Spider-Man remains one of the most popular superheroes ever created, thanks to writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko. Fans have been enamoured with Spider-Man ever since Peter Parker was first bitten by a radioactive spider in 1962, and today, many are even getting Spider-Man tattoos.
Spider-Man half sleeve done by Richy Price at Dark Souls Tattoo in Birminham, UKSimpsons meets Spider-Man by Chelsea Matthews at Bold as Brass Tattoo in Liverpool
Spider-Man had a humble beginning as a comic book character and has since been in cartoons, live action and animated movies, video games, and even a Broadway musical. Spidey’s movies are probably the most well known and currently consumed amidst pop culture out there (aside from possibly Batman), and he’s been played by Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield, and Tom Holland in the live action films, and was voiced by Shameik Moore, Chris Pine, and Jake Johnson as various versions of Spider-Man in his most recent animated film.
Spider-Man by Blanca Secco in SpainComic book style Spider-Man by Zineb Slaimi in Cambodia
The first villain in the comics was the Chameleon, but other villains include Dr. Octopus, Venom, Electro, and one of his main arch-nemeses the Green Goblin.
Spider-Man and New York’s skyline by Tom Osvath at Ink and Iron in ChicagoA cute cartoon spidey by Danny Elliott at Rebel Muse Denver
While most folks ship Peter with Mary Jane or Gwen Stacey, his original love interest was Betty Brant, the secretary at The Daily Planet.
Miles Morales by at PMA JayA hyper realistic Spider-Man by Lui Color Tattoo at Bunte Tinte Tattoo Dresden
Peter Parker is the most well known version of Spider-Man, but other versions within the spider-verse include Miles Morales, Spider-Ham, Miguel O’Hara, Mayday Parker, and Gwen Stacey (as Spider-Gwen) among others.
Miles Morales by Yeray PerezComic book Spidey by Joäo Paulo Matos
The Addams family have been creeping people out and making them laugh since 1938 when the kooky family first appeared in Charles Addams’ cartoon in The New Yorker. Since then, they have also appeared in the 1960’s sit-com that ran for two seasons, a cartoon show in the 70’s that also ran for two seasons, a live action feature film in 1991 and a sequel in 1993, and a cartoon feature in 2019.
Addams Family quote by Meg Lewis at Stallions and Galleons Tattoo in the UKMorticia and Gomez by Max Puga
As tattoos, the character “Wednesday” is probably the most popular for fans, followed by Uncle Fester and Thing. Quotes and other characters also make for great tattoos. The most prevalent styles are black and grey, realism, and neo-traditional.
Hyper realistic portrait of Uncle Fester by Sólyom Dániel at James Tattoo Gallery in BudapestThing by Emma Maris at This Dark Horse Tattoo in Manchester, England
Wednesday Addams has long been a fan favourite, but like the other characters, she didn’t have a name until the 1960’s show. She was named after the nursery rhyme called “Monday’s Child”, detailing the days of the week, with Wednesday being described in the rhyme as “Wednesday’s child is full of woe.” In the original cartoon she is pail, dark haired, and has an obsession with the macabre. In the 1960’s show she is much sweeter and kinder, though her favourite hobby is raising spiders. The 1990’s films made her much darker again, and it’s this version of Wednesday that usually makes it to tattoos.
A devilish Wednesday by Peter Granite Crowell at Lighthouse Tattoo Club, in Auburn, CAWednesday and poison by Kim Cauchi at Modern Tribe Tattoo Studio
Creator Charles Addams was known for having somewhat macabre interests and hobbies, hence his ability to create such fantastic characters and stories. His house was apparently filled with medieval weapons and torture devices. He had a particular love for crossbows and even admitted to fantasizing about shooting an intruder or robber with one.
Uncle Fester by Kyra Leigh at To The Grave Tattoo in Lexington, KY“Stay Weird” Wednesday by Brianne Sienkiewicz at No Man’s Land Tattoo in Middletown NY
Angelica Huston (Morticia Addams) apparently grew up reading her parents’ book of Addams Family cartoons and even pretended she was Morticia. It is interesting how she ended up playing the character in the movies 30 years later. She also had to go through a daily routine of fitting into a metal corset that created the cartoonish figure of Morticia. This included gauze eye lifts, neck tucks, and fake nails.
Cartoons Wednesday and Pugsley by Toni Mazuranic at Tattoo Hardline in Zagreb, CroatiaWednesday and the house by Uncle Trashcan in Orlando, FL
The Office (US) is the immensely popular series based on the UK series of the same name. While both shows are popular, the American version has seen much more popularity worldwide, while the UK version receives most of its praise within the UK. The British version came to be (mostly in part by Ricky Gervais who also acts in it) and ran for two seasons. The US version was created in 2005 and ran for nine seasons, has been nominated for a total of 193 awards, 51 of which it won, and has one of the most loyal fan-bases in television, leading to many hardcore fans getting tattoos dedicated to it.
“Identity theft is not a joke, Jim!” Done by Ryan Ashley DiCristina“Hello, Clarice…” Done by Erin Davies at La Belle Tattoo Studio
As tattoos, many people opt for getting the more popular characters, usually Dwight or Michael; but any and all of them can be found. Direct quotes and images based on quotes also make for popular tattoo designs; such as Michael’s infamous movie ”Threat Level Midnight.”
Threat Level Midnight by J. Partylord at Bona Root Tattoo ParlourMatching “Nard” dogs done by Robin Patel at Timeless Tat2
The Office has become such an integral part of North American pop culture that psychologists have even explored why people are so obsessed with it. Many people have even continuously binge watched it on Netflix, on repeat (myself included). Reasons for peoples’ need to watch and re-watch the show seem to all be about comfort, such as relieving stress, dealing with trauma or heartbreak, and even coping with mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.
Pam’s drawing of the office done by Karina Aroca at Evilvink Studios“We need a new plague.” Done by Landon Lewis at Black Thorn Gallery
Some fun facts that you may not know about your favourite show include: the temperature on set had to be kept at a cool 17 degrees (64 F) because actor Steve Carell has active sweat glands that could ruin a shot. Jim and Pam’s proposal scene was the most expensive shot of the show, costing around $250,000 (US) because the backdrop of the storefronts were built for the show. Rainn Wilson (Dwight) auditioned for the role of Michael Scott, Seth Rogen auditioned for the role of Dwight, and Adam Scott auditioned for the role of Jim. Clearly, the casting director made the right choices (no offence to Seth and Adam). And speaking of casting, Phyllis Smith (Phyllis Lapin-Vance) was initially an assistant casting director for the show, but the producers were so impressed with her reading of lines for those who were auditioning that she was asked to act in the show instead.
Prison Mike done by Pierre Gwood at Deerhound Studio in OttawaKevin’s famous chilli done by Shawn Patton at Trustworthy Tattoo
For many of us, The Office is a favourite that makes us laugh over and over, and can be an immense source of comfort in dark times. It’s a show that’s such a big part of our lives that some even opt for immortalizing it on their skin forever.
Dwight portrait done by Dillon RobertsonJim’s present done by Tom Hall at Seventy Two Street Tattoo
Jennah works out ofBluebird Tattoo in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She has become well known in the city and throughout Canada as a must see artist for anyone who loves anime, cartoons, video games, or comic books.
“Fight like a girl” Sailor Moon themed pieceBrilliant Miyazaki leg sleeve.
Jennah mainly works in new school or neo-traditonal styles, but also does brilliant black and grey.
Some water type Pokemon for the gamers.Shenron from Dragon Ball/Dragon Ball Z.
If you’re a lover of the nerdier things in life, Jennah is a must see artist. Her own love of cartoons and anime shines through in her exquisite attention to detail in the characters she recreates.
Beautiful Inuyasha piece with cherry blossoms.Batman/Joker piece inspired by Batman’s “Death of a Family.”
Jennah does brilliant large scale pieces such as full arm or leg sleeves, but happily does small one-offs such as singular characters and creatures.
An in progress Disney sleeve.Super Smash Bros and Legend of Zelda sleeve.
What’s your favourite anime?
An adorable Baby Groot from The Guardians of the Galaxy.Adventure Time’s Lumpy Space Princess in all her lumpy glory.
Tim Burton’s 1988 film, Beetlejuice, is as fun today as it was over 30 years ago. Featuring a great cast with Winona Ryder, Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, and the ghost with the most, Michael Keaton, Beetlejuice is a great spooky comedy for those who love the Halloween aesthetic, but not horror.
Beetlegeuse done by Paul Acker at Seance Tattoo parlourBarbara and Adam done by Sarah Keeley in Toronto
Along with being a hit cult movie, an animated show following Lydia and Beetlegeuse’s relationship was created, and ran for four seasons.
A black work piece featuring Barbara and Adam, the sandworm, and the house, done by Angelo Parente at Black Casket TattooThe Handbook For The Recently Deceased, done by fakelegfoxtattoo
Beetlejuice was made on quite a moderate budget, but made $73 million at the box office, was the 10th highest grossing film of 1988, and even won an Oscar for best makeup.
Sandworm done by Brittany at Permanence Tattoo GalleryBarbara and Adam portrait done by Jessica Channer at Take Care Tattoo
The number “three” was very important in the film. To summon Beetlegeuse you must say his name three times, the Maitland’s say the word “home” three times to escape Beetlegeuse, they knock on the door three times to get into the afterlife, and when the family moves into the house, Delia wonders why there are only three sculptures.
Cute “no feet” ghost piece done by Priscila Wolff at Studio 22“Never Trust The Living” and house done by dollytattoos in Brighton
As tattoos, fans continue to get Beetlegeuse portraits (both from the movie and cartoon), as well as tattoos of Barbara and Adam in their monster form, the sandworm, ghosts, the creepy house, and the Handbook for the Recently Deceased. The most popular styles appear to be old school, Neo-traditional, and black work, though realism and minimalism are also seen quite a bit.
Cartoon Beetlegeuse done by Sara Taylor at Arsenal InkThe house and sandworm done by Suzie Woodward
John Carpenter’s “The Thing” is a favourite cult movie for many, despite its major flop when it first came out. The special effects are still what’s most loved and talked about with horror lovers today.
Norris head spider done by Jan Man at First String Tattoo in WinnipegNorris head spider done by Dan Gagné Mortem Tattoo in Montreal
Special effects artist Rob Bottin was just 22 when he headed a team of 40 technicians, working on the film for seven weeks after previously working on The Fog with John Carpenter already.
Grotesque metamorphosis by Ronald L Philips at Cherry Bomb TattooNorris head spider done by Josh Todaro at the Grand Illusion Tattoo in Australia
One of the most famous scenes is the “chest chomp” where Dr. Copper tries to revive Norris by restarting his heart, with his arms in his chest. Bottin found a double arm amputee to film this scene so that they could attach prosthetics that could then be ripped off in a realistic a manner as possible.
Kurt Russell portrait done by Jonathan PenchoffNorris head spider done by Aaron Francione at Magic Eye Tattoo
Kurt Russell damn near blew himself up for real in that scene where he fights the “Palmer-Thing.” They used real dynamite in the filming of this scene and Kurt was unaware of how powerful the blast would be. John Carpenter kept the real shot in the film, so Kurt being thrown back and his surprise was genuine.
Black and grey Kurt Russell portrait done by Mason at The Drop of Ink in the UKMatching pieces including Norris head spider done by Kalo at Spider Web Tattoo in Berlin
As a tattoo, various forms of metamorphosis are the most popular tattoos, particularly that creepy head. Fans of Kurt Russell have also immortalized his character. Realistic or old school styles also seem to be the most popular for those who want to have The Thing on them forever.
Black and grey head spider done by Paul RogersCute little head spider done by Dana at Lucky Peach Tattoo
The Crow, directed by Alex Proyas and starring Brandon Lee (son of Bruce Lee), is most famous for the unfortunate death of Brandon on set. The film is based on the comic books written by James O’Barr in the 1980’s which in turn were based on two real life tragedies. James’ fiancee had been killed by a drunk driver and this was one way he tried to cope with the loss. The other tragedy was something he had heard about: an engaged couple murdered over the ring. These two events helped him think of the plot for The Crow, “That became the beginning of the focal point, and the idea that there could be a love so strong that it could transcend death, that it could refuse death, and this soul would not rest until it could set things right.”
Brandon Lee as Eric Draven done by Paul Acker at Seance TattooQuote and graveyard done by Chemzz 182 Tattoo
Brandon Lee died during a freak accident on set when his character, Eric Draven, was shot by Michael Massee’s character, Funboy. Michael fired the prop gun which had earlier been loaded with dummy cartridges filled with real brass caps (for the shot), bullet, but no powder. After filming the initial scene with the gun, the props master fired it to get the cock off, which in turn knocked the prop bullet into the barrel of the gun. It was next used by Michael Massee on set during a scene where he was meant to shoot Brandon as he entered the room. Fake shootings usually contain extra gun powder to make it extra loud and authentic, but with nothing in the barrel. Since the fake bullet had become lodged in the barrel earlier in filming, it was fired at Brandon much like a real gun, killing him on set.
Realistic black and grey sleeve done by Manuel ClementoniDark portrait done by Matthew Murray at Black Veil Tattoo in Salem
According to Michael Massee, 12 years after the accident he still had nightmares about accidentally shooting Brandon. People interested in “cursed” films often refer to The Crow, and the Lee family curse, as Brandon’s famous father, Bruce, also died due to “mysterious circumstances.”
A more old school portrait done by Nae Pier NebulaHalf sleeve done by Carlos Freeze Gonzalez Ferrer
The makeup used for Eric Draven is loved by all who watch the movie, and it was apparently inspired by a marionette mask that James saw painted on a theatre in London. “I thought it’d be interesting to have this painful face with a smile forcibly drawn on.” It reportedly took between 35 minutes and up to an hour and a half to get the makeup right each day on set. Another set fact is despite the title being “The Crow”, no crows were used in the filming of the movie, but ravens instead. The ravens had to be trained to fly at night, in rain, through a wind tunnel, and one had to be specially trained to sit on Brandon’s shoulder.
Quote and portrait done by Eric HexA brighter take done by Anna Gabrielle
As tattoos, most fans of the movie opt to getting some sort of portrait of Brandon, as well as quotes from the movie or comic, and sometimes depictions from the comic, as well as crows or ravens.
A trash polka portrait done by Paul TalbotBloody quote and portrait done by Monikyna Tattoo
Aliens have long been a subject of much fascination for many people; from those who believe they have been abducted, seen UFO’s, or those who just love aliens in pop culture.
Little Green Man by Alison Smiley at Golden Rule TattooE.T by Kira Bishop at Dove Tail Tattoo
Some favourite pop culture aliens include E.T, xenomorphs from the Alein franchise, Roger the alien from American Dad, little green men from Mars Attacks, and many more.
Roger the alien by Brenna Rose at Top Hat Art CollectiveThree eyed alien by Fernando Mondragon
Alien films are often seen as more “nerdy” fitting the sci-fi mould well, but they also mix well with horror and/or comedy.
I want To Believe by FeDe Spicy TattooXenomorph by Jesse Williams at Black Rider Tattoo in Vancouver
Many people believe that Area 51, located in Southern Nevada houses aliens that are being experimented on by the American government. Much of this conspiracy comes from the secrecy shrouding the are as civilians aren’t allowed to enter, and even the airspace cannot be entered without permission. One of the most popular alien theories involves a UFO crashing in Roswell, New Mexico. Many believe that the remains of the said UFO were brought to Area 51 for reverse engineering.
Aliens by Tiffany DrmsbyMinimalistic UFO by Ali Crawley at Heartbreak Social Club
Do you believe in aliens?
Chill alien by Valentina Bubu SandriXenomorph by Paul Acker at Seance Tattoo
Frog and Toad are two characters of a series of illustrated short stories written by author Arnold Lobel in the 1970’s, that were also made into short claymation animation pieces in the 80’s.
By Sidney ThoresonBy Amber Howe
The stories are meant to teach children to be kind, and were also the beginnings of Arnold coming out as gay. He described frog and toad as two aspects of himself, and his daughter described the pair as of the same sex that love each other.
By Sara Taylor at Arsenal InkBy Kiki Kono at Great Whale Tattoo
There are four books, each containing five wholesome short stories that are simple, humorous, and full of teachable moments.
By Ryan BrayBy Knotted Sword Tattoo
Frog is tall, green, cheery, and relaxed; while toad is short, squat, light brown, and while still friendly, is the more serious and pragmatic of the two.
By Julia Seizure at Divine Ink DevonBy Mark Bennett at Tough Luck Delaware
For many these two were a favourite couple growing up, and getting them as tattoos can be a callback to childhood and simpler times. As a tattoo, they are largely drawn quite similarly to their illustrated selves, meaning simple designs, colours, and textures.
By Ian Powers at Powers Tattoo CompanyBy Julia Hayes at Moonrise Tattoo
All Things Tattoo 