We all remember the cringey tribal tattoo craze of the 90s and early 2000s, big black designs with lots of sharp edges usually tattooed on frat boys and jocks. But you may have noticed a “new” style of tribal taking over in the 2020’s.

Borneo for those who don’t know is the third largest island in the world and the largest in Asia. This post is NOT a historical look at Borneo tattooing (check back for that soon), rather just an observation and appreciation of this much cooler form of tribal tattooing making its way through the Western world.

Borneo tribal tattooing is known for its striking geometric patterns, focusing more on curved edges inspired by nature rather than the hard and sharp edged tribal of the 90s which was more industrial in the way pieces were crafted.

Traditional Borneo tattooing is done in only black ink but adding colour to the mix has been a popular way to borrow from and be inspired by Borneo tattooing rather than straight copy and pasting. Because of the heavy black and geometric patterns that flow with the body, Borneo style tribal also make for great coverup or blast over tattoos!

Like any culturally specific tattoo from Japanese to Borneo you should understand the culture and the history and be aware that some tattoos may not be for outsiders like you, such as Borneo headhunter tattoos, and that’s okay. When in doubt ask your artist and do research on your own.

Do you have a Borneo inspired tribal tattoo? Share it below!