Chicano tattoo
Chicano is a style that grew out of the Mexican-American community in California. It is known for softly shaded black and grey pieces: female portraits, roses, rosaries, pocket watches, ornate script lettering and religious symbols. The result looks like a pencil drawing and usually carries a strong personal story.
Our work: Chicano tattoos
What does a Chicano tattoo look like?
It relies on fine lines and soft grey shading, colour appears only rarely. Common motifs include the Virgin Mary, Santa Muerte, laughing and crying masks, money and dice, as well as lettering in calligraphy-based script. How to choose a font is covered on our choosing a tattoo font page. Motifs are often joined into one composition with a smooth background.
Where on the body does Chicano work best?
Because of the detail in faces and lettering, Chicano needs room: the forearm, upper arm, chest, back or calf. Large compositions on the back or across the whole chest are among the most typical. On a small area we choose a simpler motif, such as a rose or lettering.
What do Chicano motifs mean?
Most motifs are rooted in family, faith and community life: the rosary and the Virgin Mary stand for protection, clocks for the passing of time, the masks for joy and sorrow. Today many people choose them mainly for their look. If you want a motif with a specific meaning, write it in the form and the artist will build the design around it. More motifs and their meanings can be found among our tattoo symbols.
How much does a Chicano tattoo cost?
The price depends on size and the time the piece takes, not on the style itself. You will find guide prices by size on our tattoo prices page. The artist will give you an exact price once you send your idea, placement and size through the form below.
