Beneath the Skin: Exploring the Allure of Death-Themed Tattoos

Can you see yourself booking an appointment at a tattoo studio to get a tattoo? If so, what would make you decide to do so? If not, why not? 

Tattoos have a long history that dates back to Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy with 61 tattoos discovered on his body which are considered to be the oldest in the world. These tattoos are known to possibly be applied to acupuncture points. Whereas this ancient practice highlights the enduring power of tattooing as an art form, transcending time and cultures. 

As a result, this generation is more open to the idea of getting tattoos and those with tattoos face fewer concerns. The notion that tattoos are morbid and dark is replaced as tattoos are seen as expressions of culture, identity, and individuality. 

Today, Maria Oggay, known as Apo Whang-Od, exemplifies the art’s enduring legacy.  This 107-year-old Filipino tattoo icon from Buscalan Village in Kalinga, though not exclusively recognized for death-themed tattoos, has achieved global recognition for her skill, featured on prominent and internationally-acclaimed media outlets such as Discovery Channel and Vogue Magazine.

Death-themed tattoos created a buzz that deals with the concept of mortality, acknowledging its fragility, and encouraging one to seize every moment of their life. These motifs are, for some, representations of the finesse that comes with getting past the hardships of life while others to honor loved ones and preserve memories.

Symbolism and meaning

Oftentimes, certain figures come to mind when discussing tattoos as an art. Some of these include the Grim Reaper, a cloaked skeleton often depicted with a scythe symbolizing the harvesting of life and the passage of time. Skulls are also a common choice, representing death, temporality, and can also symbolize strength, survival, a rebellious spirit, and a desire to live life to the fullest. Frequently intertwined with these are floral motifs which highlight the duality of life and death; of beauty existing even within mortality. Darker imagery, such as ravens, coffins, and withered roses, offers an opportunity for artistic expression within this macabre theme.

In addition to forms and patterns, there are also popular phrases like ‘memento mori,’ a Latin phrase which means “remember that you will die” and serves as a poignant reminder to live intentionally and seize each moment. While these tattoos convey a deeply personal meaning, some individuals may opt to get them simply because they find them aesthetically striking.

A young artist's perspective

Bea Delos Reyes, a 20-year-old fine arts student from Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, recently opened her own tattoo business—brnca.ink located in Mandaluyong City. Her journey into this art form began with the influence of revered Apo Whang-Od and the traditional Kalinga Batok tattooing. She was drawn to the art form because of its historical significance and the way it challenged the societal stigma once associated with tattoos, particularly for women.

Bea's work reflects this fascination with death-themed tattoos. For instance, she created a ghost or clown design inspired by Betty Boop, an animated cartoon character who was popular for being seductive and flirtatious in nature,  for a client. 

Describing the experience, she proudly stated, "It was a pleasant experience. I love Betty Boop, and it's a short connection with my client. He adores that character in a profound, personal way and he entrusted me to embed that to his skin. I was honored. It's his first tattoo.”

Bea’s passion for tattooing goes beyond being just an artist. She loves the permanence of her work, defining it as a beautiful and lasting tribute to her craft. She believes that to become a master in this difficult field requires not just talent but also perseverance. One must practice, be disciplined, and fully committed. 

"The process, the depth and technicality of it, my art is on their skin forever so I make sure to do my best in each and everyone. Perfection seems unattainable but in tattoos it needs to be. Practice, discipline, and the drive for success is the solution to every skill mastery. With it you can do everything,” Bea stated in an interview with 4079 Magazine.

On societal stigma and current perspectives

Death-themed tattoos carry deep symbolism and meaning, but they still face societal discrimination and stereotyping even up to this day. Many still see them as morbid, dark, or disrespectful. However, these are beyond just designs as it reflects the personal beliefs and unique life experiences of those who adorn them. In a way, they preserve these memories, transcending beyond the boundaries of ‘just an art’ into something that is much more meaningful. 

Bea pointed out the changing attitudes towards tattoos in society. "How tattoos were deemed beautiful, more than beaded jewelry that is. To the fact that uninked women were discriminated against—far from the colonized mindset of prejudice against tattoos now. Tattoos, an art embedded in the skin.”

Dark tattoos are becoming more popular as society becomes more inclusive to different art forms and is now open for a conversation discussing mortality. These tattoos are no longer just seen the way they seem or are forbidden symbols; rather, they have transformed into powerful expressions of individuality and a celebration of life's value.

They may go against the usual societal expectations, but the majority has moved past dictating on what others can do to their bodies or how they must present themselves.

Symbols like shadows, skulls, and scythes represent not only death but also transformation and remembrance. Beneath our skin, these tattoos serve as reminders to live in the present, which is our only valuable possession in our short, fleeting time.