Traditional Japanese design elements

[Dude]

Hi Folks,

I'm curious about the elements of the traditional Japanese tattoos. I've found a few pieces of information but not very much. Was there a discussion on this form about that topic I might have missed (and someone could point me to?) Or is there a website or book that someone could suggest? I've been looking at some google images of woodblock prints but for this kind of thing (visual images) I usually need written/verbal direction to help me identify elements and patterns.

Thanks,

Dude

[Graeme]

I am not an expert on this, but Crystal Morey of Gomineko Books is.

Japanese Tattoo Art Design Book Magazine Gomineko Japan

If you need books on Japanese tattoos, design, and reference, she'll have it. She travels the convention circuit with books as well and is super friendly and helpful and the books she has are amazing.

[Brock Varty]

If you search enough you can find this info. Look for books on the history of Japanese body suit tattooing and you will surely find the info. Maybe post up some specific questions in this thread. There are a ton of people here who would be able to point you in the right direction.

[Dude]

Cool. Thanks guys!

[hgiles]

The Japanese images that appeal the most to me consist of some animate (or spirit) object, plant life, and weather effect.

e.g.

1 Tiger- peony - wind bars

2 Koi - cherry blossoms - waves

3 Kitsune - spidermums - fire

4 Snake - maple leaves - vortex

...any more or any less seems to screw it up for me. I didn't read this in any book, but my theory seems to hold try for my own aesthetic anyhow.