Tuesday, February 14, 2012

The Truth Behind Gangsta Style Tattoos

Modern, bold and unique...these characteristics have changed people's perception of gangsta style tattoos. Formerly known as symbolisms of violence, deceit and trouble, anyone sporting these emblems were once feared, discriminated and avoided. As tattooing establishes its place in the world of the arts, interest in all tattoo styles including gangsta style tattoos has increased as well.
As a result, stereotypes crumble, giving way to better understanding and appreciation of tattoo styles that were once considered taboos. Today, even people who have no affiliations with any mafia groups or gangs find these inked identifications as perfect representations of their aspirations and past experiences. Truly, gangster tattoos have evolved into a fine piece of art.
Gangsta style tattoos originally served as an identification system between members of a gang. Having said that, it is not surprising to find names, numbers, and special codes featured in gangster tattoo designs. Discretion is a protocol among gangsters and thus, creativity is channeled to efforts to conceal any personal info. Numbers are prominent features in many gangsta style tattoos. These numbers often represent significant dates the individual's life. Typically, these numbers are written in Roman numeral form but other font styles are used as well.
Although individuality and creativity is highly encouraged in designing tattoos, there are still elements that distinguish each tattoo style. For gangsta style tattoos, teardrops and graffiti serve as trademarks or defining features of the tattoo style. The teardrops represent mourning for the death of a significant person - who may be a family member, gang co-member, friend, or a lover, who has been murdered. The graffiti is the art style commonly used in letterings of names and words. Sometimes the words are written in foreign languages. Spider webs, clowns, gravestones are some of the symbols also incorporated in the designs. Other images common in gangster tattoos depict significant activities of the group.
Getting gangster-themed tattoos for the sake of riding the fad or for the sake of looking tough is a big mistake. Sometimes, people with these types of tattoos get into a lot of trouble, often because; they are mistaken for someone else or are accused of being posers. Indeed, gangster tattoos are more than just mere body embellishments. The concept of brotherhood, feeling a sense of belonging, these are few of the connotations of the tattoo. The personal experiences incorporated in these tattoos add depth and meaning to this work of art.

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