Tattoos serve as powerful reminders of important life events, personal interests and loved ones. A growing trend in the tattoo community is the use of these permanent pieces of art as a way to show solidarity with, and inclusion in, the rising number of individuals effected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD.
ASD, a neuro-neurological developmental disorder, affects one in 59 American children. It is generally characterised by difficulties in language comprehension and expression as well as poor eye contact and socialization problems.
Because of the growing incidence of ASD, and the interconnectedness that the internet has made possible, people from all walks of the globe have been able to create support groups for ASD.
As we will see, the puzzle piece is an important symbol in the community and represents the complex nature of the disorder and the importance of helping each other to “solve the puzzle.”
Animal Autism Tattoos
Animals have been incorporated in tattoos since the beginning: some of the earliest tattoos used animals and other natural design elements.
Animals in relation to autism have a different significance. ASD researchers have discovered the importance of animal therapy in helping children with autism. They also found that animals can be used to help them develop social skills.
These are some examples, which incorporate animals into autism tattoos.
This lovely tattoo features an image taken from a Disney film to symbolize unity among those with ASD.
The multi-colored puzzle pieces on the shell prominently display the importance of this issue to the wearer, who possibly chose this character based on their child’s love of the movie. The tattoo is very well done.
This tattoo is a great example of the use of gradated colors instead of black linework. It is a skillfully used technique to create shadows, highlights and a cartoon-like image.
This beautiful, black-gray tattoo lets the wearer display their commitment to ASD awareness wherever they go. The boldly placed piece is boldly placed on the hand and features smooth whip shading and clean lines to create an illustration of a bumblebee.
The puzzle piece is taken from one wing and conveys the importance ASD has in people’s lives. It is also fascinating to see how a bee was chosen. It may also have deeper meanings, but bees are social creatures and can survive because of their strong communities and teamwork. This is a tribute to the struggles of people with ASD to socialize.
Autism Quote Tattoos
Another common theme for tattoos is the incorporation of script that is meaningful to the wearer. It can be frustrating for parents and loved ones to have to deal with this disorder. Sometimes, simple words are all they need to remind them that love will prevail.
These beautiful tattoos feature motivational quotes that show how they love their ASD family members.
This beautiful design uses familiar elements to make an interesting tattoo. Multicolored puzzles are an obvious symbol of ASD awareness. A heart-shaped balloon, which is most likely a sign that a son/daughter is affected by the disorder, is also a common symbol. This piece’s script is well-thought out and executed.
The smooth cursive script reads “Different not less”, a common sentiment in the ASD support community. This is a unique piece that permanently demonstrates the wearer’s dedication to ASD awareness.
Black and Gray Autism Tattoos
Black and gray designs have a long history in the tattoo world, often favored for their understated nature and classic look. The multi-colored puzzle symbol is an universal symbol of ASD. However, these less intense black and gray pieces can still perfectly express the emotions that are associated with the personal struggle with ASD.
Here is another puzzle piece used to commemorate the importance of ASD in the wearer’s life. This tattoo features a balanced composition and smooth linework. A simple lining to cover the paisley design inside the puzzle piece creates an elegant, unique tattoo.
A prominent placement on the forearm signifies the importance of ASD to the wearer.
Feather Autism Tattoos
Feathers have become an increasingly common element in tattooing in the last five years, specifically for women. Feathers are a symbol of lightheartedness, delicate nature, and beauty.
Feathers are also popular in autism tattoos. This could be because of the same characteristics. Although the subtle nod to the influential and well-respected ASD memoir Do Lemons Have Feathers? may also be an indication that feathers have gained popularity.
These beautiful tattoos use feathers in a variety of ways.
Floral Autism Tattoos
People have been decorating their bodies with flowers for years, with different flowers often representing different traits and characteristics.
Roses are often associated with love, while daisies can be used to represent innocence and youth. Here, flowers are used to personalize a piece and create unique designs to commemorate the wearer’s love for a family member with ASD.
This is a beautiful, black and gray tattoo that makes use of the puzzle piece to convey the wearer’s dedication to ASD awareness. This tiny piece is created using smooth shading and fine linework to create realistic flowers within the well balanced puzzle piece.
The detail is amazing. The delicate shading and use of negative spaces for highlights makes the flowers pop. It also maintains a sophisticated aesthetic. This small memorial to ASD is beautiful.
Heart Autism Tattoos
The heart is a common theme in tattoos. While some people prefer a traditional, stylized heart to communicate their emotions, others prefer an anatomically accurate design.
The heart, regardless of its style, is the most well-known symbol for love. It is used regularly to celebrate both familial and romantic passions.
These are some of the most powerful ways to express your strongest emotion: love.
Large Autism Tattoos
Sometimes the best way to display the importance of the subject of a tattoo is to go big. There is little surprise then that some of these tattoos commemorating a parent’s never ending love for their child use big and bold designs. These large tattoos are dedicated to people with ASD.
This is a lovely full color piece that will serve as a memorial to the impact of ASD in the wearer’s life. The line work is consistent, precise, and flawless in the multi-colored puzzle pieces.
It is also very interesting in terms of the design and composition. The three-dimensional effect created by perspective is well executed. This adds depth to the tattoo, which sets it apart from other similar designs.
Linear Autism Tattoos
Sometimes simple is best. Many people love big, bold tattoos. However, small, delicate tattoos can be just as appealing. Sometimes, these pieces are not meant to be appreciated by anyone but the wearer.
ASD tattoos can have simple, straight-line designs that mean more to the wearer of the tattoo than any other full body tattoo.
Rainbow-Colored Autism Tattoos
As demonstrated in previous examples, the multi-colored puzzle design is important in the ASD awareness movement. Many people only use the puzzle design, but some people use rainbow colors to show solidarity with the ASD communities.
The multi-colored design in this group represents the fact that all people can be affected equally by this severe disorder.
Ribbon Autism Tattoos
Ribbons have become highly visible way to show solidarity with different groups of people, from cancer survivors and those suffering with HIV/AIDS.
The rainbow-colored, puzzle ribbon is the Autism Society’s international symbol for ASD awareness and has become a common element in ASD tattoos. These are just a few examples that include this powerful symbol.
Traditional Autism Tattoos
American Traditional style tattoos are popular because of their classic sensibility and bold colors. Here this same striking style is utilized to commemorate the wearer’s dedication to ASD while creating a timeless tattoo.
Watercolor Autism Tattoos
This style is invokes a child-like innocence and naivety while still creating lovely colorful designs. Given the large number of ASD-afflicted children, it is not surprising that this style is so popular for ASD tattoos.
FAQ:
Q1. What are some popular autism tattoo designs?
A1. Puzzle pieces, infinity symbols, and colorful ribbons are popular autism tattoo designs that are often used to raise awareness for autism.
Q2. Can you suggest some meaningful autism tattoo quotes?
A2. “Different, not less.” or “Autism is not a tragedy, ignorance is.” are some meaningful autism tattoo quotes that can be used to show support for individuals with autism.
Q3. What colors are associated with autism?
A3. Blue and yellow are the primary colors associated with autism.
Q4. Are there any famous people with autism who have tattoos?
A4. Temple Grandin, a famous autism advocate, has a tattoo of a cattle brand on her arm to represent her love for animals and her work in the livestock industry.
Q5. How can I ensure my autism tattoo is respectful and accurate?
A5. Do your research and work with a reputable tattoo artist who is familiar with autism. Consider consulting with individuals with autism or their families to ensure your tattoo is respectful and accurate.
