Shark Tattoos

Shark tattoos have long been seen as the artistic expression of bravery, and an emblem for protection. The predatory nature of the shark makes it the perfect symbol for fortitude and a toughness of spirit. Many sailors wore shark tattoos to show their fearlessness towards the often menacing temper of the sea. This general emotion, alongside the sleek body and intimidating appearance that these creatures are known for, make this tattoo a unique and interesting piece.

When considering shark tattoos, it is interesting to know the varieties of shark available for your use. Two of the most favored are the great white (known for its enormous size and voracious appetite), and the hammerhead shark (not as commonly known for any particular viciousness, it is popular mainly due to its otherworldly, almost alien-like appearance). Although you may choose to use these very recognizable types, you may also go for a more unfamiliar variety of shark. One good example of this is the cookiecutter shark (also known as the cigar, or luminous shark). This creature, like the hammerhead, seems almost supernatural, and would make for a very different piece of art. They are relatively small in size, sport green pupils, a perfectly rounded and prominent lower jaw with sharp teeth, and an underbelly that glows with a blue and green luminescence.

Shark tattoos are not regularly seen by themselves, but are often placed with other undersea life, and a vast array of nautical themes. A shark chasing a small fish, using its large bite to free itself from the arms of an octopus, or prowling around the sides of a ship are all frequently displayed images. Shark tattoos may also depict some of the vast mythology that they carry. You could easily use the Australian aborigine’s myth of Bangudja (half man, half tiger shark) in battle with the dolphin man, leaving the rocks of the Gulf of Carpentaria red. You may also try a depiction of the myth from the indigenous people of Solomon; Dakuwanga, a shark god, was said to devour lost souls. This depiction could show translucent human figures swimming in a dark ocean, whilst being stalked by a large, impressive shark. One more example would be that of Lamia (a Greek daimon whose name means ‘lone shark’) floating in the sea, carrying her child Akheilos (or, ‘the Lipless One’, who was said to be transformed into a shark by Aphrodite).

Techniques of Tattoo Body Art

Japanese Technique

Samoan Technique

Japanese Technique

Western Technique

Ancient Thai Technique

The tattoo art is thousands of years old. In fact, man has been indulging in the body art since the prehistoric times. Today, each and every region of the world has its own tattooing technique. Most of these techniques have evolved over a long period of time, adapting to the diverse climatic conditions, cultures and ethos in each region. Though the techniques of tattooing differ in different parts of the world, the end result remains the same - formation of designs and marks on the body. In case you want to explore the main techniques of tattooing in the world, the following information will come handy.

Techniques of Tattoo Body Art

Western Technique
In the western countries, an electric machine is used for the purpose of tattooing. The machine was invented in England and patented in the late 1800s. However, till date, it has undergone a few changes only, with the basics remaining the same. In the western technique, a solid needle, placed in a metal tube dipped into a cup of ink, is moved up and down a body part. A foot pedal is used to control the on and off positions of the machine. While only one needle is needed to make the outline of the intended design, coloring and shading requires groups of needles, arranged into even numbered flat configurations.

Japanese Technique
Japan has its individual style of tattoo making, which has been, to a certain extent, derived from the traditional methods. A hand-based style of tattooing, the Japanese technique makes use of elaborate bamboo handles. The handles incorporate a bunch of needles within themselves and work in a way much similar to a hand-powered tattoo machine. While making the tattoo, the artist stretches the skin with one hand and making use of his spread fingers, dips the brush into black ink.

Samoan Technique
Yet another tattoo technique that is related to the Pacific culture comprises of the Samoan one. In this tattoo technique, wooden hand tools are made use of. The tattoo artists works with the help of two basic tools, namely a bone-tipped rake and a striking stick. The rake is dipped in ink and placed against the skin. Thereafter, it is struck with the stick, resulting in the puncturing of the skin. As the artist moves the rake, a pattern is formed on the skin. In this method, a group of assistants help keep the skin taut, while the artist forms the designs.

Ancient Thai Technique
The tool that is used for making tattoo, as per the ancient Thai technique, is quite similar to the one used by the westerners. The tattooing tool comprises of a long brass tube, along with a sliding pointed rod that runs down the centre of the rube. The artist makes use one of his hands to steady the skin of the client, while the other is used to dip the tool in ink and pierce the skin with it, just like the needle of a sewing machine. The ancient Thai tattoos revolve around Buddhism and have religious symbols as the main designs.