Popular tattoo designs are often rooted in a specific culture and connote particular meanings. Celtic tattoos, star tattoos, and dragon tattoos are some examples of these. Compared to these styles, urban tattoos have more of a laid back vibe and modern twist to it. Although the urban-themed tattoos still hold personal meanings, its overall feature is that it is freeform and is worn to exude personal style. Inspiration for the designs is drawn from the surroundings. Anything that tickles the imagination and suits personal aesthetics can be transformed into an inked artwork.
Designs of urban tattoos often depict things that are a part of the urban culture. These include things that can be seen on the streets such as graffiti art and customized cars. The concept of the designs may usually come from a person's background, social status or hobbies and interests. Images of significant people such as a family member, a historical figure, and even celebrities are some of the common design elements featured in urban tattoos. Basically, the images of graffiti art, customized cars and people are combined with other elements like flowers, geometric shapes or curved lines in creating the designs. Color is incorporated in the tattoo as well to make it more vibrant. Sometimes, monochromatic designs are made more interesting by adding hints of other colors.
One prevalent characteristic of urban tattoos is the airbrush effect. In this style, the colors are saturated at the focal point of a design then fades as the edges are reached. A hazy outline in effect aids in the emphasis of the main feature of the design. Among the images that are perfectly suited for the air brush effect are mythical creatures like dragons and hydras, religious icons like saints or Buddha, and believe it or not, clowns. Clown tattoos are also common in gangster style tattoos.
The appeal of urban tattoos lies on its inherent freestyle characteristic. Unlike other tattoo themes in which the designs are limited by its defining symbols, urban tattoos are freeform and are borne out of creativity and imagination. Everything is personal when it comes to designing urban tattoos. These tattoos often paint personal experiences, ambitions and inspirations. It is no wonder that these types of tattoos have variety and uniquely define an individual's personal style. Indeed, designing and "wearing" your own urban-inspired tattoo is the perfect way to show-off your personality. These tattoos also serve as excellent conversation topics.
