News & Insights

Isar Oakmund shares seven historically grounded Viking Age tattoo designs worth getting, from wolves and ravens to godmasks, wyrms, Yggdrasil and the Valknut, each rooted in named archaeological artefacts and the real visual language of the Norse world. The companion piece to the tattoos you should not get.

In Norse mythology, animals are not symbolic in the modern sense; they are active participants. So if you are thinking of getting a tattoo of one of these lovely beasties, it’s best to learn about their story and symbolism.

Did Vikings have tattoos? Explore the historical evidence, Ibn Fadlan’s account, and what archaeology really shows.

Peter Oakmund responde a las preguntas candentes sobre la Máscara de Dios en Internet

Have you ever thought about what tattoos we seem to think are viking tattoos but are completely made up? Today we go through some examples and tell you the real meaning behind them.

From the first silver arm rings hacked into trade-weight, to the serpent brooches buried with queens, Viking jewellery was never just about beauty. It was magic, oath, and wealth you could wear on your skin. It told the gods you believed, it told your kin where you stood, and it told strangers how far your people had travelled.

Have you ever wanted a deeper look into our best selling book called The Viking Art Tome but never got the chance? This is the place to be and place to read up on what secrets does the Viking Art Tome carry. Join us as we dive deep into how this tome got made and what can you expect inside.

At Northern Black, our location near Whitley Bay immerses us daily in the legacy left by Vikings over a millennium ago. The influence of these ancient Norse explorers on our contemporary lives and practices, both intentional and unintentional, is profound. Isar Oakmund brings a personal connection to this history, hailing from Scandinavia himself. This blend of past and present inspired us to explore and share how Viking traditions have shaped the towns around our studio and continue to impact our community today.

Discover the world of Nordic tattoo artistry with Northern Black. In this blog, explore the work of five standout Nordic tattooists who have made a global impact. Join us in celebrating their talent and ambition in the captivating world of Nordic tattoos.