ERRY SAILOR, REGARDED AS ONE OF THE FOUNDING FATHERS OF OLD SCHOOL
Norman 'Sailor Jerry' Collins, a prominent figure in the old school world, began refining these designs in the 1930s. He is often credited as the father of the American traditional style. His tattoos were characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and iconic American symbolism.
In the 1970s and 80s, a cultural shift began to influence society's view on tattoos, allowing the American traditional style to flourish
Today, this style continues to be popular among tattoo enthusiasts, and its history attests to timeless appeal and a enduring spirit of rebellion and freedom. American traditional tattoos, also known as Old School, are rebellious, bold, and timeless, characterized by unique features and a rich history.
Jerry Sailor more than just a tattoo today.
SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR OLD SCHOOL MOTIFS THROUGHOUT TIM
Eagles: A symbol of independence and strength, the mighty eagle is a staple in American traditional tattoo art.
Nautical Themes: From pirates to majestic ships, these designs celebrate the seafaring heritage.
Roses: Known for their beauty and thorns, roses symbolize the balance between beauty and pain
SnakesThese slithering creatures are often depicted as a symbol of transformation and rebirth.
Skulls: Often associated with mortality and the fleeting nature of life, skulls serve as a powerful reminder of our transient existence
Hearts: Whether a symbol of love, passion, or sorrow, hearts are a versatile element in the realm of American traditional tattoos.
Pin-up Girls: These cheeky beauties are a nostalgic tribute to the vintage era, embracing beauty, femininity, and allure
Daggers: Symbolizing courage and resilience, daggers are a popular choice for those seeking to guard their scars.
5 FACTS ABOUT OLD SCHOOL TATTOOS
- Sailor influence: Old school tattoos have deep roots in seafaring culture. In the 17th and 18th centuries, sailors began tattooing themselves as memories of places they had visited or as amulets to protect them at sea
- Symbolism in the designs: Each design in the old school style carries profound symbolism. For instance, the anchor represents stability and loyalty, while roses can symbolize love and beauty.
- Color palette: Old school tattoos are known for their limited color palette, typically consisting of black, red, green, and blue. This restriction contributes to the distinctive style and gives the tattoos a timeless appeal.
- Minimalistic Shading One of the distinctive features of old school tattoos is the minimal use of shading. The emphasis is on clear outlines and vibrant fill colors.
- Influence on modern tattoo art: The old school style has had a significant influence on Modern tattoo artMany modern tattoo artists draw inspiration from this classic style and add their own contemporary twist.
WE BELIEVE THIS STYLE REMAINS TIMELESS
This style is the very essence of the classic – a genuine rebel mark that still holds strong relevance in the world of tattoos. American traditional tattoos can be likened to a fine wine – they only mature with time.
When the ink has settled into the skin over time, the design takes on a deeper and more refined character. With its distinctive design, American traditional tattoos instantly capture attention with bold lines, vibrant colors, and iconic motifs.
The historical significance of this style dates back centuries, linked to sailor culture and war symbolism. Although trends come and go, American traditional tattoos remain always popular.
Their classic style transcends short-term fashion cycles, ensuring that your tattoo will always be relevant and respected. Old school tattoos don't seem to be going out of style anytime soon!
Old school tattoos are also more durable than many other types of tattoos and require less maintenance to preserve their beauty over time. These are all reasons why this relatively old tattoo style has maintained its popularity over the last hundred years.
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