bend and warp with you as you move in a way that it looks like it was meant to be there.

It is not a focus on plant life solely, i would say that it is focused on anything organic. Bones, teeth, flesh and guts, insects, man i could go on forever, anything natural and organic can be made into an interesting texture for a tattoo. for personal reference i would suggest Nick Baxter, Carson Hill, Nathan Kostechko, Adrian Dominic and Guy Aitchison for a real idea of the school of tattooing i
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foto: cláudia f.
tattoo: baniz tattoo
hand: micael faccio

How long have you been a tattoo artist? I am a tattoo artist since 1997, my shop is located at Rua dos Ingleses, 649, second floor - São Paulo - SP - Brazil.  My customers contact me from internet, indications, and the people flow from the street.

Do you specialize in a certain type of tattoo design? I actually don´t like to specialize in any kind of design, but my artistic formation comes from comic books and formal art, I like to give a realistic touch to every design that is brought to me.

Based on your experience, what is the most popular theme or design that tat enthusiasts go for nowadays? Here in Brazil, actually the most famous design is the traditional old skool, along with oriental and polinesian.

Photos by Claudia F.

What is your favorite type of designs? My favourite tattoo designs are those who explore the post-renassaince tattoo techniques, like chiaroscuro, and gray washes.

If clients come to you and ask advice about tattoo designs for them, what do you usually tell them? When a client aproaches me i show him the possibilities about theme, and i use Photoshop to make a pre design composite with the references that the client brings me or we find together at my flash archives.I like to do a mix of freehand and reference work to make the design as customized as can be for the client.

For more works of Micael and his contact address, check out:

Micael Tattoo Studio
Micael Tattoos