Have you heard of trash polka tattoos? Probably yes, or maybe you don’t know what we’re talking about. Yet it’s a very interesting type of tattoo that’s worth getting to know better.
It’s a fairly new style and entirely European, at least in its origins. Curious to find out more?
History of trash polka tattoos
To retrace the history of trash polka tattoos, we have to imagine Germany in the late 1990s. This is where the genre was born and established itself, based on an idea by two tattoo artists who, over the years, have become very well known on the scene.
They are two former graphic designers who used their skills to create a new genre. We are talking about the duo Simone Pfaff and Volker Merschky and their idea of mixing hyperrealism and graphic effects such as brushstrokes, geometric shapes, and lettering.
The result? Completely innovative subjects, which have been renamed trash polka.
One of the main characteristics of this genre is undoubtedly its high impact. This is also because, in addition to genres, colors such as black and red are also mixed. This creates contrasts that make the tattoo original and unique.
There are no white spaces: everything is filled in and brushed, which is undoubtedly another characteristic of this genre.
Those who love this genre know that it is the imagination and skill of the tattoo artist that makes the difference. This style was born as a break with tradition, which is why the salient features are those mentioned above.
Trash polka tattoos: subjects
Give free rein to your imagination. Brushstrokes and shapes are very fashionable, but there are no standard rules. Lots of skulls, lots of shades and brushstrokes: in short, freedom of choice. This is certainly a genre with great visual impact, and not only that. For many, in addition to the meaning of the symbol they choose, there is also the double significance of a tattoo that breaks the mold and breaks away from tattoo tradition. Every genre is always well defined, but in this case, we are dealing with a truly unique style that attracts many people.
Many tattoo artists appreciate this unique style, which is increasingly in demand. Many women and men ask for a trash polka tattoo.
There are no specific rules for creating one, either in terms of the subjects or the needles used. However, small needles are usually preferred for details and magnum needles for filling.
