65 Dark Gothic Tattoo Ideas Elevating The Meaning Of Darkness And Death
The world of tattoos is one full of surprises, carrying an endless amount of options that tend to target different parts of life as well as the brain. However, even amongst the limitless options are some that abide by certain rules; one of which is the world of gothic tattoos.
With a profound love for darkness and neutral hues, gothic tattoos are some of the most successful body modifications to exist today. Their positive reception not only is shaped by their openness to various kinds of artwork, but also its affiliates underneath.
To learn all about them, however, give this guide on gothic tattoos a much-needed read.
The Ambiguous Meaning Behind Gothic Tattoos
@quindaytattoos
Gothic tattoos were made to initially pay homage to classical goth art, emerging all the way back in the 17th century.
However, as the centuries passed by, goth tattoos also found a home in its own subculture, kick-starting in the late 70s, led by music, art, and literature associated with darkness.
These days, gothic tattoos not only symbolize the former, but also form ties with strong feelings of pain, the existence of death, and the circle of life, being a Jack of all trades in the world of tattoos.
Jarring Designs For Gothic Tattoos With Intimidating Aura
@vincentnox
Thanks to its association to darkness, death, and everything in between, the world of goth tattoos is one with various options, relieving one from picking their brains for a prominent and unbeatable design.
From depictions that exercise one’s faith to stencils that make goths feel at home, tons of entries make up the list of best designs for gothic tattoos. To learn about them all, give the following pieces a look!
Gothic Cross Tattoo: Devotion To Religion
@blind_nobility
Despite being misunderstood as rebels amongst society, goths commit to a series of positives; one of which is religion.
Since being goth doesn’t necessarily mean you have to avoid religion, one can always count on a gothic Cross tattoo, the most prominent goth tattoo to exist in the world of art.
The minimalism of the Cross tattoo appears to be the perfect companion to the deep neutral shade of black on the outside, and comes in various forms to make it easy for any potential lead.
Gothic Raven Tattoo: An Instant Hit In The Dark Underworld
@katartandtattoos
With death being regarded as a keen interest amongst the gothic subculture, their fondness towards ravens comes off as no surprise.
In the world of art, ravens are associated with death and the inevitability of it, instantly aligning with the dark theme that goths aim for.
The artwork ranges between medium-sized pieces and large depictions, with the bicep being the most prominent canvas for this goth tattoo.
Gothic Architecture Tattoo: A Depiction With A Thousand Doors
@hollyhawk.ink
With high ceilings and pointy surfaces, gothic architecture tattoos demand attention the instant that they’re created. While the deep shade of black further allows the artwork to stand out, the meaning behind the depiction appears to be just as noteworthy.
Forming ties with religion, individuality, and the history of classical art, the symbolism of a gothic architecture tattoo appears to be an all-rounder.
Nonetheless, cathedrals are often adopted into the artwork, due to their ties with religion and death.
Gothic Hand Tattoo: No Pain, No Gain
@noahpentz.tattoos
It's not that people involved in the gothic subculture enjoy pain, but the fact that they accept it as a part of life that makes them so reciprocative to it.
The same reason can be used to justify their interest in tattoos that inflict pain, one of which is a hand tattoo.
Goth hand tattoos depict cathedrals and large depictions, in spite of involving a sensitive area. Alternatives involve symbols associated with the movement.
Gothic Bat Tattoo: Two Sides Of The Same Coin
@ophelia.tattoo
Due to being in its element at night and having an eerie aura about itself, the nature of a bat pairs rather well with the gothic subculture, making them instant hits in the art scene.
Gothic bat tattoos are perceived as a win-win scenario for enthusiasts, as it carries the mannerisms as well as the visuals for the aesthetic.
The forearm is the leading pick for the canvas. However, one can also aim for secluded areas for their appeal.
Gothic Castle Tattoo: For Creative Minds
@slumbabe
Similar to gothic architecture tattoos, the gothic castle pins its focus on just the creative aspect of the structure of the building on the depiction.
However, while gothic architecture tattoos make space for anything, a gothic castle tattoo stays loyal to one kind only.
In addition to commemorating the significance of castles among the movement, a gothic castle tattoo also reflects on one's loyalty.
Gothic Font Tattoo: A Simple Way To Crack The Code
@edissontattoos
Despite having artwork that mostly cater to maximalists, there are also a handful of gothic tattoos that keep it light on the stencil, being easier to tolerate for the skin.
One of them appears to be a gothic font tattoo, which, similar to how it sounds, only needs a font to be mirrored.
Although most tattoos under this sub-category carry basic visuals, they pair well with other candidates, from a compilation of thigh tattoos to emblems connected to the gothic culture.
Gothic Tattoo On Neck: Exercising Your Tolerance
@goorazz
For Pain Big on putting themselves out there, regions that comply with the former nature are also top picks for gothic tattoos. Among them, however, a neck tattoo remains superior.
A gothic neck tattoo can come in a range of forms, from barbed wires to blackwork pieces. It ranks high on a pain-level.
The center of the neck is a common pick, while a side neck tattoo speaks more to men.
Gothic Flower Tattoo: One Pattern; Multiple Depictions
@connorryantattoo
The world of floral patterns contributes to gothic tattoos in a great way from a metaphorical standpoint, especially when including species that contribute to death and darkness.
Gothic flower tattoos benefit mostly from carnations, white lilies and orchids, mainly due to their association with the afterlife.
Nonetheless, taking the crown amongst this flower tattoo is the rose, which has an edge over the former contenders with its metaphorical and artistic potential.
Gothic Heart Tattoo: Finding Light In Darkness
@darkiztlght
You don’t always have to entertain feelings of darkness with a gothic tattoo. In fact, even some entries don’t abide by guidelines set by the movement.
A prime example is a gothic heart tattoo, which, above all, saves its energy for love in all forms.
Whether it’s depicted for an individual or for the fondness you have towards the unity found in the gothic subculture, it’s safe to say that this entry contains enough flexibility to carry out them all.
Gothic Coffin Tattoo: Practicing Gratitude And Staying Humble
@flacasplacas
With a direct portal to death and the afterlife, coffins are perceived as compelling candidates among gothic tattoos.
In addition to exercising the love one has for darkness, pain, and the end of life, coffin tattoos, even gothic ones, have a way to make users more humble and appreciative of life.
While the stencil of a coffin should suffice, those with a low tolerance to pain can also consider the nails of a coffin for a metaphorically powerful artwork.
Gothic Fairy Tattoo: Ideal Sidekicks For Vulnerable Times
@one12tattoo
Fairies are seen as ideal companions for support, even in the eyes of goths.
In fact, the guidance they provide during vulnerable periods make fairies prominent figures within the subculture, contributing to their success in the world of gothic art.
Comprising portraits, gothic fairy tattoos lead the way with notes of realism. The detailing inside the frame looks more noticeable thanks to the neutral shades.
Gothic Tattoo On Chest: Exposing Your Truest Intentions
@buffbabei.nk
Wearing your heart on your sleeve is an expression which elevates to unimaginable levels with the help of gothic tattoos, thanks to the existence of chest tattoos.
When worn on the chest, gothic tattoos not only associate themselves with a strong sense of individuality and self-expression, but create a strong impression in social settings.
Frugal pieces are definitely compatible with this concept. However, sizable pieces seem more appropriate.
Gothic Traditional Tattoo: Same Same, But Different
@oldschoolbacktattoo
The size of traditional tattoos fused with gothic themes remain just as large. However, instead of adding vibrant colors, these depictions double up on the concentration of the neutral shades used.
Just like traditional tattoos, gothic traditional tattoos consider the stencil of any emblem, just as long as they abide by the color requirements.
Gothic Window Tattoo: A Supporting Figure
@kyliejames_tattoo
Another entry that explores the gothic subculture and their fondness for classical art is the gothic window tattoo, which is often obtained in awe of their visuals.
Seen as minimal pieces, this window tattoo also finds a way to form collaborations, particularly with cathedrals and depictions focusing on architecture.
The placement, however, remains open, with the forearm being seen as the most functional area.
Gothic Church Tattoo: Another Way Of Practicing Faith
@beccajonesart
Similar to cathedrals and Crosses, many adopt churches for their gothic tattoo, associated with Christianity, faith, among others.
Just like architecture tattoos, church tattoos require tons of space, finding a solid companion in larger canvases.
A solid way to make things easier would be to add verses related to the Bible, as it will increase the sentiments behind it. Adding a Cross tattoo might also help with obtaining the former goal.
Gothic Skull Tattoo: A Gift For The Subculture
@kyliejames_tattoo
Apart from bats, moths, and roses, a skull tattoo fits the emblems required for goth tattoos, associated with the inevitability of death.
The visuals are far more intimidating, however, in spite of being compact from a structural standpoint.
This gothic tattoo is also one of the most versatile pieces, pairing well with emblems that depict religion, wisdom, stoicism, and so on.
Gothic Tribal Tattoo: Staying United With Your Day Ones
@electric_tattoos
Even goths resonate with trust and loyalty when depicting tattoos, which is evident in their keen interest towards tribal pieces.
Although hefty and long, these tribal pieces appear to have a sharper outlook due to the amount of ink used for the coloring.
While areas such as the neck, ribs, and the foot are great ways to be one with the pain levels of this tattoo, the requirements on the size remain open to interpretation.
Gothic Cat Tattoo: An Intimidating Way To Depict Mystery
@elson_tafaart
In addition to being smart, cats are creatures that goths tend to relate to due to their profound connection towards being mysterious.
As opposed to regular cat tattoos, however, the gothic versions look more vile and ferocious, dripping in charcoal black for an intimidating effect.
Portraits can be placed on the arm for the size they contain. On the other hand, larger depictions tend to find the perfect home on the surface of the thigh.
Gothic Dragon Tattoo: Amping Up Mythical Legends
@mishbae
Many urban legends and mythical creatures tend to benefit from the aesthetic used by goths, with the most prominent one being a dragon.
When all is said and done, a gothic dragon tattoo is an excellent way to learn more about wisdom and kindness, that too with a design that enhances the physical appeal.
Just like the larger entries on this list, this tattoo requires time and space. Therefore, be sure to clear up your schedule accordingly.
Gothic Frame Tattoo: Creating Your Own Canvas
@lunar.pokes
Creative freedom can easily be found even within a pre-existing design if you’re clever enough.
That said, if you want the artwork to feature gothic mannerisms still, try setting your sights for a frame tattoo. With maze-like silhouettes and a gap in the middle, a gothic frame tattoo provides the perfect spot for another artwork to be the protagonist of the plot.
To do it justice, incorporate a tattoo that aligns with the mantra of the frame.
Gothic Knight Tattoo: The Black Sheep With Potential
@tony_caropino
The black sheep amongst this list is definitely the gothic knight tattoo, often worn as a clever way for one to express their obsession for death.
While the shields and armour reflect well on the visuals of the artwork, adding minor pieces like a sword can be a good way to pin more focus on the details.
Picking a canvas that aligns with your pain tolerance should suffice, as long as the artwork can fit convincingly.
Gothic Moon Tattoo: A Double Entendre For Dusk
@blvckmoon_tattoo
Just like bats, the moon resonates towards darkness, being a great fit for goths.
Furthermore, due to its open-minded association, moon tattoos can form a pair with anything, enabling a compilation of gothic tattoos to come to life.
The best thing is to indeed add depictions of skulls, ornaments, and cats to the artwork, especially if looking good is a part of your criterion.
Gothic Ornamental Tattoo: Instant Gratification For Materialism
@creepycrawlertattoo
Just like frame tattoos, ornament tattoos, when depicted with gothic aesthetics, appear to look good without requiring much effort.
Used as an enhancer for one's physical appearance, the tattoo fits best when wrapped around the neck, or the ankle.
Just the ornament can work wonders for this tattoo. However, if you'd like, you may even add accessories and stones to complement the design.
Gothic Voodoo Doll Tattoo: The Darkside Of A Wholesome Movement
@pinkthorntattoo
On this list, the most controversial entry by far is the gothic voodoo doll tattoo, which encourages black magic and bad omen.
Nonetheless, many also pursue it due to how dark they look, especially when impaled with a nail.
Adding shadows around the frame is a good way to bring more light to the facial features of this gothic voodoo doll, which finds tons of views when worn on the wrist.
Gothic Face Tattoo: Taking A Gamble
@romancetattoos
Gothic Gargoyle Tattoo: A Reality Check For Many
@cheffytatts
Gothic Horror Tattoo: Ode To Graphic Cinema
@hadesgravetattoos
Gothic Sword Tattoo: Minimal, Yet Impactful
@jadinjoytattoo
Gothic Tree Tattoo: Finding Growth In Hardship
@poison.well
Gothic Hello Kitty Tattoo
@princecharm.ink
Gothic Mermaid Tattoo: A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing
@brandon_tyr_art
Gothic Pinup Tattoo: Empowering Women Irrespective Of Color
@vicalvxrez
Gothic Spider Web Tattoo: Selling Your Soul To The Devil
@perturbed_tattoos
Gothic Sun Tattoo: In An Alternate Universe
@wrendragon
Gothic Thorn Vine Tattoo: Every Curse Is A Lesson
@studio13tattoosalem
Gothic Unicorn Tattoo: Rising Above Mediocrity
@gregashcraft
Frequently Asked Question
Gothic tattoos are quite self-explanatory and require very little effort to pull off correctly. Nonetheless, if you need some more guidance, try and find it in the questionnaire placed below.
Q: Which area is best for portraying a gothic tattoo?
Ans: Gothic tattoos look best almost anywhere. And while the size of your depiction should determine the location, the best areas are often the most painful ones, such as the neck, finger, hand, and rib cage.
Q: Are gothic tattoos evil?
Ans: Even after forming ties with darkness, gothic tattoos aren't exactly labelled as evil, since it promotes a subculture that appreciates neutral shades, not practices that are detrimental to life.
Q: Do gothic tattoos require frequent touch ups?
Ans: While blackwork tattoos avoid frequent touch ups with ease, the same can't be said about gothic tattoos. This is because, just like traditional tattoos, gothic tattoos contain tons of coloring, which requires regular upkeep to remain vibrant.
Final Verdict
Gothic tattoos have existed and dominated the world of art for quite some time, being extremely relatable for individuals that gravitate towards darkness, pain, and apathy.
Their edgy aesthetic and mannerisms tend to enhance even the plainest illustrations, which explains why many form a partnership with gothic tattoos in spite of how they're portrayed by the society.
When all is said and done, gothic tattoos age well, come in various sizes, and don't limit an individual with a series of restrictions, making them remarkable as tattoos.