Sailor Jerry tattoos are fun and quirky naval designs. They’re perfect for sailors and non-sailors after a traditional nautical tattoo look.
While in the Navy, Collins came into contact with Japanese tattoo masters. This influenced his style and helped him upgrade American traditional tattooing into a rich art form.
Tiger and Panther
The tiger and panther are two of the most ferocious creatures men love representing with tattoos. They symbolize power and masculinity. If you’re looking for a simple design that will look great on your arm, this is perfect.
When this artist left the Navy, he moved to Honolulu, where he began tattooing sailors and other service members. His designs were inspired by his time in Asia and the Pacific and classic Americana. He often used the blunt lines and solid coloring that define the American Traditional style.
This is a beautiful example of an arm-based Sailor Jerry tattoo featuring a tiger and panther fighting for a man’s honor. This is a powerful and dramatic depiction of a man’s masculinity and courage, which will surely turn heads.
Snake
A snake represents potency and power in tattooing, usually shown coiled and ready to strike. This is an excellent choice for men who want to show off their masculinity and defend themselves against misfortune or brawls.
The mermaid is another classic tattoo that symbolizes the mysterious and alluring world of the sea. This is a perfect tattoo for sailors dedicated to honor and duty.
Sailor Jerry is known as one of the pioneers of American Traditional tattooing, and this piece exemplifies his style. It features bold, thick lines, simple shapes, and andpressive color blending skills. This piece is sure to stand the test of time!
Ready to Strike
Being in the military is a big deal. It’s a time in life when your buddies can save you or even kill you, and one decision can alter the course of your entire career. Men who are in the service often want to display that intensity in their tattoos.
Snakes are usually depicted as coiled and ready to strike, representing potency and power. They also serve as a “don’t tread on me” sensibility, warding off betrayal and lies.
Sharks are another popular subject in Sailor Jerry tattoos. From seeing Quint in Jaws, you may recall that Jerry held a particular disdain for sharks, as they are vicious creatures that should be left alone. This Sailor Jerry tattoo shows that he was well-informed on this issue.
Tree of Life
The Tree of life is a powerful symbol representing many things to different cultures, including immortality, wisdom, balance, and connection. It can also be a reminder to live each day with purpose and the knowledge that death is not the end.
Panthers are usually inked as totems of prowess and virility while also symbolizing a connection to nature. Jerry’s panther Tattoos were particularly ferocious, featuring red claws and open jaws.
The dotted pattern in this design gives it a psychedelic effect that adds to the beauty of this piece. The tree can include fruit like oranges or even represent a family, with each branch representing a child and their birthdate. This can be a great way to show love and celebrate your family.
Love Tears
Sailor Jerry tattoos are perfect for men who want to show off their dominance and power. They also tell a story about a man’s life and the important things to him. These Tattoos cover the entire arm and include many images, such as ships, birds, and beautiful women.
Norman Collins, aka “Sailor Jerry,” spent his life in the Navy and developed an innovative tattoo style there. He was a talented artist who helped popularize American traditional tattooing after returning from the war. His flash designs are still used today by tattoo artists worldwide. His bold style is recognizable by its thick lines and bold colors. Unsurprisingly, he was responsible for popularizing tattoos with nautical symbols, pin-up girls, and iconic American icons.
