New School Tattooing: Bold, Colorful, and Cartoonish
New School tattooing is a style that has been around for decades and has evolved into one of the most popular and recognizable forms of tattooing today.
With bold outlines, vivid color palettes, and exaggerated subject matter, New School tattoos are known for their cartoonish and often surreal designs.
Originating in the late 1970s and early 1980s on the West Coast, California tattooers experimented with designs that incorporated celebrities, cartoon characters, and science fiction favorites.
One of the earliest pioneers of the style is Marcus Pacheco of the San Francisco Bay Area, who helped to solidify the style.
The New School style came into its own during the 1990s and soon became one of the biggest tattoo trends of the decade.
Today, the style has evolved to include many subgenres and it continues to be a staple of tattooing throughout the Western world.
Some of the most prominent New School artists include Joe Capobianco, best known for revolutionizing pin-ups within the style, as well as Jime Litwalker, Jesse Smith, and Cleen Rock One.
These industry icons are still relevant in the New School world, but a host of tattooers are continuing to push the boundaries for the cartoonish style and have become the next household names.
Kelly Doty is one of these artists, who you may recognize from season 7 of Ink Master. She continuously produces imagery that pushes the bounds of our furthest imaginations.
Her designs often feature dark and macabre themes with a touch of whimsy, making her a popular choice for those seeking out unique and creative tattoos.
Another artist who has gained a reputation in the New School world is Josh Peacock.
His designs are a hybrid of a 90s flash page and a dentist’s fantasies, featuring vibrant colors and bold lines.
His work often features bizarre characters and creatures, making him a popular choice for those looking for something out of the ordinary.
Steven Compton is another New School tattooer who has gained a following for his psychedelic cartoons.
He has spent the last year fighting a battle with cancer but continues to create incredible and inspiring designs.
These are just a few of the incredibly talented New School tattooers killing the game in 2018. Other notable artists include Alex Strangler, David Cote, and Timmy B.
If you’re looking to get a New School tattoo, it’s important to find an artist who specializes in the style and has a portfolio that showcases their skills.
The New School style can be challenging to execute, and it’s important to find an artist who can bring your vision to life while maintaining the integrity of the style.
Overall, New School tattooing is a style that celebrates boldness, creativity, and a love for all things whimsical and surreal.
With talented artists pushing the boundaries of the style, it’s clear that New School tattooing will continue to evolve and captivate audiences for years to come.