Whether you believe in the symbolism of Chinese astrology or simply love the artistry and allure of these mythical beasts, 2024 is the year to celebrate dragons! The Year of The Dragon comes every 12 years, and is said to bring energy, opportunity and luck to those born under the dragon sign.
Are You a Dragon?
If you’re familiar with the Western zodiac, you know that certain birth dates and months correspond with the Zodiac signs, such as Gemini, Capricorn, Scorpio and so on. In Chinese astrology, there are 12 animal signs, each represented by years. The following are the birth years of the dragon: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012, 2024.
Regardless of your birth year, however, you may feel connected to the bold energy of the dragon. Perhaps you share some dominant traits or want to inspire yourself to draw strength and good fortune from these iconic creatures. Xclusive Ink artists can help you choose a tattoo design that celebrates your passion. The following are some ideas to get you started.
10 Dragon Tattoo Styles For Power, Wisdom & Good Fortune
A popular choice for tattoos, dragons can be articulated in many ways, depending on the artist’s interpretations and the client’s preferred style. Here are some examples to consider when booking your dragon tattoo.
- Traditional Chinese Dragon:
Inspired by Chinese mythology, these dragons are often depicted with long serpentine bodies, antler-like horns, and flowing manes. They symbolize power, wisdom, and good fortune.
- Japanese Dragon:
Japanese dragon tattoos often feature long, slender bodies, and are associated with water. They can be depicted with three claws (for a celestial dragon) or four claws (for an earthly dragon). Japanese dragons are seen as benevolent and wise.
- European Dragon:
Influenced by Western mythology, European dragons are typically portrayed as fire-breathing creatures with wings and claws. These tattoos may emphasize the dragon’s fierce nature.
- Oriental Dragon:
Combining elements from various Asian cultures, oriental dragon tattoos may blend features from Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dragons. They often emphasize elegance and can be adapted to different sizes and body placements.
- Colorful Dragon:
Colorful dragon tattoos may have vibrant schemes and a striking, contemporary feel.
- Celtic Dragon:
Celtic dragon tattoos incorporate complex patterns inspired by Celtic art. These designs may emphasize the dragon’s mythical and mystical qualities, with the knots symbolizing eternal life and interconnectedness.
- Realistic Dragon:
Realistic dragon tattoos portray dragons as living creatures, showcasing their detailed scales, and textures with meticulous shading to create a lifelike representation of the mythical beast.
- Comic or Anime Dragon:
Inspired by comic books and anime, these dragon tattoos often feature bold lines, exaggerated features, and dynamic poses. They appeal to those who appreciate a more animated and fantastical style.
- Dragons in Flight:
This style is often done on a larger scale, making it ideal for the back or chest areas of a client’s body. These designs capture a sense of movement and freedom.
- Yin and Yang Dragons:
Incorporating the concept of yin and yang, these tattoos depict two dragons—one light (yang) and one dark (yin)—coiled around each other. This symbolizes the balance of opposing forces in the universe.
Ready to Celebrate The Year of The Dragon?
If you’re ready to ring in the Year of The Dragon with a dragon style tattoo, Xclusive Ink invites you to reach out. With a team of experienced artists in an array of styles, we’re here to help you create a stunning piece of art!
