Maori Tattoos

Traditionally tattoo is used by Maori as a method of individual identification showing a persons heritage. They consist of curved spiral shapes in intricate patterns. A common theme amongst patterns is the shape of the "Koru" which is linked to the New Zealand fern. The young fern leaf unfurls and at this stage it is named "Koru". To the Maori the "Koru" represents the unfolding of new life or renewal. When you see the "Koru" you will see why the Maori have identified the unfurling frond with values of youth, strength and vitality, life unfolding, the Whanau (family) its care and protection.

Traditional Maori designs will generally include sacred symbols. Be aware Maori tattoo patterns symbolize a way of personal identification for the Maori people. Maori see it as stealing part of an identity when traditional tattoo designs are copied for the sake of a trend or fashion.

Maori have traditionally worn the tattoo on their face which was to show everyone who they were i.e. their family, tribe and status within an area grouping. Elaborate shapes and marks were used that showed the heritage of the particular to the wearer.

Maori tattoo designs are becoming extremely popular all over the world. It is disrespectful to get traditional Maori designs without thinking through the cultural sensitivities. These sacred tattoo designs are not simply for ornamental purposes.

Go out and get your Maori tattoo designed without the symbolic ties. If you are considering Maori tattoo designs you should find an experienced artist who knows about Maori culture and get them to design you a Maori tattoo that has the look of a moko (tattoo design) without the symbolic ties. Personalize your own design by incorporating celtic, tribal and Maori styles into your own absolutely unique piece. Mixed race people like to represent their heritage from both side and this can be achieved really effectively with a combination of two styles.

Tiger Tattoos

Tiger tattoos, along with dragon tattoos and other mammals and creatures, are excellent and popular ideas for those intending to acquire tattoos. It is also popular among tattoo designers and tattoo artists. Tiger tattoos are popular in modern times for various reasons.

For many individuals contemplating on getting tattoos, they would only go on to get tattoos that have a special meaning to them. Tattoos, in all reality are very personal and can help bring out the character and personality of the person. Since the dawn of time, there have been tens of thousands of tats portraying images and designs of tigers in different manner and perspective.

Among the various reasons tiger tats are popular is due to its symbol of wisdom, courage, strength, beauty and for being fierce. Tigers have long been portrayed both in the east and west. Due to this, there are many different images of tigers that have been tattooed. Today, with the modern tattooing technology, tiger tattoos are able to be tattooed as life-like as possible, making it one of the more popular tats for new as well as seasoned tattoo enthusiasts. As an example, 3D tiger tattoos is among one of the most popular choice of tats due to its striking resemblance to that of a real tiger coupled with the skill and experience of the tattoo artist at hand.

Tiger tats are mostly tattooed over large areas of the body. The body, in essence, acts as a large canvas for the tattoo artist to create his/her masterpiece. For that matter, tattoos portraying tigers are best tattooed in areas such as the back, front, hands, thighs and the likes. These tats will look good when tattooed as big as possibly could. Having mentioned that, there are also those who prefer to have tigers tattooed small. These small tiger tats include those that are tattooed in areas such as the upper arm, wrist or ankle for instance.

Tiger tattoos are not restricted to men only. Although tigers are often thought to be be tattooed by men, they are also favored by women. One can do almost no harm with a good tiger tattooed on most parts of the body. However, having mentioned this, it also largely depends on the tattoo design in itself as well as the ink and skill/experience of the tattoo artist involved.

Among the different available tiger tattoos that one can choose from include Chinese Zodiac Tiger (Year of the Tiger) tattoos, 3D tigers, black and white tigers or color tigers among others. The main issue when it comes to to these tattoos is the process of making a decision on the design in itself. This problem applies to both the newbies as well as those who are experienced in the world and art of tattooing.