Do you even Geo, Bro?
So you think you want a geometric tattoo?
A brief understanding and guide
by: Hunter Knolmayer
An introduction to the universe-
Geometric tattoos have risen in popularity over the past decade or so, and have a very striking visual impact. There's something beautiful about creating a perfect mathematical design on an asymmetrical body part (If constructed properly) Some clients just seem to like the repetition and patterns throughout the designs, however; there are vast meanings behind many of the symbols often represented in geometric tattoos. One of the most common examples of a tattoo based off of geometry is the mandala. There are limitless posibillities in designing a mandala; which is a radial structure that emanates mathematically balanced designs from the center outward. The mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism; representing the universe. In common use, "mandala" has become a generic term for any diagram, chart or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically. Some artists use formulas to create their mandalas and other geometric tattoos using sacred geometry principles. Sacred geometry is a very complex concept; linking quantifiable mathematical formulas and patterns in geometric shapes to everything that exists around us. Now lets bore you to death with more clusters of big words and equations.
Every living being-
Patterns in nature are often represented in geometric tattoos. Have you ever looked at a pine cone or a sea shell? If not you should probably get off your computer and go on a hike, or hit the beach and kick around in the sand until you uncover a beautiful piece of the universe. Back to the point: there are growth patterns found in almost everything in nature. Mathematics are the force behind the beauty of all living things. From the macrochosm of the entirety of all existence, down to the microchosm of a single cell. The way cells divide, plants grow and organisms work together! There are formulas behind life itself, and that's part of the reason humans are drawn to these designs. They seem to radiate a certain energy; often leaving the viewer struck with chills, and a sense of unity and balance. When you look at a geometric tattoo you are looking at yourself, the universe and everything that has ever and will ever exist.
Mind blown?
Selecting a design/pattern-
In terms of composition and design, there are limitless possibilities in creating a geometric tattoo. The most important part is that your tattoo is accentuating the natural curvature of the body (In my opinion- although I'm sure many tattooers might not feel the same way) Your arm is not a perfect cylinder, so you can either have that work against your design or with it. Size of the tattoo will also determine whether or not it is successful. I've had many clients come to me asking for a small geometric tattoo while showing me pictures of full sleeves. Face it; you can't accomplish the same visual impact with a small design as you can with a large scale tattoo.
Once you've decided what body part you'd like to decorate, now you're at the fun part! My recomendation for any client is to look at pictures of tattoos, drawings, photos and illustrations to see what you DO like and what you DON'T like, that way when you have a consultation with an artist you can more easily communicate what it is you want your tattoo to express. A mandala for example: can have leafy points, rounded edges, jagged points, smooth curves, repeating patterns and so on. On the same token, there are tons of great geometric patterns with balance and symbolism that you can use to link between the larger pieces in your tattoo, so go find out what you like and why you're drawn to the beauty of these images! If you have an idea of what you like and a few reference images, we can cruise right through our consultation and get ready to create a one of a kind tattoo that has all the qualities you're into. That being said: don't overthink it. Allowing your tattooer some artistic freedom goes a long way in making a great piece.
Application/style/technique-
There's many ways to create a great geometric tattoo. You have to ask yourself, "Do I want color? Or black and grey? Or Both? During a consultation we can figure out all the details of the design but its good to have a starting point there. As far as structural styles we can choose from:
-Linework based designs with minimal shading
-Designs with shading to add dimension
-Dotwork
Dotwork is a very precise application of tiny spots of pigment arranged in a way that creates the illusion of depth. It is a very time consuming process but the end results can be breathtaking. Also referred to as stippling, dot work tattoos have a unique feel to them. Sometimes appearing as shading from far away and surprising to see the intricacies from up close. This application requires patience and commitment from both the client and tattooer.
-Overview
These words are just the tip of the iceberg, but enough to understand why you are getting a tattoo of this style. If you would like to know more and dig deeper into an understanding of the symbols in their connection to the world around us; Spirit Science is a great subject to look into. Don't get upset if it contradicts religious views, but take what you want from it in terms of mathematics and connections between numerology and geometry. It really is quite fascinating. If you would like to set up a consultation with a mind melting flesh manipulating madman, you can fill out a contact form or stop by the shop. Happy tattooing and remember to get a tattoo that covers your entire body or you're doing it wrong.
A brief understanding and guide
by: Hunter Knolmayer
An introduction to the universe-
Geometric tattoos have risen in popularity over the past decade or so, and have a very striking visual impact. There's something beautiful about creating a perfect mathematical design on an asymmetrical body part (If constructed properly) Some clients just seem to like the repetition and patterns throughout the designs, however; there are vast meanings behind many of the symbols often represented in geometric tattoos. One of the most common examples of a tattoo based off of geometry is the mandala. There are limitless posibillities in designing a mandala; which is a radial structure that emanates mathematically balanced designs from the center outward. The mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism; representing the universe. In common use, "mandala" has become a generic term for any diagram, chart or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically. Some artists use formulas to create their mandalas and other geometric tattoos using sacred geometry principles. Sacred geometry is a very complex concept; linking quantifiable mathematical formulas and patterns in geometric shapes to everything that exists around us. Now lets bore you to death with more clusters of big words and equations.
Every living being-
Patterns in nature are often represented in geometric tattoos. Have you ever looked at a pine cone or a sea shell? If not you should probably get off your computer and go on a hike, or hit the beach and kick around in the sand until you uncover a beautiful piece of the universe. Back to the point: there are growth patterns found in almost everything in nature. Mathematics are the force behind the beauty of all living things. From the macrochosm of the entirety of all existence, down to the microchosm of a single cell. The way cells divide, plants grow and organisms work together! There are formulas behind life itself, and that's part of the reason humans are drawn to these designs. They seem to radiate a certain energy; often leaving the viewer struck with chills, and a sense of unity and balance. When you look at a geometric tattoo you are looking at yourself, the universe and everything that has ever and will ever exist.
Mind blown?
Selecting a design/pattern-
In terms of composition and design, there are limitless possibilities in creating a geometric tattoo. The most important part is that your tattoo is accentuating the natural curvature of the body (In my opinion- although I'm sure many tattooers might not feel the same way) Your arm is not a perfect cylinder, so you can either have that work against your design or with it. Size of the tattoo will also determine whether or not it is successful. I've had many clients come to me asking for a small geometric tattoo while showing me pictures of full sleeves. Face it; you can't accomplish the same visual impact with a small design as you can with a large scale tattoo.
Once you've decided what body part you'd like to decorate, now you're at the fun part! My recomendation for any client is to look at pictures of tattoos, drawings, photos and illustrations to see what you DO like and what you DON'T like, that way when you have a consultation with an artist you can more easily communicate what it is you want your tattoo to express. A mandala for example: can have leafy points, rounded edges, jagged points, smooth curves, repeating patterns and so on. On the same token, there are tons of great geometric patterns with balance and symbolism that you can use to link between the larger pieces in your tattoo, so go find out what you like and why you're drawn to the beauty of these images! If you have an idea of what you like and a few reference images, we can cruise right through our consultation and get ready to create a one of a kind tattoo that has all the qualities you're into. That being said: don't overthink it. Allowing your tattooer some artistic freedom goes a long way in making a great piece.
Application/style/technique-
There's many ways to create a great geometric tattoo. You have to ask yourself, "Do I want color? Or black and grey? Or Both? During a consultation we can figure out all the details of the design but its good to have a starting point there. As far as structural styles we can choose from:
-Linework based designs with minimal shading
-Designs with shading to add dimension
-Dotwork
Dotwork is a very precise application of tiny spots of pigment arranged in a way that creates the illusion of depth. It is a very time consuming process but the end results can be breathtaking. Also referred to as stippling, dot work tattoos have a unique feel to them. Sometimes appearing as shading from far away and surprising to see the intricacies from up close. This application requires patience and commitment from both the client and tattooer.
-Overview
These words are just the tip of the iceberg, but enough to understand why you are getting a tattoo of this style. If you would like to know more and dig deeper into an understanding of the symbols in their connection to the world around us; Spirit Science is a great subject to look into. Don't get upset if it contradicts religious views, but take what you want from it in terms of mathematics and connections between numerology and geometry. It really is quite fascinating. If you would like to set up a consultation with a mind melting flesh manipulating madman, you can fill out a contact form or stop by the shop. Happy tattooing and remember to get a tattoo that covers your entire body or you're doing it wrong.