Tribal is a tattoo style based on abstract, flat shapes in solid black. The name comes from the word "tribe" and refers to the traditional tattoos of Indigenous cultures, for example in Polynesia or Borneo.
Tradition versus modern tribal
Traditional designs had specific meanings: they spoke of origin, status or passing an important stage of life. The tribal that was popular in the 1990s mostly borrowed their form: sharp, flowing black shapes. Modern work is usually inspired by the aesthetic rather than tied to a specific culture. When choosing a motif with a traditional background, check its meaning.
What does tribal look like today?
Tribal is making a comeback, often in a new form: with sharper geometry, ornament or combined with blackwork. Large black areas need even saturation and careful healing. A well-planned design emphasises the lines of the muscles.
Tribal is also a popular base for a cover-up of older, dark tattoos. We explain how to plan a design with a lot of black in Blackwork: planning a large tattoo.