American Traditional tattoos, with their bold black lines and saturated colors, are one of the most recognizable and iconic tattoo styles, said to date back to the 19th century. However, American Traditional tattoos peaked in popularity in the 60s, initiated by Norman Collins, globally known as Sailor Jerry, who opened a tattoo shop in Honolulu, Hawaii, after sailing the seas of Southeast Asia. While there are many American Traditional tattoo artists, he was one of the pioneers who created this wave of popularity.
Sailor Jerry
Sailor Jerry was influenced by his travels and began studying Japanese-style tattooing. He reportedly trained under Gib Thomas, who resided in Chicago, and was known as a genius in the tattoo world. While under the tutelage of this legendary tattoo master, he developed his unique style and imagery, which remains highly famous today and can be seen on flash sheets in tattoo studios worldwide.
Its simplicity allowed for quick and efficient tattooing of many clients, and due to the tattoo inks available at the time, the color palette was also quite simple. These colors are typically very bright, richly pigmented, and primarily include primary colors such as red, yellow, and blue, known for their saturation, which makes them long-lasting with less fading.
In addition to its vibrant, saturated colors and bold, thick linework, what gives American Traditional its iconic and timeless imagery is the tattooed artwork, which differs from recent "tattoo trends."
These images tend to appear and disappear over the years. In the mid to late 90s, tribal tattoos became very popular in America, especially among men. Large, bold linework covering wide areas of the body was dominant, and many still prefer this type of artwork today. Just like in fashion, what was popular in the past often gains renewed attention in a new era, and the same can be said for the tattoo industry.
American Traditional Designs
Similarly, American traditional tattoos feature timeless, classic images that, no matter how many times they are inked, never feel outdated. When you think of American Traditional, you probably envision something like the following:
Bald Eagle: A symbol of America, a proud and patriotic national emblem, the soaring bald eagle is a fierce yet graceful image.
Anchor: A symbol of stability and steadfastness, the anchor is a very popular image, often tattooed with the name of a loved one who "keeps you grounded."
Swallow: Often tattooed in pairs as a symbol for sailors returning home from the sea to their families and friends. Just as swallows always return to their nest, sailors always return to land. It is often associated with romantic gestures, but is also said to be a symbol of superstition.
Skull: A tattoo often seen on the most fearless adventurers, as a reminder and acknowledgment that death is inevitable and should be embraced.
Ship: Ships are symbols of freedom and adventure, and a natural choice for sailors. A ship is a symbol of freedom and adventure, and a second home for sailors.
Heart: Non-anatomical hearts, usually in prominent bright red, often feature a banner with a loved one's name (MOM is popular), signifying the family sailors leave behind at home and look forward to seeing upon their return. This is a symbol of love, desire, and devotion, and a beautiful, lifelong design.
American Traditional tattoos are among the most well-known tattoos. If you are internationally minded or have a strong admiration for America, why not consider getting one of these tattoos?
Reference
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