Gothic tattoos are a relatively new classification of tattoo designs that can incorporate a variety of different things. Prevalent only the last 30 or 40 years, gothic tattoos represent the Gothic culture and “Goth look” of those who choose to get them. One common misconception about gothic tattoos is that they all have to be focused on death or darkness. While that is one type of gothic tattoo, there are much more varied forms and designs.
Often, individuals who choose to live a Gothic lifestyle are artistic, creative, intelligent and consider themselves unique from the pack or herd. Gothic tattoo designs reflect these traits and beliefs. Here are some of the common types of Gothic tattoos.
Wicca and other mystical themes
Gothic tattoos often celebrate these underground beliefs, religions and practices. Common designs include pentagrams (5-pointed stars), designs that include the 4 elements (earth, water, air and fire) and other symbols, traditions and representations of occult and Wicca rituals.
Having a Gothic tattoo that includes such imagery does not necessarily mean the individual believes in witchcraft or other forms of magic or dark religion. Rather it is often a celebration of the unique and underground. Additionally, some Gothic tattoos will show a traditional religious symbol such as a cross upside down, to inverse its meaning or representation.
Darkness and death As mentioned above, gothic tattoos include a wide range of designs beyond those of the stereotypical death and darkness themes. However, those are still a classification of Gothic tattoos. Symbols such as black roses or grim reapers could be classified as Gothic tattoos by some people. Other images incorporating blood or violence could also be considered Gothic tattoos. Fantasy, mythological and medieval These are some of the most common Gothic tattoos in today’s Gothic culture. These often include brightly colored mythological or fantasy creatures, including dragons, fairies and unicorns. Symbols and artistry depicted medieval times and culture are also common, including castles, knights, medieval weaponry and so on.
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