6 Reasons Why People Decide to Get a Tattoo Meaning

Tattoos are extremely popular at the moment with people of all ages choosing to get various types of tattoos done on different parts of their body. If you've never got a tattoo done yourself, you're probably wondering why people choose to get a tattoo done at all. Well listed below are 6 main reasons why people decide to get a tattoo.

1. Celebrities.

In recent years a number of very high-profile celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Penelope Cruz, Christina Aguilera, David Beckham and Brad Pitt have all got tattoos done and showed them off in public. This has resulted in a bit of a fashion craze for tattoos and is one reason why so many people are now choosing to get tattoos done.

2. Artistic.

There are so many highly skilled tattoo artists around nowadays which means that they are more than able to create tattoo designs of the very highest quality. A lot of people are therefore drawn by the fact that they can get incredible tattoo designs done that look both beautiful and artistic. They can even create their own complex custom tattoo design if they so wish.

3. Heritage.

More and more people are becoming interested in ancestry and finding out more about their family history. As a result of this they will often celebrate and proudly display their family roots via a prominent tattoo on their body. This could be through a Celtic tribal tattoo, for example, or another family-specific tribal tattoo.

4. Loved Ones.

Many people, both male and female, like to display their love of their marital partner by getting a tattoo done which proudly demonstrates their love of that person. Because tattoos are permanent it is a great way of displaying your eternal love for your partner.

5. Memorials.

In this age of world conflict memorial tattoos are now very popular amongst the friends and family of soldiers who have lost their lives fighting for their country. These tattoos, often in the shape of a cross or tombstone, act as a permanent reminder of the departed loved one.

6. Religion.

Tattoos are popular amongst a wide range of different religious groups, but are particularly popular amongst Christians with the cross tattoo being an extremely popular choice of design. These tattoos act as a great way to visually convey your religious beliefs and values to other people.

Maori Tattoo Art and Traditional Maori Tattoos Meaning

Maori tattoo art and traditional Maori tattoos are so incredibly unique; these particular traditional maori tattoos have their own identity and meaning among the Polynesian culture. Maori is a tribe that came from Polynesia to New Zealand. The word Maori is defined in the dictionary as to be "ordinary", "natural" or of the "normal". These Maori tattoos are anything but normal or ordinary. In fact, they hold such meaning and tradition that it is thought among the Maori people to be insulting to have a Maori tribal tattoo of this nature, outside of the Maori families or tribes.

Maori tattoo art is beautiful, bold and painful! The Maori tattoos consist of multiple designs placed over the entire body. They are beautiful shapes, symbols and dark, distinct patterns. Fabulous spirals are among the most common seen. Most Maori people will place these beautiful designs on their face, buttocks and legs. In the Maori language, these beautiful tattoos are called "Ta Moko" in the Maori tribe, which means to strike or tap. Traditional Maori tattoos are carved into the skin with a small chisel instead of punctured into the skin by a needle like we see now.

The Maori men generally have these designs tattooed over their entire body. The Maori women generally are tattooed on the lips, chin, back and neck. The tattoo is done with a chisel made of bone or animal tusk and takes hours, even years to complete. Today when someone has a tattoo like this done, it can take up to a year to complete.

Interestingly enough, the tattoo ink comes from a common vegetable substance and the other portion is from the caterpillar. The black tattoo ink that is commonly used for the face is made of wood that is heavily burned. Maori tattoo art usually will start around adolescence for the boys, and is used to celebrate a milestone event or series of events throughout their life, representing childhood into their adulthood.

Maori tattoo art and Maori traditional tattoos is still very much a common practice and gaining greater popularity in New Zealand today and many celebrities have adorned themselves these tattoos.

Star Tattoo Meaning - Finding Ideas For a Simple Design

While trying to come up with a star tattoo design, your creative thoughts can go wild. The creativity and potential designs of such a down-to-earth object can increase into an awesome work of art. So where do we start when trying to find new ideas for a star tattoo? Acquiring ideas can be found reading books, the constellations or looking at photos of other star tattoos can help influence ideas for your own design. Using patterns such as animal prints inside a star is an alternative idea you can think about using. It can enhance the look and style of a star that is just plainly outlined.

The star tattoo is not just a simple design as it appears. It has a deeper meaning and symbolizes many aspects of life. There are also many different variations and styles. Points of a star can determine the meaning behind them. The nautical star for instance, has been around for ages and was commonly used as a symbol for protection and guidance home. Some other designs can have religious or spiritual influences attached to them such as The Star of David. They can also have several different meanings depending on which one you choose.

Some popular designs of star tattoos and their meanings could include:

1. Shooting Stars - success and good luck
2. Flaming Star - rising up to stardom
3. Nautical Star - symbolizes guidance
4. The Star of David - rule of god and protection
5. Pentagram Star - protection against evil

Incorporating star tattoos with the moon is another idea that is becoming popular, as these represent the beautiful night sky. These are commonly tattooed on the shoulder or upper back but can be very versatile. Stars with trailing stardust is known as shooting stars. These tattoo designs are a favorite amongst women in particular. They can be brightly colored or plain black to fit ones personal preference. Customizing your own star tattoo is the best way to achieve a unique design and knowing for yourself that it is a one of a kind.

Star tattoo designs are growing in momentum amid the fresh and younger population of women. Girls are likely mesmerized by the star designs of the nautical, rainbow decorated stars and the shooting stars. Stars declare a variety of meanings to them, but the the majority and common basis why stars are being inked is the attraction of its beautiful designs. With that being said, star tattoos have grown to be one of the most popular tattoos sought after by many. Even the famous celebrities of Hollywood have inked their body with this straightforward tattoo design. With the celebrities flashing their star tats a lot of individuals are following their lead in getting a star tattoo.

The placement on the body has endless possibilities. For women, the design can be placed on their lower stomach, hips, lower back and other spots of the body. For men, they look great on their shoulders, chest and arms. Blending stars into other designs such as hearts, flowers, waves, a name in script, or existing tattoos can be easily done. It will have a tremendous impact and accent the design even more. The overall outcome will have a very pleasing affect that will be very appealing to the eye.

In spite of what you pick out, star tattoos are phenomenal and a lenient simple design designated for both men and women. The purpose involving any tattoo, is to satisfy your own interventions whether it be the significant meaning or the overall visual aspect of the tattoo. There are literally hundreds of designs available, coming up with your own design is more preferable.

Tribal Tattoo Art Meaning

Tribal tattoo art is becoming more prominent every day. These unique designs which have a symbolic meaning for many tribes are worn today for decorative body art. Tribal tattooing began many years ago with countless traditional tribes. These tribes had tattoos for many reasons including spiritual, to identify families and clans, marriage, rites of passage, as totem animal guardians and for love spells and charms. Below is a few of the popular tribes that we admire and wear their style of tattooing.

* Polynesian - There are many different styles of Polynesian tattooing such as Maori, Hawaiian, Samoan, Tahitian and Marquesan. Every island has its own style but the similar characteristics of them all are the bold black abstracts and figurative designs. Some popular Polynesian symbols include the shark, turtle, dolphin, manta ray, gecko and tiki. The meanings of these tattoos include traditions, tribal ancestors, tribe rituals, legends, proverbs, mythologies, social and religious values.

* Maori - Traditional Maori tattoos are known as Ta moko and they consist of bold intricate patterns in distinctive curved shapes and spirals. The meanings of these tribal tattoos would celebrate important events throughout life and represent strength, courage and status. They depict nature as movements of rhythmic and cyclic patterns.

* Hawaiian - These tattoos have been around for thousands of years and are usually very large and bold geometric designs. Some common shapes and symbols used are fish, birds, turtles, sharks, waves, rain and the sun. Hawaiian tattoos have meanings such as tribe membership, celebration, self expression and some are done simply for adornment.

* Native American - Tattoos for the Native American people have more of a spiritual significance and represent a connection with the earth. Popular tattoos are animal tattoos such as the eagle which carries a great religious significance. The wolf is also a sacred tattoo design that is a symbol of loyalty and success. Some more Native American animal tattoos are: bears, coyotes, horses, owls, fox, deer, turtle and frogs. Another favored design is the kokopelli which is regarded as a symbol of fertility. Other Native American tattoos are designs that depict elements of nature such as fire, wind and water.

Tribal tattoo art is not only decorative and unique, but it represents the symbolism of traditional tribes and their cultures. These tattoos have been proudly worn for many years and they continue to grow in popularity every day.

Looking For Butterfly Tattoos

Getting inked with tattoos is a very popular tradition these days. People from all walks of life, be it a common man or woman or a celebrity, all are attracted to the world of tattoos. There are an unlimited number of tattoo designs available all over the world. So, if you are new to the world of tattoos the most popular design seems to be the Butterfly Tattoo. They are especially popular with women because they are a symbol of femininity.

Butterfly Tattoos have different meanings in different parts of the world but in every country they are a symbol of something good. In several countries they are the symbol of love and beauty. In Greek mythology, butterflies are considered as a symbol of the voyage of life. In Mexico, butterflies are symbolized as goddesses. In other countries butterflies are the symbol of wealth or elegance or delicacy. So, you can get yourself inked for all these reasons.

Whatever your choice of meaning, the Butterfly Tattoo must be inked with utmost care given to specific design and location. There are several different body parts where you can get yourself inked. Some of the favorite locations are the lower back, the feet and wrist but there really is no limit to location.

The lower back area is currently the most popular place. There is enough space available there to place an elegant and delicate Tattoo. Here, you can get yourself inked with either a small or rather large tattoo, whatever your needs may be. You can get a Butterfly Tattoo in fusion with a tribal tattoo. This looks really cool and sexy.

Another popular place available for getting inked is your feet. Here, the tattoos can be hidden or shown depending on the occasion or your mood of the day. There is a wide range of options available for placing these tattoos on your feet. You can go for a small design or for a huge one which covers the whole foot. It is totally a personal choice.

Some people prefer to get the tattoo on their wrists. The wrist is a perfect place, especially if you want a small tattoo. On wrists Butterfly Tattoos can be inked in fusion with Celtic Designs to give it a more delicate and adorable look. On wrists, don't try different colors as black color gives the most elegant look.

Another place on the body which is very popular to get a tattoo is the shoulder. Other than the feet, here also you can also hide the tattoo according to your need. It looks best when Butterfly Tattoos are in combination with Flower Tattoos.

So there you have a brief summary of the spirit and meaning of Butterfly Tattoos in various parts of the world as well as the most popular locations. Now, if it's decision time for you, you should consider the design and location carefully. Many designs are available. Since the Butterfly Tattoo is such a symbol of delicacy and elegancy they should be inked with great care. For this, seek the help of a professional artist only.

All About Angel Tattoos

The Angel is a spiritual being created by God. The word angel comes from a Greek word meaning "messenger" or "one who is sent." Angles have been depicted throughout history as God's messengers and soldiers. They delivered His word and carried out His punishments upon mankind.

History

Angels also serve as the guardians of individuals and nations. The world's three biggest religions (Christianity, Judaism, and Islam) mention Angels throughout their holy texts. The Angels are viewed as the link between Heaven and Earth and believed to be a gift from God for our safety, protection and guidance.

In many ways, the Angels are depicted as winged creatures hovering over the earth to provide protection against evil elements against mankind.

Guardian Angels

Guardian angels are believed to be the protectors of humanity in times of crisis. These guardian angels are often shown holding or watching over the children.

In fact, David Beckham, the England captain and star footballer (soccer player) said in his recent autobiography, about the significance of his Angel tattoo on his upper back, "I like the feeling that my sons are with me even when I'm away from home. And not just in my heart. I had their names tattooed on my back after each one was born. There's a guardian angel there, too, looking after them both."

Archangels

The Archangels are the seven Angels that stood before God in the Revelations. These Angels are the closest to God in the heavenly order. The Archangels are the divine messengers between the humans and God. They are the battlers of the Sons of Darkness. The most famous of the seven Archangels is Michael. Michael is believed to have led the battle against Lucifer (another Archangel) in the great rebellion. Michael is usually depicted in body armor, holding a large sword, with wings out swept in readiness.

Cherubs

Cherubs are the bringer of love. A good example is Cupid uses his bow and arrow to shoot through the hearts of unwarned people which makes them fall in love with one another. This is why an arrow through the heart usually accompanies these angel tattoos. Frequently, the name of a loved one is also added to the Cupid tattoo.

Fallen Angels

Fallen angels are symbolic of the epic battle between God and Lucifer, symbolizing a fall from Grace. Believers in the Judeo-Christian theology say that when Lucifer and his army of the dark angels were defeated and thrown out of Heaven, these angels were said to have fallen into the burning depth of the earth.

The typical fallen Angel tattoo usually pictured as a menacing looking angel, with a bloody sword in his hand. Other fallen angels are depicted with torn or injured wings, or even with horns. These angel tattoos frequently use a darker, heavier ink to make the design seem more foreboding. Fallen angels are popular with Goths and bikers in particular, as well as those who are devotees of Satan and the dark arts.

Popularity

Angel tattoos are among the most popular tattoo designs for men and women alike. Angel tattoos are attractive because they represent peace, beauty, good sense, exemplary morals, and spirituality.

An angel tattoo on a woman signifies that she looks inward towards her soul to find her purest sense of self. She is divine and often patient, and her presence is a gift. She protects herself but also others, and finds that sometimes beauty lies in confidence. And the wearer of the angel tattoo has the belief she does not settle for something less and goes where she is needed

For a man, an angel tattoo can be symbolic of many things. Men who wear angel tattoos are often very fond of women. They often choose a sexy angel to represent their masculinity. These men choose angel tattoos to announce that they have an woman who is the Angel in their life. It is a popular choice for men who feel strongly about a particular woman, though that is not always the case. Most commonly worn on true bad boys and cowboys, the men who have them will swear by these tattoos, saying that they help them pick up women.

Celebrities

* Drew Barrymore is tattooed with her own personal gallery of body art. One of her tattoo is an Angel.

* Alyssa Milano from the T.V. Series, "Charmed," has a tattoo with Angels in her designs.
* Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit has several different tattoo images including an Angel.
* Amy Wesson, a supermodel has an Angel tattoo on her lower back

Angel tattoos are thought to reflect the wearer's personal relationship with God, whether it is solid or estranged, so be sure to choose your design with care!

Becky McClure believes that the most important word after you make the decision to get inked is “Patience!” Pick the right tattoo design. Pick the right location on you. And pick the best artist you can find for your new body art.

Bow Tattoo Meanings

The bow tattoo is becoming a popular feminine inked choice. The design, size, colors and locations are being chosen to reflect a variety of personal meanings, depending on where they are being inked. This style is being creatively designed to reflect the meaning or location on the body. Bows have been used culturally in many ways to visually express a sediment or meaning or practicality. Bows often have a feminine flavor of representation, perhaps one of the reasons why they are being chosen for inking.

The traditional dictionary explanation is that a bow is formed by using a cloth or string, tied in a way that has curved parts on either side with two loose ends. A classic visual example of this is looking at shoe laces after they have been tied. Women have worn bows in their hair both as a decoration and often in securing or tying their hair.

To the gift giver, often a bow is one way of fancying up the presentation and used as a visual acknowledgment to the receiver, that it is a present. A now common visual symbol of a gift.

Bows have been used to represent as a reminder to not leave the past behind, as in the saying "Forget me knot".

Often yellow ribbons are tied around trees with a big bow, to display a representation that family & friends are waiting and honoring a return of a loved one, from a journey or war.

They are sometimes used to symbolize an accomplishment in life and how it could become untied through circumstances and fragility.

In the clothing fashion industry bows have been used in many different styles from the head to the toe. Some styles incorporate a physical bow and others have used a bow printed material. The classic mens' formal wear is often represented with a bow tie.

Sometimes cartoon characters are represented with a bow placement, to visually represent that the character is female.

Bow ribbons are often worn or displayed. A pink ribbon for example is known to symbolize or represent a fight against breast cancer. It can be a visual expression of supporting family or friends in a overcoming breast cancer. Or sadly represent a loss of a family member or loved one to breast cancer.

Bow tattoos designs from loud to delicate have been used on the body to represent jewelery on toes and fingers. On the back of legs, where the old style garter clips would have been located, some women are choosing to have a bow inked. Others have chosen to have a ribbon wrapping around their ankle tied in a bow inked.

Feminine twists are being designed that incorporates a bow on traditional skull, cross & bones and designs that were more originally masculine.

Perhaps the appeal of bow tattoos, to the one choosing to have it inked on their body, is the variety and versatility of possible meanings it could have or represent for them, with a feminine creative twist.