Floral tattoos have a plethora of different meanings and symbolism associated with them. Traditional floral tattoo designs are as varied in style as in meaning; in ancient cultures, flowers
The Bluebonnet tattoo is one of exceptional beauty and powerful meaning behind it. In this article we will discuss in greater detail the history of the Bluebonnet tattoo, it’s symbolism and meaning, where a Bluebonnet tattoo is usually placed and common characteristics and styles of this popular flower tattoo.
What is the History of Bluebonnet tattoos?
Traditional tattooing practises consisted mostly of tribal designs, but flowers and animals were incorporated in many of the designs. Traditionally, the tattoos helped establish a sense of identity, and the tattoo would use plants and animals local to the area where you were from, as a way of identifying what area you lived in and what people you belonged to.
Bluebonnets are a beautiful desert bloom. Sturdy and hardy to withstand the harsh desert conditions, they are recognisable by their beautiful blue flowers. The flower became the official state flower of Texas in 1901.
The Comanche legend of the bluebonnet
There is a Comanche legend surrounding these wonderful desert blooms. It is said that the bluebonnet was a gift to the Comanche. Long ago, the legend says, there was a very harsh and cruel drought.
The rains hadn’t come for a long, long time, and no matter how many dances they did or ceremonies the Comanche people had, the rains would not come. At this time, a young girl called She-Who-Is-Alone lived among the tribe.
The shaman of the tribe told his people that they had become too selfish, and that was why the drought continued. The only way to bring the rain back was if the tribe sacrificed it’s most prized possession.
The Comanche were confused, as no one knew exactly what their people’s most sacred possession was, so they were unsure what to sacrifice. But She-Who-Is-Alone knew the answer.
She-Who-Is-Alone knew that she must sacrifice her most favourite possession, which happened to be a doll, which had been given to her by her parents, who were now deceased. This doll was She-Who-Is-Alone’s one and only possession.
So, in the middle of the night, She-Who-Is-Alone, burned her doll and scattered the ashes to the four corners of the Earth. When the sun rose the next day, the hillside was covered in bluebonnets, signs that the Great Spirits had forgiven the Comanche, and that when they gave thanks, the rains would return.
This legend is partially why the bluebonnets today represent self-sacrifice. Bluebonnet tattoos are largely sported by Texans, who wish to show off their state pride.
What Do Bluebonnets Symbolise?
Bluebonnets symbolise a few different things. As mentioned, bluebonnets can symbolise self-sacrifice.
Another thing bluebonnets symbolise is admiration and bravery as well.
A pink bluebonnet symbolises a struggle to survive and a memory of those who gave their lives so that Texax could be free.
Bluebonnets are also commonly symbolise grace and charm.
What Do Bluebonnet Tattoos Mean?
Bluebonnet tattoos can have a couple of different meaning associated with them, largely dependent on the person who chose the tattoo.
As previously stated, the bluebonnet is the state flower for Texas, so anyone from Texas wanting to show their state pride, choosing to get a bluebonnet tattoo is a good choice.
A bluebonnet tattoo represents beauty, grace, charm, sacrifice, and bravery.
Where Do Bluebonnet Tattoos Usually Go?
Bluebonnet tattoos can be placed wherever you would like it to be placed. Your tattoo artist is a great person to ask if you are unsure where you would like it.
The most common places are the forearm, the back of the shoulder, upper arm, hip, and ankle. However, choose the place that you feel is the best for you and your body.
Remember when choosing your tattoo placement is what will happen as you age, how big the tattoo is going to be vs. the spot you have chosen to put the tattoo, and if it can be covered easily for work. Also, bear in mind that some places are more painful than others to get inked.
Characteristics And Styles of Bluebonnet Tattoos
Traditionally, floral tattoos come in many different flavours. It’s very much down to personal preference combined with the tattoo artist you choose. Some tattoo artists are renowned for their delicate line work, others for their colour work or black and white style. Below are several different styles that work with Bluebonnet tattoos:
Realistic
Realistic floral designs are quite fashionable these days. Many tattoo artists try to and keep the inkwork as real as possible, and accurately represent the chosen flower, in this case a bluebell.
Geometric
A more modern take on the traditional floral tattoo is to combine with a geometric design, which have become immensely popular. Common shapes such as squares, diamonds, circles and triangles can be used in conjunction with a bluebonnet or a bouquet of bluebonnets to create a bespoke tattoo design.
Black and white
The most traditional tattoo art is done with black ink on the skin. Although, most people choose to use colour when having a bluebonnet tattoo done, black and white traditional ink tattoos are still a great choice.
Bluebonnet tattoo with quote.
Floral designs with a personal quote are very popular, and the same is true with Bluebonnet tattoos. Since bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas, adding the state motto would make an excellent choice to show off your state pride.
Bluebonnets with long-horn skull
Bluebonnets are native to Texas and therefore many Texans choose to have bluebonnets tattooed as a symbol of state pride. Long-horn cattle are also a Texas native, and it is quite common to have both bluebonnets and long-horn skulls in the same tattoo design piece.
Conclusion
Bluebonnets, found only in Texas, are steeped in legend and make unique tattoos that can mean so much so to so many different people. They are truly beautiful.
