Salmon Tattoo Photo #7448

The fish that fights upstream through rapids and waterfalls to complete its life cycle has become a universal symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and returning to one's roots. Pacific Northwest Coast art and Celtic mythology both elevate the salmon to sacred status.

Blackwork tattoos use solid black ink in bold, graphic compositions. The style ranges from large filled areas and heavy patterns to intricate designs that rely on contrast between ink and bare skin.

The back provides the largest continuous canvas on the body, ideal for detailed scenes and large-scale compositions. Upper back pieces are easy to conceal, while full-back tattoos make a dramatic statement.