Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Tribal Sun Tattoo Designs

Tribal Sun Tattoo Designs
In general, the sun is thought to be a symbol of glory, authority and brilliance, and because of this it has become a very popular image for body art. Tribal sun tattoos are a little different when it comes to symbolism, however, as its meaning often depends on the group of people who are using it. For instance, the Navajo sun emblem is connected to both war and creation, while the Mayans felt that it was an emblem for productivity and enlightenment.

Some of the most commonly seen tribal sun tattoos consist of sharp lines pointing out from a fine, black circle. These designs sometimes take on a swirling pattern that is used to represent the moving flames of the sun itself. Although this particular style is generally done in simple black, it may also be done in shades of red or deep blue. Sometimes people like to add embellishments to these pieces such as stoic-looking faces, astrological glyphs or religious artifacts.

Traditional symbols are also occasionally used for tribal sun tattoos. One of the more common emblems is similar in appearance to the modern take on tribal body art and consists of a small circle that is topped with seven sharp rays that curve to the right. This design, which is often done in black and outlined in red, is said to represent the seven energy centers of human beings.

Another traditional symbol that is used for tribal sun tattoos is the Hopi tribe’s sun Kachina. This symbol depicts a small, simple face that is horizontally split into colors of red and white. Surrounding this face is six sets of matching feathers. A second Hopi sun symbol shows another simple face that is surrounded by bright rays of red, white and yellow.

Navajo and Mayan symbols are two other great options for tribal sun tattoos. Like the Hopi emblems, the Navajo sun symbol shows a small white and blue face. This face is generally lined in black and surrounded by a blue circle that bears an arrangement of red feathers. The Mayan symbol is a little more unusual. This image shows a small circle within a circle that bears two long lines at the top. On either side of these lines are two other small circles.

Sun Tattoo Designs

Sun Tattoo Designs
The sun is the most precious source of light, growth and warmth. It provides us with clarity after a shadowy night and protection from all the things that lurk in darkness. For these reasons alone, sun tattoos can make a deep impact. But these are not the only reasons a person would choose such a design. The sun, much like its astral brethren, carries a good deal of mythology, symbolism and intrigue with it.

The sun god can be seen in nearly every culture throughout history. One of the more popular depictions, however, is the Greek god Helios. Helios is not only god of the sun, but the sun itself. This image can be beautifully translated into tattoo art. sun tattoosThe story goes that Helios drove a chariot led by four fire breathing horses every day, thus lighting up the sky. This image can be done in bright and bold colors, or black and white; it can be done in a classic painting style, or in a more modern illustration.

The beauty of sun tattoos is not only the simplicity of shape, but the potential for adaptability in design. For instance, you could try a monotone antique woodblock, or a colorful Celtic mosaic. You can mix symbols to tell a personal story; the sun blossoming from the stem of a rose to symbolize burgeoning love, or glowing behind a religious symbol to show the warmth one gets from their personal faith.

A very popular sun design is the tribal style. Tribal sun tattoos are usually very simple, using minimal colors (most frequently black, reds and occasionally blues), and sharp, clean lines. Although these are most often seen as a simple circle with jagged points jutting from it, there are a few other ways to utilize this style. For instance, you could use something a little softer, creating sun rays that look more like watery waves. You can also include a face or symbol in the body of the sun.

Sun tattoos can be light hearted and simple, or deeply meaningful and highly elaborate. However you so choose to depict this ancient and extraordinary symbol, you will be certain to make a fantastic statement.