Top Tattoo Trends of 2022
Although we first noticed the 2022 tattoo trend sparking a little last year, people are now truly accepting it! Crayon tattoos are a great way to express your artistic side. This is something we are sure to see more of, whether it’s childlike drawings or hyperrealistic spreads of impasto color lovingly on skin.
Hardcore Illustrative
Esoteric is making an impressive comeback. Illustrative tattoos are getting heavy on linework. Many artists are creating complex pieces that use a lot of linework, much like drypoint or classical etching. A new generation is embracing the primitive and magical aspects of Alchemical, Dark Art, and Esoteric motifs.
Smaller Neck Tattoos
The face tattoo has finally slowed down! Even though some hardcore homies still prefer larger neck and face pieces, it appears that tiny neck tattoos will continue to be a popular trend in 2022. Trends are often viral and quickly become popular. Then it gets smaller and more reserved. It makes sense that sometimes people will want to dip a little before diving in. Even smaller amounts can make people feel like they are part of a larger trend and community.
Full Bodysuits
The great thing about tattoo art becoming mainstream is the fact that many people have become more familiar with the styles and artists of tattoos before even getting their first piece. Newbies are often more committed than those who have been there before and are willing to dedicate large portions of their bodies to one style or one artist. This results in high-impact and inspiring work. This was actually something we mentioned in our 2020 forecast. However, this tattoo trend will continue to be strong in 2022.
Although we first noticed the 2022 tattoo trend sparking a little last year, people are now truly accepting it! Crayon tattoos are a great way to express your artistic side. This is something we are sure to see more of, whether it’s childlike drawings or hyperrealistic spreads of impasto color lovingly on skin.
Hardcore Illustrative
Esoteric is making an impressive comeback. Illustrative tattoos are getting heavy on linework. Many artists are creating complex pieces that use a lot of linework, much like drypoint or classical etching. A new generation is embracing the primitive and magical aspects of Alchemical, Dark Art, and Esoteric motifs.
Tattoo Design Trends for 2022
Stencil Tattoos
The stencil tattoo is a new trend in tattoos for 2022. Artists are using stencil tattoos to create a look that is more like a tattoo design than a tattoo. Mike Elmo has created this unique look by using purple-blue dye ink. Andreas Vrontis creates this look with old-school carbon copy paper, while Kelly Rico creates this stencil style using black ink. This gives it an antique look. This is an interesting trend that we love, regardless of the technique used.
Folk Patterns
Traditional tattoo artists have loved folk patterns for centuries, but there has been an increase in the popularity of these motifs. Folk patterns are no longer used to embellish larger tattoos. Many artists and clients use folk patterns to express their cultural identity. We have seen a lot of beautiful Indonesian Batik and classic Korean patterns, such as the Taegeuk. We look forward to more in 2022!
Oriental Florals and Vases
We saw hints of a 2022 trend towards the end of 2021: oriental flowers, vases. Although these motifs are well-known, tattoo artists today are using them in a new way. Last year’s favorite piece was by Ch0_. By using the length of the arms and the chest, the skin becomes a flowing stream of florals. This inspired many clients and artists. We have also seen vases decorated with Kintsugi (or “golden joinery”), an ancient Japanese technique of fixing pottery with melted golden.
Anime Tattoos
This tattoo trend has been around for a while, but we’ll be seeing more anime and manga-themed tattoos in 2022. This could partly be due to the overwhelming and lasting fashion trend of us going back to the ‘90s. Netflix also picked up all Studio Ghibli films, pushing anime even further into mainstream culture. Many people love these intricate Fineline pieces and nostalgia is still strong.
Trends in Tattoo Placement 2022
Smaller Neck Tattoos
The face tattoo has finally slowed down! Even though some hardcore homies still prefer larger neck and face pieces, it appears that tiny neck tattoos will continue to be a popular trend in 2022. Trends are often viral and quickly become popular. Then it gets smaller and more reserved. It makes sense that sometimes people will want to dip a little before diving in. Even smaller amounts can make people feel like they are part of a larger trend and community.
Full Bodysuits
The great thing about tattoo art becoming mainstream is the fact that many people have become more familiar with the styles and artists of tattoos before even getting their first piece. Newbies are often more committed than those who have been there before and are willing to dedicate large portions of their bodies to one style or one artist. This results in a high-impact and inspiring work. This was actually something we mentioned in our 2020 forecast. However, this tattoo trend will continue to be strong in 2022.
This post was written by J Michael Taylor. J Michael Taylor is an artist and owner of Black Amethyst Tattoo Gallery. Black Amethyst is the best amongst St Pete tattoo shops. They provide an art-first approach to custom tattooing in a gallery setting.
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