In the vibrant world of tattoos, the Old School style is a tribute to tradition and history. As an experienced tattoo artist with nearly a decade in the industry, I am deeply fascinated by this authentic classic, which has deep roots in America's 19th and 20th centuries. Old School tattoos gained popularity among sailors, soldiers, and adventurous souls who wore their life stories and symbols on their skin to express their identity, belonging, and personal experiences.
The History of Tattoos
Tattoos have a history that stretches back thousands of years. In 1991, a 5,000-year-old frozen body was discovered adorned with 57 tattoos, providing evidence of their timelessness. Tattoos have held various meanings in different cultures, from religious rituals to status symbols. In Hawaii, they were even used for protection against diseases until missionaries banned them.
In Western societies, it took a long time for tattoos to gain acceptance. In the 18th century, sailors began getting tattoos as souvenirs from their travels to distant destinations like Japan, China, and the Pacific Islands. Tattoos were primarily worn by individuals outside of societal conventions, such as sailors, itinerant laborers, and circus performers. Soldiers also started using tattoos to display their military affiliations and achievements.
During World War II, tattoos experienced explosive popularity, especially thanks to Sailor Jerry, who introduced a new style to the world of tattoos. After the war, tattoos came to symbolize resistance to societal norms. Today, tattoos serve as a powerful means to express a wide range of emotions and viewpoints.
The Old School Style: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Despite its deep historical roots, the Old School style has managed to remain relevant in the modern world of tattoos. Numerous artists have taken the timeless elements of this style and given them a modern twist, resulting in a fusion of tradition and innovation. Contemporary adaptations often integrate pop culture references and personal symbols into the classic motifs, creating unique and personalized expressions within the framework of Old School design. With this style, virtually anything can be visualized, and only the imagination sets limits.
Motifs in Old School Tattoos
The Old School style is distinguished by its characteristic features: clear outlines, a limited color palette, simple shading, and iconic motifs. Anchors, hearts, roses, swallows, ships, women, skulls, and panthers represent just a fraction of the symbols that encapsulate the essence of this aesthetic. Each motif carries a deep meaning, speaking to courage, love, freedom, and adventure.
These motifs have their origins in so-called 'flash cards,' which played a crucial role in the development of the style. Flash cards were the primary means of presenting tattoo designs in tattoo studios, where customers could choose a design from the wall or a folder.
But where does the term 'flash' come from? A story I've heard is that tattoo artists once needed to be discreet, especially in a time when tattoos were illegal (tattoos were illegal in New York City until 1997). This required artists to be able to pack up quickly and disappear like a flash.
Today, the definition of flash design has become more diverse and doesn't necessarily need to have a traditional meaning or be executed in the old-school tattoo style. [I have a wide range of flash designs ready to be tattooed - see all my flash designs here.
The Significance of Different Designs in Old School Tattoos
The long history of Old School tattoos and their influence from flash cards has often given these various motifs clearly defined meanings. Here is a list of some of the most popular motifs within Old School and their respective symbolism:
Anchor Tattoo: Symbolizes stability and reliability, inspired by its role as the most dependable object in a sailor's life.
Heart Tattoo: Often with a banner that reads "mom" or a loved one's name, symbolizing love.
Ship Tattoo: Represents adventure and its central role in a sailor's life.
Skull and Skull Tattoos: Popular among warriors and those facing danger in their daily lives, symbolizing a lifestyle marked by bravery.
Star Tattoo: Nautical stars, especially the North Star, were used for navigation and symbolize staying on the right course.
Pin-Up Tattoo: Pin-up motifs symbolize casual sensuality and were often hung as pictures in workshops, hence the name "Pin-Up."
Lighthouse Tattoo: Symbolizes protection from dangers and staying on the right course.
Lucky 13: The number 13 and other unlucky elements were used as symbols of resistance to superstition or as a sign of challenging it.
Maintaining Your Old School Tattoo After
the tattooing process, it is crucial to follow my advice on cleaning, moisturizing, and protection to preserve the quality and color vibrancy of your tattoo. Special protection against UV rays is essential, as prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade. Learn more about tattoo maintenance here.
Conclusion
Old School tattoos remain timeless due to their deep historical roots and their ability to adapt to modern emotions. Whether you prefer classic symbols or innovative interpretations, you'll find a connection to the Old School tattoo style. Tattoos serve as enduring markers of identity and self-expression, and by embracing this tradition, you can proudly wear your Old School tattoo and contribute to the continuation of a timeless art form.
If you've been inspired by the beauty and depth of Old School tattoos and are considering getting your own timeless artwork, don't hesitate to contact me. As an experienced tattoo artist with a passion for the Old School style and nearly a decade of experience in the industry, I'm here to turn your ideas into beautiful, personal tattoos.