The subject of mermaid tattoo design has its roots firmly planted in the traditional tattoos of sailors and seamen from the past. But far from being restricted to American traditional tattoo inspiration, more people are using mermaids to express themselves in body art.

Mermaids are powerful symbols of femininity, the ocean, and transformation and change.

There’s now a variety of styles and technical application ranging from Disney versions of childhood through to macabre depictions of the mermaid that are downright scary. The meanings for each tattoo differ with their interpretation, as do their tattoo style.

The following amazing tattoos demonstrate just how exciting and versatile these mythical creatures can be for an artist to design. Read on for awesome mermaid ink inspiration for your next tattoo.

1. American/Neo Traditional Tattoo Inspiration

Source: @amandine_mamou via Instagram

Applied using precise lines and exceptional shading in the mermaids’ scales and tail fins, this clean piece is a great example of a neo-traditional mermaid tattoo that does not suffer from a lack of color. 

Source: @2bitsmashisttattoos via Instagram

Another excellent neo-traditional piece, this tattoo uses a compelling color scheme that is heavy on reds and black and an interesting composition to create a tattoo that is reminiscent of Art Nouveau prints.

Source: @carrie_tattoos via Instagram

This neo-traditional piece uses the bold lines and vibrant colors of American traditional work and applies them to a more illustrative interpretation of a mermaid that could come straight out of a childhood cartoon. 

Source: @elixirtattoo_corbetta via Instagram

A classic American traditional piece, this tattoo brings several design elements typical of the style, including an anchor, sunset, ship rigging and “Hold Fast”, to create an interesting ode to the sea that is a great example of the style.