The World Atlas of Tattoo

An illustrated exploration of the diversity of styles and the greatest tattoo artists from ancient times to the present day. The art and practice of tattooing has undergone a radical transformation in the 21st century, as its popularity has grown exponentially. More and more tattoo artists are rediscovering lost traditions while at the same time innovating their work. A vast variety of styles, genres, and techniques have emerged, from geometric blackwork to vibrant, painterly styles, from hand-drawn to machine-drawn.

With over 700 stunning illustrations, this book explores the historical and contemporary practices of tattooing in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Each chapter, dedicated to a specific geographical region, features engaging narratives from tattoo experts who explore the history and traditions of that region, as well as contemporary styles and trends. The World Tattoo Atlas also traces the development of styles from their indigenous environments to diasporic communities, where they are often transformed into creative, multicultural designs.