This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s fall editorial intern Alayna Thomas. Find her on Instagram at @ratatoolie. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
Every group has their stereotypical tattoo. Boomers have that bold heart with ‘Mom’ inscribed in the middle. Gen X gave us the iconic tramp stamp. Millennials have infinity signs and mustaches tattooed on the inside of their index finger. But, what is the stereotypical Gen Z tattoo? I think that I have found the answer.
In my time browsing Pinterest and Instagram for tattoo ideas, I have seen these tattoo designs that are modern yet ancient, familiar yet new. They are best described as a fusion of technology, nature, and geometry. Even when I go into a tattoo parlor, I am seeing more flash designs being offered that are falling in line with this style. These sharp and technological patterns seem especially popular with my age group. However, this tattoo style is not without controversy. It goes by many names, such as Neo-Tribal, Cyber Tribal, and Cyber Sigilism. So, let’s discover the history of this style, why it’s popular, why it’s controversial, and possibly brainstorm some Cyber Sigilism tattoo ideas along the way.
What is Cyber Sigilism?
Cyber Sigilism is a tattoo style that is marked by its use of the color black, bold patterns, spikes, geometric shapes, and a multitude of other things such as wings, crosses, and animals. What is also notable is that many styles of Cyber Siglism might take from traditional tattoo patterns of Polynesian and Micronesian groups, such as the Māori or Tahitian.
Even though it is more of a tattoo style rather than a whole aesthetic, I can see buddings of an aesthetic movement around these designs. Many people associate these tattoos with the game Kingdom Hearts and with retro futuristic technology such as Nokia phones. I would also associate the movie The Matrix with this style. Additionally, Rage Rap, Metal, and Brazilian Phonk are music genres that I see linked to the style too. All music genres are brash and abrasive, mirroring the tattoo designs,
Why is it Popular?
Cyber Sigilism is popular in part due to the Y2K craze that we have been stuck in. This style was first invented in the early 2000’s, so many associate some of the designs with that time. Additionally, Cyber Siglism embodies the futuristic aspect that the original Y2K aesthetic was going for; this resonates with Gen Z. That mixture of the past and the future stands out. Cyber Sigilst iconography is starting to become more prevalent on clothing, showing how this is not just a tattoo style anymore. These sort of designs are creating a real impact.
One example is the Cyber Sigil tramp stamp. Rapper Ice Spice has one of these tattoos. Once popular in the early 00’s, the tramp stamp died out by the 2010’s and was considered ‘trashy’. Gen Z revived it, however put their own twist on it by having the tattoo resemble an interesting mixture of hearts, spikes, wings, binary code, and Polynesian patterns.
This unique aesthetic trend of Generation Z can actually be transformed into an accessible everyday companion, and custom cyber-rune style pins are the perfect way to do it. Replicate classic elements from tattoos, such as spikes, geometric shapes, and binary codes, onto enamel pins, retaining the original black color scheme and eye-catching design.
You can even add your own personalized symbols and then pin them to your backpack, collar, or journal to show your individuality. Custom pin allows Generation Z’s trendy attitude to be fully expressed in a small space, becoming a unique fashion statement in their daily lives.
Cyber Sigilism is also a highly adaptable style for the body. I have seen full back tattoos, sleeves, and micro tattoos all with this style. If you get an artist that is really good at this style, they could practically make you a tattoo for any part of your body.
Why is it Controversial?
The controversy comes from the Indigenous tattoo forms it draws inspiration from. Some see it as cultural appropriation. I have even seen older people call Cyber Sigilism ‘Gen Z’s version of those shitty gym bro tribal tattoos’. And to be honest, I cannot say that I completely disagree.
Many people who enjoy this tattoo style do not know its origins. This means that they don’t know the reverence that tattoos hold in these cultures. These symbols have different meanings that could indicate a range of different things like tribal rank and/or affiliation, attraction for things such as wealth and peace, or be part of a ritual. Each element carries a profound significance, often deeply rooted in spirituality and cultural heritage, you can find examples of the meanings behind various tattoo elements and read more here.
Furthermore, Pacific Islanders who are heavily tattooed or have tattoos in certain areas can face job discrimination in their respective islands. I can understand how frustrating it may be to see your cultural tattoo styles being seen as trendy when worn by others, but you still face prejudice.
Lastly, I just think that some Gen Z’ers are starting to see this tattoo style as corny. I mentioned earlier how many young clothing brands are including Cyber Sigilist designs; people may just be starting to get fatigued as well. Trends come and go super fast, especially on apps like TikTok, so some people may be on to the next already.
The Many Names of Cyber Sigilism
Noted earlier, this style has many names, such as Neo-Tribal, Cyber Tribal, or Y2K Tribal. These names come in part from people wanting to distance themselves from the cultural appropriation allegations. ‘Neo-Tribal’ and ‘Cyber Tribal’ just don’t sound as good.
Another reason why there are different names is because some artists genuinely do not take inspiration from Pacific Islander tribal patterns. They instead focus more on other aspects of the style, such as geometry. One big realm people take inspiration from is sigils, which are magical symbols. Sigils are prominent in magic and witchcraft and there are multiple to choose from.
Cyber Sigilist designs are also very popular in rock scenes, such as Heavy Metal, Punk, and Deathcore. Many of these designs do not take from Polynesian and Micronesian cultures, and therefore do not strictly fall under being ‘Neo-Tribal’.
However, because these other designs came from or were developed alongside Indigenous derived designs, they all tend to be grouped under the same labels.
Can I Get A Cyber Sigilist Inspired Tattoo?
Yes! I would just be mindful if you are not of Pacific Islander descent to be respectful of the design you choose.
I enjoy Cyber Sigilist tattoos that are mixed with nature and animals. If I were to get one, I’d get one that mirrors a long or slithery animal, like a snake or a centipede. To me it’s a perfect mix of natural elements and technology.
Christian symbols are also used in this tattoo style. Crosses are very popular, so I could see a very interesting twist on a basic cross tattoo happening.
Whether cyber sigilism is your style or you are more into traditional tats, you can find the best tattoo aftercare with Amazon. Save on balms and creams to help keep your tat in top condition
I also think that the Cyber Sigilist designs that are more associated with Metal and related genres are so cool. Many graphic artists in that sphere have been doing stunning letter work and I think that getting someone’s name or a word tattooed in that style would look amazing!
What do you think? Do you like this tattoo style? Do you have any Cyber Sigilism tattoo ideas? Let us know in the comments?
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