As one of the most iconic states in the U.S.A., California is known for its impeccably beautiful weather, sandy beaches, and relaxed, serene atmosphere. Also known as the Golden State because of the 19th century gold rush, California is the sunshine state that contains many important and famous cities as well as hundreds of celebrities. Rich in history and pop culture, the state is beloved by more than just its citizens. This leads to its millions of residents, visitors and admirers wanting to get a tattoo representing the state that they are in love with. Dozens of tattoos are designed for its commemoration. Popular styles of California tattoos include the state outline, the state bear (Grizzly Bear), the word California, the letters CA, and finally, geographic iconography.
The outline of the state of California is a popular choice because it can be transformed into countless different designs. You can get this outline plainly with just the outline if you choose. If you want to add a little flare you can put a star inside the outline showing where you grew up or love to visit. Another option would be to fill in the state with a collage of images or one image. This would allow you to have a dual purpose piece. This means that you can show the shape of California as the main piece, then includes all the things you love about California inside. This also allows for you to get an outline if as a first piece, and fill it in as you go. With this process, the outline is generally filled with further imagery representative of the state like sunset scenes and palm trees or other California symbols. Another creative addition to the iconic outline could be orange California poppies. Orange California poppies are often used as they bloom throughout the state and serve as the state’s flower. The flowers, as well as the official butterfly, can create a more feminine design, softening the rigidity of the outline. If you want to go with a more masculine design, you could add a bear into the outline, or put a highway sign or classic car in the design as well. Although both of these options may have a more feminine or masculine appeal, they are not restricted to just male or female. Be creative and make your own filled in outline special to you.
The state bear, the California Grizzly featured on the flag, is an instantly recognizable design that can accompany the state outline or be imaged alone. The design of the flag can be directly copied or the bear can be rendered more realistically or more cartoonish, depending on the desired effect. You can add this image to other pieces you already have or throw in some palm trees for a background and everyone who sees it will be sure to know that the bear represents California. If you decide to get a realistic full bear profile, or just the headshot, it may not be immediately recognized as the famed California bear. Fear not. This is a great way of having tattoo that could spark lots of questions.
Then when you answer with “it’s my California Grizzly bear” everyone will be impressed with the detail and pride you take in the state bear. A red star is often added, recalling the imagery of the flag. Each of these options would be a great way to depict your love for California. Choose a place that stands out if you want people to know where you are from. Pick a place that is hidden if you want to make the tattoo a hidden gem. Either option is a great way of showing off your California pride.
“California” is another frequently seen image, often rendered in the same handwritten font and red tone that appears on the state license plate. The bolder and capitalized font of the older license plate is sometimes used as well, along with the sun imagery that rests in the background, giving a more retro look. The name can also be formed using negative space, outlining “California” in the foreground of a larger image that represents the state. The word California will be a sure way to impress your love for the state and will be immediately recognizable to anyone who sees it. Other than the outline of the state, this is the most forward way to show that you have a connection with the Golden State.
If you don’t want to get the whole word California tattooed on you, you can always opt for getting the state abbreviation CA. This is a simple and sure way to represent the state. It is also makes it easy to fit that tattoo into places that you already have other work or in those smaller places such as knuckles or behind the ear. If you don’t want your tattoo to be too obvious or like getting simple pieces that are subtle yet classy, then getting a CA tattoo might be right up your alley.
Geographic iconography is often used with the state outline or “California” in order to represent a love and affiliation with the state. The Golden Gate bridge, and the Hollywood sign are often seen, commemorating specific cities, possibly denoting place of birth. The acronyms LA and SD are sometimes included as well, representing Los Angeles and San Diego. The design is dependent on the experience of the individual within the vast state. There are many options that you have when it comes to geographic iconography of California. Choose something that is significant to you. If you grew up in San Jose, you could get a shark to represent the famous hockey team there. If you grew up in Northern California, a couple of gorgeous redwoods would be sure to show your love for the state and all of its natural beauty.
With so many ways to represent California, there is no wrong decision you can make when choosing your California tattoo. The state outline, the state bear (Grizzly Bear), the word California, the letters CA, and finally, geographic iconography are all amazing choices that will look great on practically any part of the body.
