Tattoos are becoming more and more frequent among U.S. citizens, more socially acceptable and less taboo.
One of the most interesting and unique styles of tattoo is “irezumi,” the Japanese word for tattoo. It has become an identifier for the Japanese traditional style of tattooing. This style has been utilized and become a style trademark of legendary tattoo artists such as Chris Trevino, Ed Hardy, Horiyoshi III, Chris Garver, Chris Nunez, Horitomo, Spokane shop owner Andrew Edlin and many others. Some artists also double or decide to specialize in “tebori,” a hand-poked practice of Japanese traditional style. In a documentary done by “Vice,” tattoo artist Taki stated. “With Japanese tattooing, it represents the history of a nation.”
One reason this style has become so popular may be the legends and the symbolism behind the images that comprise the style. Foo dogs, Dragons or “kiryu,” Japanese thunder god Raijin, kappa turtles, tengu masks, kirin, baku, etc. are all creatures of mythos that have their own unique legends, symbolisms and designs that cannot be replicated. Even typical animals like tigers, panthers and snakes have seen their likeness used in the style of Japanese tattooing. These creatures and designs are unique compared to other art forms, which makes it feel like the fantastical elements they portray extend to the physical ownership of the tattoo.
The reason, why these tattoos might seem so incredible, is the continued adoption of Japanese culture by American audiences. Anime, franchises like “Godzilla,” video games and fashion are all forms of entertainment or art that have Japanese origins that have been adopted by or repackaged by and for American citizens.
Another layer to the mystique of Japanese tattoos can also be the sense of “earning” them. Full Japanese sleeves or larger pieces are not easy. Even by the general standards surrounding pieces of those sizes. There were several accounts from customers on community threads on websites like Reddit and bigtattooplanet.com saying that a full Japanese sleeve took anywhere from 10-24 hours total to get done with price ranging from $1500-$6000, according to a variety of community posts.
The size and details of the “irezumi” style as well as the total time of design and application create a unique experience, even in the realm of tattooing. The infinite capabilities between the minds of a client and designer as well as when the needle meets skin offer so many avenues that have yet to be explored. “Irezumi” is only one of those avenues, but the intrigue of it makes it one of the more interesting ones that, perhaps will achieve even greater notoriety than it already has.
Teren Kowatsch can be reached at [email protected]