What’s the deal with Ignorant tattoos?
Young people are navigating a world filled with uncertainty. Climate changes, polarizing politics, escalating wealth inequality, and all the other effects of late stage capitalism have collectively ushered in a surge of nihilistic sentiments. If tattoo history has taught us anything, skin is used as a canvas to reflect society and culture. So, is it any surprise that the new trend of Ignorant tattoo style has risen in popularity (along with nihilism) over the last few years? If there is no real meaning to anything, is something that is so permanent really that significant? Let us dig deeper into where the style started, what makes a tattoo Ignorant, and what artists are running with it.
So how did this all start?
Around 2010, tattoo machinery became more accessible to non tattoo artists, and more people were purchasing equipment. Doing a stick and poke style tattoo on a friend became late-night party activities. Tattoos at that time represented a somewhat rebellious counter culture, but with more people attempting these at home tattoos — the style became more weird, often paired with a story or an inside joke between friends. How does one rebel against rebellion? By taking something considered sacred and permanent and making it the opposite — a joke. The medium became the message. You get a permanent meaningless marking, but that is the point. Because why does it even matter? It is sort of a poetic stamp of the times we are living in.
So, how did we go from stick and poke tattoos to a thriving style? Aesthetics. The demand for Ignorant designs with proper application is seemingly increasing. A graffiti artist, Fuzi, is said to be the creator of the Ignorant style and coined the term in 1996. As an artist, his graffiti style heavily influenced him as he started his tattooing career. What followed in the years after was actual tattoo artists who honed this aesthetic into their own brand; creating an entire style of new tattoo design.
What makes a tattoo Ignorant?
Ignorant tattoos are a rebellion against traditional tattoo norms; emphasizing unpolished, hand-drawn aesthetics, and a deliberately unrefined look. This style has gained popularity among younger people seeking the artistic freedom it offers. These tattoos are characterized by several distinctive features that set them apart from other styles. Not every Ignorant tattoo design will have all of these features but often artists will use a combination of them in their work.
- Intentional Distorted Lines
Ignorant tattoos often have uneven, wobbly, or shaky lines. This lack of precision gives them a raw, hand-drawn appeal. - Minimal Detail
Ignorant tattoos tend to be minimalistic in terms of detail and shading, opting for a simplified look. Shading tends to be presented in a block style or appears “colored in”. - Lack of Traditional Tattoo Beauty
These tattoos challenge beauty norms, opting for an intentionally “bad” or amateurish appearance. - Double mean and cultural reference
The art work itself tends to lean on the humorous side often referring to a meme or using the words have a doubling meaning.
My favorite Ignorant style tattoo artists
If you can’t fly across the world to see them — It is possible to work with a tattoo artist locally. Even though the style looks like your friend did it in the basement at a party — I still recommend going to a professional tattooer. Just make sure to research the artists; so you can discern the difference between an amateur tattooer and the professional one who can intentionally embody the Ignorant style with the correct application and health standards.
Fuzi — Based in LA
Of course, the man who claims to have started the style is on this list. Fuzis background in graffiti heavily influences his Ignorant tattoo style.
Kibas — Based in Barcelona
Kibas shares with the world a simple and minimalist Ignorant tattoo style.
Sean from Texas— Based in LA
Seans creations are like if Ignorant tattoos went on a psychedelic trip.
Harry Mckenzie — Brighton, UK
Harry offers a whimsical nod to the Ignorant tattoo style.
