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# Abstract Airbrush Tattoos
These Tattoos Adopt an Intriuginlgly Realistic Abstract Art Style

By David Ingram | Published 2015-10-16 | Updated 2015-10-18 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/realistic-abstract
References: [designtaxi](http://designtaxi.com/news/380841/Charming-Airbrush-Like-Tattoos-Created-With-Squiggly-Fluid-Lines/) & [buzzfeed](http://www.buzzfeed.com/chickabiddybex/17-pictures-that-are-guaranteed-to-make-you-want-a-dl5i)

Tattoo artist Matt Barratt-Jones has been practicing his craft since 2005, and in the process of perfecting his style, he has adopted an intriguingly realistic abstract art approach.

Also going by the name 'Oddboy,' this skilled tattoo professional has actually adopted his own distinctive style that he has coined as 'squigglism.' The artist's approach consists of starting with a series of black "squiggly" lines that fluidly form a picture or portrait. These drawings are then filled in with color to form realistic abstract illustrations that take on an almost airbrushed appearance.

Many of the tattoos done by this artist feature realistic yet abstract takes on a number of different wild animals. Creatures like foxes, wolves, rhinos and seahorses are inked onto human skin in stunning and unique detail distinctive of this artist's talent.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 6.4/10
- Popularity: 95% | Activity: 88% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Realistic Abstract Tattoos:** Tattoo artists can adopt a realistic abstract approach to their tattoos, using fluid squiggly lines to create intricate designs and animal portraits.
- **Squigglism:** The 'squigglism' style of tattooing can be cultivated by artists, starting with a series of black 'squiggly' lines and filling in with color to create stunning illustrations with an almost airbrushed appearance.
- **Wildlife Tattoos:** Intricate and unique wildlife tattoos, featuring stylized yet realistic depictions of animals like foxes, wolves, rhinos, and seahorses, may become more popular as tattoo artists adopt the realistic abstract approach.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Tattoo Industry:** Tattoo artists and businesses in the tattoo industry can explore adopting the realistic abstract approach and 'squigglism' style to offer unique and stunning tattoo designs to their clients.
- **Art and Design:** Artists and designers can incorporate the realistic abstract approach and 'squigglism' style into their work, creating stunning and intricate illustrations and designs in a variety of mediums beyond tattoos.
- **Wildlife Conservation:** Wildlife conservation organizations and businesses may employ the realistic abstract approach and 'squigglism' style in their marketing materials and merchandise to promote awareness and appreciation for wild animals.

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