Khmer Tattoo Designs are recognized in pop culture such as in Angelina Jolie’s left shoulder tattoo as seen most notably in the movie Wanted. What most people don’t realize is that Khmer is the Cambodian script, and language, so these specific tattoos have much more to it than just a beautiful design. This particular script is often seen representing a long Cambodian history often associated with the notorious and bloody communist regime led by Pol Pots in 70’s responsible for the massive millions of waves of murder, torture, and starvation. Such incredible history as behind Khmer is what inspires such tattoo designs and demands nothing less than perfection.
The script is often preferred lettering when it comes to tattoo designs so when considering this type of design, do not all take it lightly and ask yourself these questions:
- Do I believe in this quote / name / word / etc.?
- Does this design evoke emotion every time I see it?
- Will I feel the same way I do right now about this design as I will in let’s say 30 years?
So when considering this type of design, keep in mind the heart and spirit of the Cambodians and have something you truly believe in such as Angelina Jolie has with the Buddhist Incantation written in this script. Get a design true to yourself that you will be proud to wear, something that can be a centre of a conversation that describes with a story that always fills you and those around you with enduring emotions.