Star tattoos are often chosen by those going for their first tattoo. The appeal is that star designs can be small, decorative and have positive meanings attached to them. A single star tattoo can be added to over time to create a scattering of stars across the skin, similar to the Milky Way.
Star Tattoos are Symbolic Skin Art
Stars are a symbol of strength. Each night when we look to the sky, as human beings have done for thousands of years, we see stars, just as our ancestors did. Stars have a much longer lifespan that human beings and will outlive us all eventually. The stamina of stars makes them a symbol of determination, patience and strength.
Stars are often displayed with other symbolic designs in tattoos. This flying star and crown is a symbol of personal pride and strength. This person feels the freedom of being in control of their own life. [source]
The star is associated with higher powers such as gods, governments and the law. In America, a sheriff’s badge is in the shape of a star, symbolizing that her has the law on his side and is in the right. In this sense, star tattoos are a symbol of power and justice. Stars are often used in flags to represent power, strength and the law.
This unusual star tattoo combines the symbols of a sheriff’s badge and a human skull. Skulls are a symbol of finality, and a sheriff’s badge is a symbol of the law, meaning that this tattoo is a statement that the law is final. [source]
Stars have been associated with famous and notable people. In the world of stage and film, actors who have distinguished themselves and gained a fan following often have a large star on their dressing room door. This symbol of fame celebrates their talent as an actor and achievements as a public figure. Stars are used in the paving on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to celebrate great actors, directors and other film elite.
Star tattoos can be a symbol of fame or notoriety. A star within a star is a symbol of natural talent and greatness. [source]
Star symbols represent magic and mysticism. Wizards are often illustrated with robes or hats that are decorated with stars, and magical books will often have a star decorating the cover. In animation, magic tricks and spells are often accomplished in an explosion of stars – representing unexplained, otherworldly forces at play.
This avant garde star tattoo design boasts an eye at its center. This could be a representation of the “third eye”, also known as the “eye of the spirit” or it could be the watchful, protective eye of a god, deity or deceased loved one. [source]
Pain, confusion and shock are sometimes represented by a star. In illustration and animation, a physical blow is often exaggerated with stars to represent “seeing stars” – a s feeling of bewilderment and pain that follows physical trauma. Because of this link between stars and pain, stars can be used in tattoo designs to represent past trauma or to symbolize optimism and determination in the face of difficult times.
A collection of star tattoos can be added to over time, marking achievements in life and reminding a person to stay strong through hard times. [source]
Stars exist in the heavens, and are associated with dreams, wishes and ambitions. Wishing upon a star is a part of the magic of childhood. Children grant stars with the magical powers necessary to make wishes and dreams come true. “Reach for the stars” is an inspirational quote that is used to motivate people to aim high in life and work hard to achieve these lofty ambitions.
A “new age” star tattoo design. This tattoo symbolizes great ambitions and a sense of fun. [source]
Lucky stars are always five pointed. It is said that each point of the five pointed star represents a part of the human body, with the head at the top, arms in the center and the two supporting points at the bottom representing human legs. Because of their placement in the sky, stars can watch over the world. This protective gaze of heavenly beings is often portrayed in art with a simple five pointed star.
Stars are used in flags as a symbol of the government’s power, hanging over the people in a similar way that stars hang over Earth. This tattoo of American flag stars is ironic, because the American flag contains stars. [source]
Shooting stars are considered to be the luckiest and most magical of stars. Shooting stars move across the night sky quickly, which means that seeing one is a stroke of luck. These stars look a bit like fireworks, with their trail of sparkling light. Fireworks and shooting stars have similar symbolism; warding of darkness and danger, impressing enemies with light and granting luck to those who see the stars.
A cute shooting star tattoo decorates this girl’s hip. The trail behind the star is a rainbow, a colorful symbol of hope and joy. [source]
