Tattoos aren’t frowned upon now like in previous generations. They’ve become a symbol of one’s creative or sentimental side; allowing wearers to remember someone or something forever (at least until it fades, then you’ll have to get it retouched again). This freedom has resulted in so many styles and techniques that it can get overwhelming if you plan to have your first one done soon.
If your tattoo decision is still up in the air, we advise you to turn your attention to abstract tattoos. As much as we love watercolor and minimalist tattoos at Cosmo HQ, there’s something so attractive about them. Maybe it’s because the designs are so intricate or the shapes and textures make it super eye-catching—there are plenty of reasons to get an abstract tattoo.
But we know you don’t have time to read through all that, so these 15 tattoo ideas are enough to convince you to get an actual piece of art on your body!
First, what are abstract tattoos?
If you’ve never heard of abstract tattoos before, basically, it refers to tattoos that look like works of art. It usually doesn’t depict one thing (like a quote or planet) and is drawn with various lines, shapes, patterns, and shading. Think: a version of the Mona Lisa blended with stars and planets on your forearm.
If it were on a canvas, you’d be able to frame it and hang it in your home! The result is a stunning tatt that’s unlike anything you’ll come across, and might make your friends want the same one!
15 Abstract Tattoo Ideas And Designs That Are Works Of Art
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Line face
Don’t you love how numerous squiggles can result in a gorgeous face with flowers sprouting out? Get one of your loved one or even your pet to keep them close!
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Custom drawing
If you’re an artist, you can unleash your creativity through an abstract tattoo and use different colors and objects!
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Sketches
Roar! A rough drawing of a lion has never looked so good.
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Mystic animal
The combination of graphic shapes, lines, and bursts of pink, violet, and blue beautifully highlights the deer and flowers.
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Strong and dark
For horror or thriller fans, eerie abstract tattoos will look gorgeous on your arm! Note: This one can take a while to finish as it includes a lot of shading.
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Minimalist
Yup, abstract tattoos still work if you’re a minimalist! Take this one, for example. Those who love Neil Gaiman’s work will instantly recognize Dream’s mask-like helmet surrounded by overlapping shapes.
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Flames
A fire tattoo doesn’t need to be full of orange and red. With this tattoo, less is more, mainly since it includes a lightly shaded figure being encircled.
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Pandora’s Box
Want something bolder? Try an abstract tattoo from your torso down to your thigh! This one incorporates Egyptian gods, mandalas, and other Greek mythos to support the “Pandora’s Box” theme.
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One line
Abstract tattoos can either be maximalist or minimalist. If you prefer the latter, you’ll love this singular line from the neck down to the wrist! You can also get it in different colors to make it stand out more.
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Mini painting
Since abstract tattoos are like mini paintings, here’s one that actually looks like it can be framed.
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Handpoked
Proof that abstract tattoos can still work as handpoked ink.
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Surreal abstract
The beauty of abstract tattoos is the elements don’t always have to be related to each other to work!
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Watercolor handpoked
Surprised you can get watercolor tattoos poked? Make your ink pop by taking inspiration from this artwork!
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Stars
Love a specific scene from your favorite anime movie? Turn it into an abstract tattoo, just like this one from “Howl’s Moving Castle”!
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Dragon
Blend your love for dragons and cute things with an abstract tattoo that looks like it came straight from a coloring book!
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