Deciding to get a tattoo is no small decision. After all, it is something that will most probably last a lifetime. Some people do not give a second thought to what they have inked, others plan ahead. Some famous football players tattoo lots of symbols, religious or otherwise, on their body to have lady luck on their side.
But then there are those people who truly turn their bodies into a canvas and have some seriously beautiful, breath-taking and interesting tattoos that will make you take a second and say ‘wow!’.
Messi Socks
Argentinian Lionel Messi, one of the two most famous football players on Earth (the other being Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo) has changed his leg tattoo into a sock tattoo, covering his entire keg with black ink, leaving only two baby hands, the number 10 and his son's name Thiago.
You won't be able to see them during an official game as football players wear their socks high, but in practices or at the beach it will be very visible.
Football Smiley
Italian football player Alessandro Diamanti is quite weird as his tattoos are symbolic only to himself. It seems as if he is a test pilot for "Tattoos for anyone 101". His skin is full of doodles, smilies, cartoon characters and other scribbles.
Don't stop here... there's more!
Haunting Woman
This haunting yet beautiful woman is filled with depth and detail. It also has a deeper meaning and seems to correlate to the Mexican day of death celebration- Dia de Los Muertos.
Eyes Everywhere
This quirky and beautiful tattoo was done by Angelique Houtkamp, a tattooist who has earned a reputation for her unique feminine style and artwork on both skin and on canvas. She is based in Amsterdam and regularly creates tattoos with a twist- like this 3-eyed woman.
Body Canvas
The image may be quite disturbing- a man ready to jump, but the way this artist has used this man's back to create a detailed 3D painting is just jaw-dropping. We can imagine this work of art took hours and hours to perfect.
Maize
The tattoo artist who made this creation used a design known as ‘blackout’ a tattoo art form becoming increasingly popular and influence by the Polynesian tattooing of the past. This specific maize-like blackout work was created by the artist Gerard Wiesbeck.
British Love
Former world famous football player David Beckham has many tattoos on his body. His children's names and guardian angels are inked on his back, while he has the usual bad-ass sleeve tattoos, but on the back of his hand, he has the words "love" "Lead with love" and "723". 723 is the combination of his famous team numbers 7 and 23.
Hated Tattoos
While loved football player tattoos are copied by people all over the world, this one player could be the one to make several tattoos disappear. Sergio Ramos, probably the most hated player these days in Egypt, Liverpool and other parts of the planet, after what he did to Egyptian Liverpool star Muhamad Salah, has some ink to show around.
Most are religious and down-to-Earth, but they are all full of symbolism for him.
Divine Art
Corey Divine’s creations encompass her name. they are indeed! Graphic and geometrically balanced, these tattoos are mesmerizing.
Mashup
One cannot really be sure what this tattoo is depicting, but a closer look will reveal famous Spanish painter Salvador Dali. He was known for striking and bizarre images in the surreal type of art. Just like this tattoo.
Flower Power
She is a sunflower lady with an inking that brings out the floral spirit. A happy and beautiful creation which uses color to really let it pop.
For the Moms Out There
This sentimental ink is the perfect art to celebrate motherhood. The beautifully drawn mother and child are enough to make anyone emotional.
Tattoos with a message
Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimović has joined forces with Swedish ad agency Forsman & Bodenfors to convey a message of world hunger to the crowds. He is known for taking off his shirt during games, so this time he was called in to use his behavior for a cause. His body was covered with 50 real names of hungry people. Later on, everybody found out that they were not really inked on him, but the message got through.
Samoa Sleeve
Australia football star Tim Cahill has quite an arm tattoo. The traditional Samoan sleeve is said to symbolize his mothers' side of his family tree.
Snakes and Ladders
Another trend gaining popularity in the tattoo world is the white ink. This tattoo artist, Mirko Sata used the technique to create this tattoo inspired by a recurring dream of his about snakes. Snake symbolisms often appear in his work, which he claims symbolizes rebirth and transformation.
Shapes on Shapes
He is the king of geometric patterns and the king of tattoos- combine the two and you get a work of art such as this one. Artist Lewinsky is known for his optical illusions and geometrically inspired body art. He has stated about his use of shapes “I only incorporate sacred geometry on people who ask for it”
Say Cheese!
This tattoo is the most creative way I’ve seen of taking your camera with you wherever you go! For the photographers among us, this one is for you. This inking is especially quirky yet realistic.
Pulling the Strings
When looking at this haunting yet beautiful tattoo, all you want to do is hear the story behind it. And that is the point of art- to create story worthy pieces. An inking job well-done.
Another World
He goes by Thieves of Tower, a fitting name for tattooist Houston Patton who is known to transform his client’s bodies into scenes from fantasy worlds. This is a perfect example- a daunting scene on a woman’s chest.
Ankle Bracelet
Sometimes tattoos can be permanent accessorize. Like this stunning inking of a charm ankle bracelet. It makes the images like hearts, crosses and anchors seem unique and special despite there usually generic usage.
Catcher of Dreams
She must never have nightmares. I guess that happens when you have a permanent dream catcher inked on your thigh. This is a beautiful and detailed tattoo and one that adds to dreams.
Birds of a Feather Flock Together
Feather tattoos are common, as are bird tattoos. Yet this artist created a unique and stunning tattoo combining the two into a majestic work of art that verged on magical.
Shut Your Mouth
For those people that cannot keep their mouths shut- this brilliantly done 3D tattoo is quirky and fun- it is nice to see someone who doesn’t take body inks too seriously but has fun with it!
Doodle for Daddy
While this may not have been the most artistically challenging piece on the list, it is certainly the most sentimental one that no one can regret. This man took his son’s note to him and got it tattooed on his arm. Now he can look down and feel the love wherever he goes.
I Can See Your Heart
An external heart where the internal one is found. Brilliant, realistic and challenging artistically.
Tree Arms
Its as though the roots of the tree begin at his wrist and grow up his arm. A beautiful combination of art and nature.
Mother Nature
Another example of nature and art combining into one, this gorgeous old oak tree splattered with color brings out creativity. Her back is a true canvas.
All Over Art
It is hard not to focus on this woman’s perfect body, but if you see past it, these gorgeous tattoos make this whole woman’s body a canvas.
Puzzle Pieces
This is the best 3D example on the list. Somehow this artist managed to create an illusion that pushed boundaries of art and what the body can convey.
Pop Art
Mattia Mambo is responsible for this awesome creation. He has a specific style which he calls ‘Destrutturato’ tattoos in which he uses deconstructed foods and pop art to create brilliant works like this burger. He overlays them with think outlines for interesting results.
Oh the Mountains We Will Climb
Sometimes smaller is more effective. This small and elegant tattoo incorporating an arrow and mountain symbolizes strength and adventure and is perfectly positioned on this woman’s collarbone.
For the Bookworms Among Us
My personal favorite, probably because books and coffee are my two favorite things. This ink celebrates the bookworm and caffeine addicts. A pile of books styled to perfection and a work of tattoo genius.
A Rose Amongst the Thorns
Simple, elegant and sexy. This black rose is perfectly positioned to mix both art and sex-appeal.
Commitment to the Ink
This guy took his body ink to the next level and is certainly committed to turning his body (and head) into a canvas. Nearly fully inked in black, he has created mesmerizing patterns and a true expression of art.
Spread Your Wings
It is often thought that wing tattoos are exclusively for women, yet this proves otherwise. It is beautiful, artistic and masculine (and his broad shoulders don’t hurt either). It looks as though he can take flight any second.
Butterflower
Half butterfly, half flowers, full art. This design is feminine and incredibly detailed. A good source of inspiration for someone looking for beauty and creativity.
Butterfly Lady
Another woman who has turned her back into a canvas of creativity. It's as if a stunning swarm of butterflies have taken refuge on her back, and the beauty is there to stay. The quote running down her spine adds a personal and sentimental touch to this creation.
Don’t Cry, Baby
Well-known tattooist Johnny Gloom is responsible for this haunting piece. His graphic, all black pieces are known for their seductive and dark feel.
Type Your Heart Out
His work is inspired by Picasso with a colorful edge. Berlin tattooist Peter Aurisch brings quirky to all his art, including this tattoo of a typewriter which overflows with creativity.
What’s Going on Insider that Head?
Sun, bridges, waves, and flowers. This tattoo shows what it means to have a creative mind. Inked by German artist Susanne Konig who works only in black to create highly detailed pieces, this is up there with her best work.
Sealed in the Stars
Joel Wrights, the creator of this piece, believes tattoos are one of the truest forms of art stating: "I don’t make a distinction between fine art and tattooing." Looking at this gorgeous work of a galaxy, we could not agree more.
Line Art
Another trend in the world of tattoos is line art. Russian tattooist Diana Katsko is amongst the line art experts. He uses line art to give a clean and fine artistic feeling to the skin.
Much Needed Rhino Appreciation
This tattoo dedication to the rhino is much needed and could have been inked in memorial of the last White Rhino who died this year (2018) it is sad that such a beautiful creature is reaching extinction. This amazing tattoo which brings life to the creature was created in Marks of Art Tattoo in San Jose and has important value in our day and age.
Iconic Body Art
Pitta KKM is the Korean tattoo artist who created this iconic tattoo. His style is taking iconic art and transforming it into cultural or traditional art.
He explains the methods he uses stating: "In Korea, there are traditional colors called ‘오방색’ (five direction colors). Blue, white, red, black and yellow for east, west, south, north and middle, respectively. I always use clouds and colors in the traditional pattern."
Catch me a Dream
Another gorgeous dreamcatcher tattoo. It is no wonder this design is a favorite amongst woman, it is both feminine but with an edge and if done well, it truly is art on the skin.
The Diva Who Dared
These tattoos are the perfect example of seduction and creativity in one. They truly add to her skin as if permanent jewelry and make her look like somewhat on an ancient princess.
Ink of the Spirit
Inking Cthulhu all over your back is not the first thing that comes to mind for most people, but for famous social persona Patton Suicide it seems to be just her thing so she now has it all over her back. Cthulhu is a cosmic entity written into life by H. P. Lovecraft back in 1928 and has somewhat of a cult following.
Movie Mania
This tattoo is inspired by the hit film Léon: The Professional which came out way back in 1994 but is one of those films which never truly get old. There’s no knowing if Jean Reno would enjoy being tattooed all over someone (though I wo0uld be honored) but this guy went for it!
This film helped Natalie Portman shoot to fame. In the plot, Leon (Jean Reno) is a good-hearted hitman who helps 12-year-old Mathilda (Natalie Portman) get revenge on her family’s murderer. See it and maybe you will also be so moved you will want it inked!
Robo-Man
It feels like we’ve stepped 100 years into the future when looking at the optical illusion that this tattoo has created. The realistic 3D bionic ink has turned this guy into a half-robot!
Let the Adventure Begin
Although tattoos involving travel motifs are quite overdone, somehow this tattooist managed to make a unique and creative travel tattoo work. The compass/ hot air balloon creation awakes the inner explorer and makes you want to book your next flight.
Mind Maze
Yet another Korean tattoo artist that uses ink to push boundaries, Kim Michey uses Western symbols to give her tattoos a twisted underground feel. When your brain gets tangled, as this picture perfectly represents, untangle and enjoy life!
Yummy Ink
Newport tattoo parlor is found in Newport Beach, CA. So obviously most of the tattoo ideas are inspired by the ocean. Or just a sailor’s bottle of rum!
Family First
While some try push boundaries of creativity with body ink, some use it for sentimental reasons, like these parents who decided on a cartoon-like family portrait on both bodies. Dad has mom and son and mom has dad and son, does it get more adorable than this?
Origami Ink
Another trend on the rise is origami tattoos. although they have always been popular, paper folding has become more than simply cool paper animals and is now an art form that can be translated as tattoos to give awesome results.
Here Kitty Kitty
I personally am not amongst the cat lovers in the world, but even I can appreciate the beauty of this tattoo. Apparently, the trend of cute kittens has not only taken over YouTube, but the inking world as well! This watercolor tattoo is also an idea for all those who are seeking a tattoo which is cute, clean and friendly.
Simple and Effective
Sometimes you do not need a crazy face or animal to bring beauty to a tattoo, sometimes floral and detailed designs are all you need to create a mesmerizing effect such as this one which begs you to stare at it and appreciate the art.
Constant Reminder
The Koi fish tattoos have a well-known meaning, they symbolize courage, overcoming adversity and strength of character. And while you may want a small one as a personal reminder, this guy decided he wanted to remind the world by getting a striking and bold image of two Koi Fish.
My Body, My Art
When you adopt the mentality that your body is your canvas, a world of tattoo possibilities is open before you. However, make sure that your art is meaningful, so you don’t forget yourself and what it is all for at the end of the day.
A Horror Story
Although it may be the scariest on the list, sometimes horror can be the most well-done. Take this example, a daunting tree and a hawk skilfully drawn to create a real-life horror that has to be appreciated.
Colour in the Dark
Anther tattoo which uses ‘blackout’ style. This tattooist pulled out all the stops with this piece, we have white ink, black ink, and a burst of color to create this mesmerizing flower effect.
Space Jam
This tattoo is a brilliantly done illusion of space breakout out onto the skin. Tattoo artist Olga Grigorieva challenged herself on this one and pushed boundaries to create a piece las realistic as this one.
Made in Japan
These colorful Japanese sleeves created by the artist who goes by RG74 are detailed and beautiful. The intricate precision of which he created each individual image work together to turn this guy’s arms into total art.
Disney Doodles
Lauren Winzer uses her Instagram page as a platform to show off her tattoo art and has attracted a large viewing due to her vibrant and detailed tattoos of Disney characters and floral arraignments. This particular tattoo incorporates both.
Nesting Ground
Talented tattooist Minka Sicklinger has an eye for details that translate into bold and edgy tattoos such as this one. Her tattoos usually include spiritual and natural motifs in animal or human form.
Greek Embrace
Some people like Greek mythology so much that they choose a story to tattoo on themselves. This guy chose the story of Eros and Psyche (Love and Reason). Created by tattoo artist Jun Cha it shows the two main characters embracing, so even if you’re not into Mythology, it is aesthetically beautiful.
Native American
Dmitri Samohin is the well-known artist responsible for this striking portrait. The tattoo of a Native American is rich in color and realism and a true work of art.
Dedication to the Game
This is what one calls dedication. He must be quite the gamer to decide to get a full inked sleeve depicting images from some of the most well-known games. Created by tattoo artist Niki Norberg, he definitely got inspiration from Starwars, Space Invaders, an Atari Joystick.
Virgin Mary
This guy is covered in inkings, yet the one that sticks out the most is not the colorful crazy busy ones, but the black and white realistic depiction of Virgin Mary covering his back. Interesting choice and the shading in this work can be appreciated by all artists.
Have eyes for you
