Recommended Artists for American Traditional Tattoos: Alex, Kaitlin
American Traditional tattoos have been very popular for many years. This style is generally what most people picture when they think of “tattoo art”. Often found on the walls of many shops around the country, traditional flash art has helped create what is now a large industry of artists able to share their work permanently. These days the classic designs are still used, but they have been largely expanded on as well, using new pigments and having more artists to really push this style forward while still respecting the traditions.
Traditional American style tattoos started in the 1930’s and symbolized rejection of the American dream and were shown to have counter-culture meanings. Traditional tattoos have been known to use bold clean black lines, a classic color palette, and minimal shading. This style was influenced by more modern Japanese art and are commonly noted in tattoo history as a driving force to make tattoos acceptable in the culture.
Considerations before getting an American Traditional tattoo
- Color Pallet – black and grey – traditional red, green, and yellow – or a modern expanded color pallet
- Placement of the Tattoo – will the tattoo fit the area properly?
- Meaningful or art? – some tattoos have meaning and some will just be art
- Updated classic design or a fully custom design?
