Geometry is defined as the branch of mathematics concerned with the property and relationships between points, lines, surfaces, and shapes, but geometry is so much more than just numbers and figures. It is a powerful tool that can be used to describe the world around us and provide us with glimpses into how that outside world relates to an inner truth contained within each of us.
Because of this profound significance and the compelling images that can be created with a geometric style, more and more people are choosing to get geometric tattoos. The universal nature of geometry and the ability to incorporate its principles into an endless variety of topics and subject matter make it perfectly suited for the list of 50+ best tattoo ideas.
The variety of concepts that can utilize geometric designs and patterns is limited only by the creativity of the individual and the talent of the tattoo artist. From fine linework that is reminiscent of schematics and wiring diagrams to out-of-this-world cosmic scenes, geometry can be utilized to enhance almost any tattoo design.
The tattoo art presented here demonstrates the variety and versatility of this popular trend, but even they are just scratching the surface of what is possible with geometric tattoo designs.
1. Linework Geometric Tattoos
This is a clean tattoo that uses a variety of geometric shapes, produced using black ink, to create the background for the smoothly applied black and gray moth at the center.
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In this piece, the tattoo artist uses an abstract composition that utilizes concentric circles, a black and gray lighthouse, an Om symbol, and a photo-realistic flower to create a visually complex, one-of-a-kind piece of custom body art.
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This is an interesting piece that is reminiscent of Kepler’s Platonic Solid model of the solar system from 1596, which incorporates other elements like the Empire State building and two hands, all applied in clean black lines.
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Unlike other linework pieces, this tattoo utilizes a limited but vibrant use of blue ink in a watercolor approach to highlight the crashing waves that are reminiscent of the famous Japanese woodblock print, The Great Wave.
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This piece also stands out from other linework tattoos, thanks to the incorporation of a photo-realistic portrait of a woman’s face executed in clean black and gray.
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For this piece, the artist uses clean black lines applied in a precise but rudimentary fashion, which gives these sacred geometry tattoos the appearance of being pulled from an ancient grimoire of mystic spells and incantations.
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One of the most recognizable images in modern history, this artist uses black lines and an expert application — notice the perfect circle and straight lines — to recreate Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous Universal Man.
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Sometimes tattoos that forego color in favor of intricate, black linework can be drab and unexceptional. Geometric linework tattoos do not suffer from this problem. In fact, thanks to the variety of shapes and designs that are possible with a geometric approach, it is the perfect style for linework tattoos.
While some of these pieces are rather simple and stick with black linework, others incorporate different elements — from crashing waves to a female portrait — to make for more exciting and compelling body art. These pieces perfectly demonstrate what is possible with geometric linework designs.
2. Animal Geometric Tattoos
This is an interesting piece that uses black and gray ink and incorporates angular geometric shapes that contrast with the round, organic lines of the bee’s body and wings.
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This is a beautiful piece that blends numerous styles — geometric shapes and patterns, stipple work, and photo-realistic shading — to create a unique ode to the wearer’s love of flamingoes.
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Animals were some of the original subjects for tattoos; even some ancient tribal tattoos utilize animals in their designs, and for good reason. Man has a history of interactions with animals that goes back millennia, and the creatures we share this world with have become powerful symbols for a variety of different traits and characteristics.
When incorporated into designs that utilize geometry — especially patterns that draw from sacred geometry — animal tattoos can take on an added significance.
These clean geometric animal tattoos, including a geometric cat tattoo, are great examples of pieces that seamlessly blend animals with mind-blowing geometric shapes and patterns.
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3. Abstract Geometric Tattoos
While some people prefer the straightforward approach of realism and true-to-life depictions of scenes, other people feel that abstract work better suits their personality and style. Luckily for these people, geometric designs are perfectly suited for these unique concepts. By creating lines and planes and superimposing other shapes and images over the top, an interesting effect is created that can make for some powerful designs.
These tattoos are also oftentimes difficult to interpret, making them perfect for an enigmatic character that prefers to keep people guessing about the significance of their one-of-a-kind tattoo. From mind-bending optical illusions to surreal portraits, these abstract geometric tattoos are sure to leave people scratching their heads.
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4. Framing Shape Geometric Tattoo
Framing is a key component in film and photography that relates to the organization and placement of different objects in an image. This concept is just as important in tattooing.
One interesting trend that many artists are experimenting with is incorporating geometric shapes and patterns into designs to better serve the overall composition of a piece. Instead of slapping an image onto the wearer’s arm or chest, a geometric shape is used to provide a frame that creates a more balanced design.
These shapes also provide an interesting opportunity to “bust out” of the frame, letting elements of the design break free from the frame and take the tattoo to the next level.
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5. Dotwork Geometric Tattoos
Another trend that has seen continued growth in popularity in the world of tattoos uses a meticulous application of dots and stippling to create variation in tones and shading in a piece. While this style didn’t get its start with geometric designs, it is perfectly suited for a geometric tattoo design.
When applied in conjunction with the intricate shapes and patterns of sacred geometry, this dotwork approach can create subtle gradations in tone that draw the eye up and down the entire piece and create a more compelling design than would be achievable with a different approach.
These tattoos are excellent examples of how this meticulous style of tattoo can enhance and improve geometric designs.
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6. Intergalactic Geometric Tattoo
One common way that geometric shapes and patterns have been used in tattoos is by incorporating them into cosmic and planetary designs. While many may choose to use vibrant colors in these tattoos, it is not necessary to create powerful cosmic images. In fact, some of the more interesting of these tattoos use a limited color palette.
These tattoos are also interesting for their significance; many people choose to get planets and stars tattooed to feel more connected to the vast universe. When used with a geometric pattern, especially shapes and patterns drawn from sacred geometry, this profound connection is even stronger.
As author and astrophysicist Carl Sagan famously stated, “We are made of star stuff.”
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7. Delicate Geometric Tattoos
Tattoos are powerful tools for self-expression, and because of this, different people are drawn to different designs and styles for their body art. While the bold lines and vibrant colors of American Traditional work may suit some folks, for others, a delicate approach is more in line with their personal tastes. Luckily for these people, the geometric style is perfectly suited for this understated approach.
The endless variety of shapes and patterns that can be created with geometry as inspiration means that there is a delicate tattoo design for just about everyone. These pieces utilize a variety of styles while maintaining a gentle sensibility that is perfect for those with more elegant tastes.
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What is a sacred geometry tattoo?
Many people believe that certain geometric shapes and patterns hold deep significance beyond their mundane interpretation as placeholders in mathematical formulas. In fact, some people assert that these specific shapes provide a glimpse into a higher plane — a sacred plane. The study and interpretation of these shapes are known as sacred geometry, and while this practice has seen a resurgence in popularity lately, it is an ancient tradition.
In recent years, more and more people are choosing to mark their bodies with some of these sacred geometry shapes. From the nautilus shells that perfectly demonstrate Fibonacci’s golden ratio to multi-dimensional shapes like the dodecahedron and tetrahedron, sacred geometry provides glimpses into the underlying architecture of the universe and also makes for some compelling tattoos.
What is the symbolism of a solar system tattoo?
Another common element that many people are choosing to incorporate into their tattoo designs is the solar system. Besides being instantly recognizable and providing artists plenty of opportunity for creative interpretations, solar system tattoos have some deep significance.
Many people feel that by inking these celestial bodies on their skin, they are creating a connection between themselves and the heavens. The old Alchemical phrase, “As above, so below,” is a perfect interpretation of the way that people choose to use their cosmic tattoos as a way to mirror the beauty and power of the heavens on their own bodies.
Plus, they look great!
Did you enjoy these wicked geometric tattoo designs? Click on the links below for more badass galleries featuring geometric ink interpretations:
- Top 51 Small Geometric Tattoo Ideas
- Geometric Animal Tattoo Designs
- Top 47 Geometric Sleeve Tattoo Ideas
- Metatron’s Cube Tattoo Designs
