Inside: Biomechanical Tattoo + Definition.
Tattoos are a great way of self-expression and people get a wide range of designs tattooed on their bodies. Some people get subtle and delicate tattoos like a small flower, a line art bird, some small scriptures or text, the popular semicolon on the wrist, or any other symbol that holds a special meaning to them. Other people tend to be more out there with their tattoos, as some even get entire tattoo sleeves.
Another sample of bold and loud tattoos that cannot be easily missed is biomechanical tattoos. Not too long ago, these types of tattoos seemed like a pipe dream. However, in the past decade or so, the art and technology of tattoos have made substantial progress. As a result, not only are these tattoos possible but are gaining widespread popularity in the world of tattoos.
What Are Biomechanical Tattoos?
Biomechanical art is a form of surrealistic art style that combines organics with machinery. For instance, one of the most common types of Biomech art is replacing bones and joints with gears and pistons, while retaining the muscles and tendons. As a result, the human or animal representation looks like something out of a sci-fi or fantasy movie.
This art style first came into the limelight when Swiss artist H.R. Giger used similar techniques to design the alien creatures in 1979 for the now popular movie Alien. At the time, this was an art style that had never been seen before.
Even back then, people who were passionate about sci-fi movies started demanding tattoos with similar art styles, especially since movies like Alien and Star Wars, and even the TV shows like Star Trek and Doctor Who were becoming so popular around the time.
Unfortunately, there weren’t any tattoo artists who had the kind of experience, skill, and technology that could pull off such tattoos. But things have massively changed today, and anyone looking to get these tattoos can drop by almost any certified tattoo artist to have their wish fulfilled.
Nowadays, people make use of biomechanical tattoos to make their limbs or any body part look more “mechanized.” The tattoo creates a sort of illusion that gives your body the look of a robotic part or machine.
Additionally, these tattoos can be made on almost any part of your body. Want your hand to look like a robot’s hand? A biomechanical tattoo sleeve can make that happen. Want to make your head look like you’re always wearing a supervillain’s helmet from a sci-fi movie? Discuss your intention with an experienced biomechanical tattoo artist.
The idea behind Giger’s art was to combine organics and machinery in a way that made people look realistic yet futuristic at the same time. Of course, Giger was, for the most part, working to create monsters for a sci-fi horror movie.
Yet, the art style was so unique and interesting that it gain immense popularity. It began with both, aspiring artists and hobbyists alike, attempting to replicate the art style and giving it their own personal spin.
Soon enough, with advancements in tattooing machines, tattoo artists also started experimenting with different art styles, including biomechanical art.
The same ideology that Giger introduced was used in these tattoos. Only this time, actual humans were being given tattoos that made them look robotic and futuristic.
You can always opt for a biomechanical that does not make you look like a robot if that’s what you prefer. This means getting a design that resembles a biomechanical art piece but doesn’t actually involve turning your body part into something futuristic.
- Back – The back is the largest flat area on the body, and as such, it’s perfect for a big, complex tattoo. Oftentimes you’ll find these tattoos are done on the back usually involve a ‘skinless’ look. Appearing to expose the spine, ribs, and internal organs, either entirely mechanical or combining a realistic organic look with mechanical elements.
- Legs and arms– Legs are also perfect locations for any serious tattoo. Piston-like ‘bones’ combined with realistic-looking muscle are often tattooed on legs and arms to create the illusion of being part-machine.
- Hand and Palm Tattoo – This is a great place for smaller biomechanical designs. They look awesome and can be added to in the future, extending the tattoo up the forearm.
Characteristics of Biomechanical Tattoos
Most of the time, biomechanical tattoos are made with the use of black and grey ink. The colors are combined with the human flesh to give it the robotic look.
Sometimes, a tattoo artist may use silver ink to give the design a bit more depth. However, you rarely ever see shiny and bright colors being used in biomechanical tattoos. In rare cases, red may be used to give the tattoo a bloody look.
Biomechanical Tattoo Ideas
Spine tattoos are some of the most popular biomechanical creations. These consist of a pole-like design placed directly below the backbone. This gives the spine an illusion of a mechanical look.
Other interesting ideas include:
- Robotic Sleeve
- Skeletal Arm
- Robotic leg
- Internal Machinery
- Robot fingers
So if you’re thinking about getting a tattoo and want something truly unique, consider getting a biomechanical tattoo. I will certainly bring out a unique look and will also be a great conversation starter.