Blackwork - history
The term "blackwork" has historically been used mainly to refer to tribal tattoos. Its origins come from antiquity, but later other forms of art began to be called this name. This style is particularly influenced by Polynesian works, using abstract patterns based on various shapes made using large amounts of black ink. Polynesian tattoos referred to the personalities of their owners, and the artists referred to tribal symbolism and iconography. Patterns often reflected background, beliefs, or affiliation to a particular group. Polynesian tattoo artists were almost considered shamans or priests who possessed divine knowledge of the tattooing ritual. All of these influences are evident in today's blackwork tattoos, and many artists still draw from the ancient aesthetic.
Blackwork - what is it characterized by?
Blackwork, is a style created for those who appreciate minimalism in tattooing. There is no place for color or shading here, because the main characteristic is the aforementioned black. Strong contrasts, 100% black color, which often covers large parts of the body - this is how you will know blackwork works. Blackwork style tattoos are also a good solution for those who want to forget about the so-called mistakes of youth. If you want to get rid of an unwanted tattoo, the "black job" will definitely handle it.
The raw aesthetic of this style is often combined with geometry and dotwork. Instead of classic shading, artists using blackwork put on more or less dense dots. Tattoos are often inspired by esotericism, alchemy, iconography, tribal patterns, engraving techniques or taken from henna tattoos. Many artists referring to the tribal style in blackwork are based on what was born in antiquity. Others draw inspiration from the so-called Spanish blackwork, which originates from embroidery made with black thread. Among some tattoo artists, there are also tendencies to an illustrative approach, as well as references to the so-called sacred geometry.
Blackwork is also a starting point for such styles as: art brut, neotribalism or ethnic tattoo.