Tribal tattoos are ancient forms of body art that originate from indigenous cultures across the world. These tattoos bear immense cultural and spiritual significance, often representing heritage, rituals, and stories within a community. Tribal tattoo designs typically consist of bold, black lines and geometric patterns, creating intricate and visually striking compositions.

Absolutely. In contemporary tattoo art, tribal designs have transcended cultural boundaries and are appreciated for their artistic value. However, it's essential to approach these designs with respect and understanding. Research the specific tribe or culture you are drawing inspiration from, ensuring you are aware of the meanings associated with the design. This approach honors the cultural roots of the tattoo and promotes cultural appreciation and integrity.

Traditionally, tribal tattoos are done in black ink to create bold and striking patterns. However, modern interpretations may incorporate colored elements or shading techniques to add depth and visual appeal. 

If you're looking to get a personalised tribal tattoo, fill out the online form or simply walk in to our RIchmond tattoo parlour. 

Humans have been permanently marking their skin for millennia – in fact, tattoos have been discovered on preserved bodies from as far back as 3250BC. From therapeutic healing markings to symbols that denoted tribes, across the world we can see that tattooing has a great, rich history. Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms created by humanity – alongside cave paintings and pottery.

Aboriginal Tribal Tattoos

Local tribal style tattoos can be found by looking at Aboriginal artwork. Using stylised symbols, animals, dots and natural colours, the Aboriginal tribal art is all about connecting man to nature.

Aboriginal tribal designs are passed down from ancestors, and sometimes a design is so specific it is only allowed to be created by a single artist.

Tattoos in Aboriginal styles are used in ceremonies and rituals, as well as within tribes themselves.

Native American Tribal Tattoos

Like many tribal tattoos, these markings are used to distinguish tribes, give social status and commemorate battles. However, in the Native American culture, they were used to give the bearer supernatural powers and allow them into the afterlife.

Created traditionally using sharpened bones from turtles and fish, the Native American tribal tattoos feature totem-style pictograms of animals and natural objects. They use deep, think lines and bold colours.

Polynesian Tribal Tattoos

Polynesian tribal tattoos are probably what you think of when someone mentions a tribal tattoo. Known for swathes of black, lines, dots, swirls and abstract motifs, Polynesian tribal tattoos not only denote clan affiliation and location, but they are also used in rituals like rites of passage. Whether symbolising wartime accomplishments or the personality of the bearer, each motif used has a specific meaning to the Polynesian people.

If you are looking for expert help regarding your tattoo idea, then Good Luck Tattoo are here to help.

We offer a free design consultation service, and we will happily help you with every aspect of choosing your perfect tattoo – whether it is a small flash tattoo chosen from the hundreds available, or an intricate, personally designed back piece.

If you are looking to get tattooed by us at Good Luck Tattoo, please remember that you must be 18 or over (ID will be required on booking) and we do not accept parental consent for those under 18.

We will not tattoo you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and if you have any medical issues be sure to discuss these with your artist (especially if you have a blood-borne illness).

When you have had your design consultation and you decide to go ahead, we will book your appointment for you. We require a $100 deposit for all tattoos, payable at time of booking. If you need to change your appointment, deposits can be transferred if we have 48 hours’ notice. If you do not wish to book in, we also accept walk ins to our Melbourne Tattoo parlour, so swing by and let’s chat!

Come and see us today to find your perfect tribal tattoo, right here in Melbourne.