Criminals Tattoo Photo #16307

Symbols and markings developed as ways to communicate identity, rank, and personal history within closed communities where other forms of communication were limited. What makes these tattoos complex is that meanings shift across regions, eras, and social groups-a symbol that means one thing in Russian prisons may mean something entirely different in American gang culture or Japanese yakuza tradition.

By placing thousands of tiny dots at controlled spacing, dotwork artists achieve smooth gradients and intricate patterns. This labor-intensive method gives tattoos a unique texture that stands apart from traditional line-based work.

The ribcage offers a private placement that only shows when the wearer chooses. Its curved surface adds dimension to designs, though the area is known for being one of the more sensitive spots to tattoo.