Introduced to the world by Swiss artist H.R. Geiger in the sci-fi blockbusters Alien, today biomechanical tattoos for men have captured the imaginations of artists worldwide and have become their own sub-genre.

Blending anatomy and natural physiology with mechanical design elements, some truly fascinating — and sometimes terrifying — art has been created in this style. 

While the style can work well in just about any placement, some of the most impressive biomechanical tattoos incorporate the body’s own anatomy into the design. The shoulder, elbow, and knee all provide ample opportunities to create breathtaking tattoos that blur the line between man and machine. 

The work in this collection shows off just how impressive and mind-bending biomechanical tattoos can be in the hands of talented artists. 

1. Biomechanical Tattoo Drawing

Just about every tattoo starts life as ink on paper, and biomechanical tattoo drawings are no different. When looking for inspiration for your biotech tattoo, checking out an artist’s flash sheets for examples of their work is a great place to start.

2. Biomechanical Skull Tattoo

The skull is the most instantly recognizable bone in the body and has been the subject of tattoos for decades. When blending the machines with anatomy, it makes sense that biomechanical skull tattoos make for some unique and eye-catching designs.

3. Stencil Biomechanical Tattoo

In the tattoo process, a design begins as a drawing and is then turned into a stencil. Once a stencil is completed, the artist finds the perfect placement, transfers the design, and creates a biomechanical stencil tattoo.

4. Organic Biomechanical Tattoo

Biomechanical blends anatomy and machinery, although the style covers a spectrum of styles. More organic biomechanical tattoos can be produced by incorporating more natural design elements and sparsely using mechanical parts that blur the line between man and machine.