Top 101 Tree Of Life Tattoo Ideas – [2021 Inspiration Guide]
The Tree of Life is one of those tattoo design ideas that permeates folklore cultures regardless of its origin. It’s an ancient symbol that has reached through multiple cultures, religions, and philosophies. While the tree has different deep meaning in each culture, and different meaning throughout the entire spectrum, the core concept of the tree of life remains unchanging.
A Tree of Life tattoo design represents the interconnections between all life, and it shows that all knowledge, hope, life, and love comes from the same source. It’s a timeless life tree tattoo design showcased in the 50+ best tattoo ideas.
It has many names throughout history and different culture, including the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, the Tree of Immortality, the Sacred Tree and the Cosmic Tree. A tree tattoo of this kind is known to represent the largest ideas of human nature, like salvation, oneness, wisdom, abundance, progression, and eternity.
When a tattoo artist creates a Tree of Life, they usually draw bare branches and roots of the tree as intertwining circles, which helps allude to the theme of cyclical life and progressive growth. These tattoos are deeply spiritual in Norse Mythology (Yggdrasil) and Celtic Mythology in particular. The life tree tends to have significant meaning to those who get them. The Tree of Life is perhaps the most well-known and easily recognizable symbol on the planet, with deep links to sacred geometry, rebirth, and immortality in each tattoo idea.
It is used in pop culture and tree tattoo art for many nature lover concepts. The Sacred Tree has many famous iterations, like the Tree of Souls found in the blockbuster movie ‘Avatar’.
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1. Black Ink Tree of Life Tattoos
Just as Tree of Life images are inherently compelling, there is something fundamentally appealing about black work tattoos. The bold lines and stark contrast that is created using this, most limited of color palettes , is perfectly suited to these sacred trees.
Some pieces use ink to create large swaths of black, utilizing unadorned negative space to complete the designs and help the tattoo pop. Other pieces use fine lines and a meticulous application of details to create interesting designs that draw the eye in and reveal an intricacy that is both surprising and visually pleasing. These tattoos are great examples of what is possible with black ink.
2. Forearm Tree Of Life Tattoos
When thinking about a tattoo art, it ‘s absolutely necessary to take proper placement into consideration for a couple reasons. Many people need to consider their family’ s attitudes regarding ink, while others work in industries that prohibit visible tattoos. Unless you want to wear long sleeves for the rest of your life, placement is worth thinking about.
That being said, the forearm is becoming a more popular spot to get ink: these pieces can be easily hidden for weddings and job interviews, but all you have to do is roll up your sleeves to show off some ink. These Tree of Life tattoos demonstrate how thoughtful placement can enhance the overall appeal of a piece.
3. Upper Arm Tree Of Life Tattoos
The upper arm and bicep have been some of the most common places to get ink for decades, and it’s easy to understand why. The upper arm , leading onto the shoulder provide s an artist a large canvas to work, and the musculature of the bicep responds quickly to exercise and training.
The back of the arm, on the triceps, is also a spot that is gaining popularity for tattoos. While the wearer won’t see the ink everyday this placement ensures everyone behind you in line at the grocery store will get an eyeful. Tree of Life designs can also be created that perfectly follow the natural lines of the upper arm to create more dynamic and interesting tattoos .
4. Leg Tree Of Life Tattoos
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More and more people are choosing to get ink on their legs these days, and for good reason. Some people want to get ink on their legs because it is easier to cover with slacks , while for others their legs are just the next step on their life -long journey to cover their body with ink.
These Tree of Life tattoos placed on the legs also create symbolic significance thanks to the role the legs play as the platform that provides stability to the entire body. This symbolism provides a great opportunity to incorporate roots into the designs , deepening the significance of the piece while creating a more interesting tattoo at the same time.
5. Calf Tree Of Life Tattoos
The calf muscles are some of the more prominent muscles regularly on display in daily life, right behind biceps and forearms. Scientists use calf muscle s as an indicator of general health and fitness thanks to the direct correlation between calf diameter and overall muscle density in the rest of the body.
There is also statistical evidence to suggest that women find well-built calves some of the more attractive muscles on a man’s body , so, you might as well decorate them. The tree of Life tattoos are perfect for the calf, thanks to the way the natural shape and lines of the area can be used to enhance these designs.
6. Back Tree Of Life Tattoos
The back has long been a popular place for tattoos for a number of reasons. The first and most obvious of these is that fact that the back provides the single largest canvas on the body; for this reason many people choose to get large, striking designs that encompass the entire back . There is also a symbolic reason for getting back tattoos. Many people choose to get designs on their back that they feel can act as protection by “watching their back ” .
7. Chest Tree Of Life Tattoos
The chest is a perfect place to get tattoos. There are few parts of the body that so perfectly convey the importance of an image than the chest, specifically over the heart . W hether it is the name of a loved one, an inspirational quote or a stylized Tree of Life, when an image is placed over the heart there is little doubt about the significance the piece holds for the wearer. Applied in different styles with a variety of techniques, these tattoos demonstrate how appealing these designs look on the chest.
8. Side Tree Of Life Tattoos
Another placement that is gaining popularity uses the sides of the stomach and chest as a canvas that is nearly as large as the back. The large size and variety of different lines created by the rib cage, abdominal muscles and outer pectoral provide a skilled artist with plenty of interesting opportunities to utilize the natural shape of the body.
9. Colorful Tree Of Life Tattoos
At the end of the day, tattoos are about self-expression, and some people want their designs to be as bright and vibrant as their personalities. While the different styles and approaches to color tattoos are as varied and diverse as the artists that employ them, one style has continued to gain popularity.
By using a loose, illustrative approach the effect of watercolors being applied to the body is created, to great effect. B old, black line work is often incorporated to give the impression of the ink breaking free of the outline and running “off the page”. These tattoos use this, among other strategies, to create one of a kind Tree of Life designs.
10. Dotwork Tree Of Life Tattoos
Another interesting trend in the tattoo world uses a meticulous application of dots to create the variations in tones and shading that produce these interesting designs. These Tree of Life tattoos successfully use this approach to create these stunning pieces that are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artists.
11. Innovative Black Ink Tree of Life Tattoos
The world of tattoos is an ever changing discipline that is constantly challenging what is possible when it comes to permanently applying ink to skin. Thanks to the thousands of talented artists that are endlessly pushing the limits of the art form, the designs grow bigger, bolder and more mind blowing.
These artists take that tradition of innovation and use black ink and a variety of techniques and approaches to create unique tattoos dedicated to these mystical symbols of life. These pieces demonstrate that vivid colors are not necessary to make compelling designs that help redefine the discipline of tattoo art.
The world of tattoos is an ever changing discipline that is constantly challenging what is possible when it comes to permanently applying ink to skin. Thanks to the thousands of talented artists that are endlessly pushing the limits of the art form, the designs grow bigger, bolder and more mind blowing.
These artists take that tradition of innovation and use black ink and a variety of techniques and approaches to crea te unique tattoos dedicated to these mystical symbols of life. These pieces demonstrate that vivid colors are not necessary to make compelling designs that help redefine the discipline of tattoo art.
Tree of Life Tattoo FAQs
What does the Tree of Life tattoo symbolize?
Humans are meaning makers; we are constantly looking for ways to comprehend and incorporate the world around us into a cohesive understanding of the universe. This is how the variety of different rituals and customs that form the basis of human culture developed. While the endless diversity of tattoo meaning attached to different symbols is staggering, there are some so deeply entrenched in the human psyche that they pop up in different cultures separated by time and distance.
The Tree of Life is one of these symbols, known as archetypes.
Evidence of this tree design concept has been found in Ancient Egypt as well as featuring prominently in the Celtic culture of Ireland where the Celtic tree of life is known as the Crann Bethadh. The Tree of Life is also found in a number of sacred traditions from the Fertile Crescent, in what is now modern day Iraq and Syria. Similar imagery with parallel symbolism can be found in the pre-Colombian cultures in Meso-America and North America hinting at some deeper connection to this concept that permeates human existence.
The Tree of Life, World Tree,Sacred Tree and Cosmic Tree are all names that describe this same concept. This tree design represents the interconnected nature of the world, with all the different life on this planet falling under the eaves of this mystical tree. This tree provides a physical representation of the divine nature of all life, from the heights of humanity all the way to the l owliest beetle, we are all one cosmic entity.
Did you enjoy the deep meaning of these Tree of Life tattoos? Click on the links below for more galleries of cool tattoos of folklore cultures:
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.