Many Goth tattoos are a reflection of this creativity. The tattoos are typically quite imaginative and varied. Their interest in religious imagery is reflected in the tattoos that are chosen as well. This may include angels, rosary beads and crosses. Since a fascination with medieval times is also an interest of the Goth culture, the images may include mythological characters such as demons, dragons, fairies and vampires.
Horror movies are a main influence for Goths and this is another source of subject matter for the tattoos they choose. The Emergence of Goth from the year 1979 to 1983 are associated with the beginning of the Goth movement, as we know it today. It is believed to be a result of the British punk scene. This era was considered to be partially responsible for the development of the Goth culture. It was a time when conservatism ruled and the economy was in a recession. The accepted behavior was to avoid anything disturbing and focus on being happy.
Goth was even more visible in the 1990s with the advent of movies (The Crow) and bands (Nine Inch Nails) that further supported the culture. It even became popular in shopping malls with the emergence of stores such as Hot Topics, which have become a fixture in these malls. The Goth look goes through cycles. It will be the rage of all the designers for a couple of years and then will fade until it becomes a fashion trend again. However, Gothic tattoos are truly a lasting method of self-expression.
Gothic tattoos have survived the cycles of trending and fading and are still very much in style. There are many subjects that are used for creating the tattoo designs depending on the interpretation of each individual as to what the Gothic meaning is to them. The use of skulls is one and tribal tattoos are often considered to be partially Gothic. An open dagger or a snake interwoven with vines that is tattooed on the arms is one type of tattoo that is considered Gothic.
The colors are typically black and may contain some red and white/grey ink. A fairy with dark hair and bat wings is another choice that is seen often in Gothic tattoos.
The lettering used for the tattoos is distinctive as well. The fonts and lettering are known as Old English tattoo lettering. They originated from the Old English language that was used from approximately 1150 to 1500 A.D. The lettering has flourishes and ornamentation that are associated with calligraphy. The intent is to make the lettering stand out and the font is known as blackletter.
Society often decides what is acceptable and what is not. However you feel about Gothic tattoos, they are definitely interesting.