30 beautiful blackwork tattoos that make a bold statement

Playing with that negative space.
 By 
Andrea Romano
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Minimal tattoos are so 2015.

Tattoos come in all shapes, sizes and colors, but sometimes a bold, black block of ink can make an even bolder statement than even the prettiest, full-color tattoos.


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One daring (and probably time consuming) style is the blackwork tattoo -- a technique that covers the skin completely with thick, black ink. While it's not a new trend by any means, it's certainly eye-catching.

The beautifully simple and yet intricate style is actually influenced by tribal tattoos, mixed with graphic design, and has been a widely used technique in tattoo parlors for decades. Many artists like to show off their stunning works on Instagram.


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Topics Instagram

Mashable Image
Andrea Romano

Andrea Romano -- comedy writer, craft enthusiast, lady -- was a Watercooler Reporter. She worked as an intern at Mashable beginning in January 2014. Andrea recently completed her Masters degree in Media Studies and Film from The New School and writes sketch comedy at Upright Citizens Brigade and The People's Improv Theatre. She once watched three Paul Rudd movies in a row on a bicoastal flight and didn't realize it until she landed. She does things like that a lot. Twitter: @theandrearomano

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