Samoan Tattoo Photo #13594

Known as tatau, the practice carries deep cultural meaning tied to identity, rank, and community service. The bold geometric patterns and rituals surrounding the process set Samoan ink apart from every other tattoo style.

Sketch-style tattoos replicate the look of pencil or pen drawings, often including visible construction lines and loose strokes. The intentionally unfinished quality gives the design an artistic, work-in-progress feel.

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.