Top 71 Atlas Tattoo Designs Ideas – [2021 Inspiration Guide]

what exhibits more strength than atlas, the historical greek titan, who supposedly carries the weight of the entire earth on his shoulders? Atlas tattoos signify endurance, perseverance, and determination.

A classic tale and a timeless myth in its own right, the tale of the atlas doomed to hold up the sky for all eternity evokes primal images of power in the face of enduring adversity.

atlas, the mythological and primordial being, was the leader of the titans who fought against the gods of olympus. Directly related to the name “atlas” is our knowledge of astronomy. An atlas, of course, is aptly named as it refers to a book of maps and embodies the study of cartography and learning. The atlas also reminds us of the “supposed” first discovery that the earth was round, channeling the spirit of enlightenment.

even the atlantic ocean literally means the “sea of ​​atlas”. Iconic images from the atlas can be seen around the world, most notably as a giant statue at Rockefeller Center.

perhaps you are a fan of “atlas shrugged”, the classic novel by the famous ayn rand. maybe you are a world traveler, an adventurer, who is not afraid to take risks. Consider getting an atlas tattoo that showcases the globe and highlights the shape of your favorite continent. perhaps you can emphasize the country of origin of your ancestors or idealize a place you want to travel to one day.

1. black and gray atlas tattoos

The widest variety of atlas tattoos come in black and grey, which is not surprising considering the old world nature of the symbology of having a Greek titan etched into a tattoo. Like a classic movie, some works of art look better without the pizzazz. If you consider yourself a classicist (or want your atlas tattoo to be at least classic), then black and gray are a great choice.

In practical terms, black and gray tattoos are a great investment, as they are likely to stand out for years to come. achieving a great black and gray look requires a skilled artist. look for an artist who can achieve depth and shadow with a variety of grayscale shades. some artists also blend with a white white ink highlighter which can achieve a standout finishing touch.

2. back and shoulder atlas tattoos

The back and shoulder areas are the largest and cleanest canvases tattoo artists have at their disposal. that makes them perfect for a really big piece, or even a combination of smaller pieces. the world is at your fingertips with this area and there is no limit to what your creativity can achieve with the appropriate concept.

Symbolically, the back is also a great option for an atlas tattoo. carry on your back and on your shoulders the man who holds on his back and on your shoulders the whole sky. Another reason for the popularity of atlas back tattoos is that you can go far or wide and make a serious statement that can still remain hidden in your everyday life.

3. world map tattoo

The Greek Titan Atlas lends its name to our word for a collection of maps. therefore, it would be remiss to exclude atlas map tattoos from our calculation when searching for the perfect atlas-inspired body art piece. Maps, particularly maps covering the world, are a powerful symbol for the modern mind. they represent adventure, possibility, both the known and the unknown.

An atlas map tattoo is a great way to pay permanent tribute to the adventurers and map makers of the past, those rogues of centuries past who explored unknown territories and helped build the world. equally, it can help you reconnect with your previous travels or simply with your desire to be a citizen of the world.

4. atlas sleeve tattoos

Until the 1990s, it was very unusual to see a full manga in the west. almost overnight they exploded into the mainstream. at first they were rock stars and other counterculture denizens wearing the traditional Japanese yakuza-style irezumi.

although they were taboo in japan, they were almost unknown in the west at the time. their stunning beauty and sense of whimsy propelled them into the limelight in combination with technological and artistic advancements in the industry at large.

Traditionally, American arm tattoos were not mixed together as one piece, but placed as individual tattoos. very soon this changed. Over the past two decades, a beautifully matched full, half, or quarter sleeve has become a staple of any quality tattoo artist’s work.

An atlas sleeve tattoo can function as the centerpiece of a piece, or even as part of a Greek tattoo with a traditional and mythological theme. A particularly well-shaded black and gray atlas cover can be incredibly detailed, drawing attention to some intricate art in an age of colorful covers.

5. traditional religious art style atlas tattoos

There are no more revered artists in history than those famous names of the Renaissance and those later masters who painted religious classics, such as: Michelangelo and the Sistine Chapel, Raphael and the Transfiguration, Leonardo da Vinci and the Last Supper… why not? you and your atlas tattoo?

This classic and timeless style is well suited to atlas renderings and often invokes the same feelings of awe at a museum filled with great works. For those contemplating their religious style atlas tattoo, they can make an immediate connection between the symbolism and the classic style. the traditional style is a great option for those who want to convey great meaning and reverence in their tattoo.

6. innovative atlas tattoos

The history of tattooing is the history of tradition + innovation with a broad respect that goes both ways. there is a great opportunity to combine styles with atlases. it can be depicted in its traditional form but outlined and highlighted with bright colors in a neo-traditional style or even rendered entirely in watercolour. it can be deepened in a minimalist, geometric or even cartoon format. can be created through negative space or dotwork. It can even be reimagined in the traditional American Sailor Jerry style.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to atlas tattoos, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find out which style works best for you.

atlas tattoo frequently asked questions

What do atlas tattoos symbolize?

In its simplest form, the atlas that holds the world symbolizes superhuman strength and endurance, an indefatigable nature, and the ability to continue under any circumstances. this tattoo may be there to inspire you to carry on with what may seem like the most impossible burden, to dig in and find the strength within.

or it can symbolize your journey across the earth, making your way through anything and never, as the famous novel suggests, trying to shrug off those burdens, to avoid the hard way.

tangentially we also take our name from the titan for a collection of maps. the atlas in that sense can symbolize the way, the trip, the adventure or all knowledge of the known world.

Ultimately, you can find your own meaning in the symbology of the atlas and how its story resonates with you.

Are you enjoying these atlas tattoos? Click the links below to see more prominent Greek Mythology themed galleries:

• the 59 best ideas about Greek mythology
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