tribal designs
Traditional cultural motifs
Tribal designs are bold, stylized patterns inspired by the traditional body art and ornamentation of indigenous cultures—Polynesian, Maori, Celtic, and others.
The term usually refers to the tattoo style that became hugely popular in the 1990s: black geometric shapes, sweeping curves, and interlocking lines.
Critics note that many "tribal" tattoos borrow aesthetically without understanding the cultural significance of the original designs.
- MaoriNew Zealand's indigenous people
- AboriginalAustralia's native peoples
- PolynesianOf Pacific island peoples
- AfricanOf that southern continent
- IndigenousOriginal inhabitants of land
Aztec · Celtic · sacred symbols · linework · bold lines · Inuit · blackwork · Filipino · Mythology · Borneo · floral motifs · geometric patterns · tattoo · skin art · ink work · symbolism · Native American · cultural heritage
- body paintface paint, body paint, body glitter, glitter paint, war paint
- Native Textileshand weaving, Navajo rugs, Navajo blankets, weavers, looms
- face paint designscat face, clown face, superhero mask, monster face
- rugsrugs, area rug, throw rug, shag rug, runner rug
- temporary tattooshenna, mehndi, face tattoos, wedding henna, black henna
- metalworkblacksmithing, gilding, silversmithing, enamel, metal crafts
tribal designsminimalist design
Aesthetic of essential elements only
modernist design · Art Nouveau · classical motifs · clean lines · negative space
tribal designsphotorealism
Art imitating camera accuracy
hyperrealism · figurative art · trompe l'oeil · botanical illustration · realist painting