“Alien”—that’s what people are calling the latest tattoo trend: Cybersigilism. This emerging style of permanent body art is gaining traction for its futuristic designs that blend sharp linework with organic, mystical elements. While Gen Z is embracing cybersigilism with enthusiasm, it hasn’t been as warmly received by older generations. Many within the veteran tattoo community compare the new style to mere scribbles, often likening it to the work of “scratchers”—self-taught tattoo artists who frequently operate in unlicensed settings. Traditional tattoo artists, who are more set in their ways, tend to dismiss this new style, believing there is only one “correct” way to tattoo.
Yet, tattoos are meant to be a form of personal expression. Whether someone opts for a cybersigilism design, a watercolor wolf, or a neo-traditional ship, tattoos serve as a permanent reflection of one’s individuality and fashion. They are a way to showcase personal identity, and ultimately, the wearer’s opinion is the only one that truly matters.
Interestingly, while cybersigilism is a rising trend, many draw parallels to more classic styles like tribal tattoos. Tribal and neo-tribal tattoos are known for their bold black lines—thick, swooping, and sharp. Cybersigilism can be seen as a more enigmatic, perhaps distant cousin, echoing some similarities but with a contemporary twist. It resonates with personal aesthetics, especially for those with an alternative style, whereas tribal tattoos often honor heritage. For example, in Samoan culture, tribal tattoos signify pride, rites of passage, and significant life milestones. Celebrities like Jason Momoa and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson proudly showcase their tribal tattoos.
Cybersigilism, being a newer trend, hasn’t yet captured the same level of celebrity endorsement, likely because it is perceived as a fleeting fad. Celebrities might prefer timeless designs for their red carpet appearances, eventual Hollywood Walk of Fame unveiling, or their Getty images. Nonetheless, Grimes, the cyberpunk musician, sports a full-back cybersigilism tattoo, which has been dubbed “alien scars” by social media. True to Grimes’s style, it is both otherworldly and subtly provocative.
At its core, tattooing is much more than a trend—it’s a visual language that conveys self-identity and individual stories. Each tattoo, no matter the style, serves as a permanent reflection of the wearer’s values, beliefs, and aesthetic sensibilities. In the same way that clothing or accessories communicate who we are to the world, tattoos offer a lifetime of self-expression. But unlike fashion, which can change with the season, tattoos are a true commitment to one’s identity.
Tattoos challenge the norms of beauty and tradition, offering a personalized form of art that reflects individuality in its rawest form. The rise of styles like cybersigilism allow people to carve out a unique identity in a world where self-expression can often feel alien.
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