Rihanna's innovative and creative tattoos have become almost as iconic as her music. Since the early days of her career, when she got her first ink, each design has radiated a unique style that reflects what’s important to her.
From religious symbols and intimations of the family to words inscribed with life mantras – Rihanna’s body is an art display honoring everything she loves most, including herself. By exploring these robust designs and stories, we can learn more about this pop star than just how brilliant her songs are!
An overview of Rihanna's tattoos
Shutterstock/ Rihanna/ Instagram | Altogether, she has seven text pieces inked across her body
Musician Rihanna, who holds broad and deep interests in fashion, film, beauty, cuisine, art, and music, has added a unique element to her many pursuits--body art. Dubbed a "tattoo addict" by some fans, Rihanna has twelve tattoos adorning her body.
The star's most iconic tattoo is the handgun on her ribcage, which she got at 22 years old, along with two stars behind her ear. Each of Rihanna's designs is carefully thought out and reflects deep meaning.
She even got matching tattoos with a friend showing their unrivaled bond. Other tattoos include the word “love” on her finger depicting self-love, an Egyptian goddess Isis honoring her grandmother, and several musical notes combining her love of music with her passion for ink.
Although there is speculation about other hidden or covered-up tattoos perhaps only visible to Rihanna herself, these twelve have made a lasting statement on the multi-faceted star's life and look overall.
THEO WARGO/ WIREIMAGE | A large portion of Rihanna's tattoos are on her hands and fingers
The star tattoo
She had always been fascinated by the night sky and the stars, so when she saw the opportunity to express her love for stargazing through tattoo artwork, she jumped at it. Her star tattoo was more to her than a simple shape etched permanently in her skin; it held deep symbolic meaning for her.
To her, it represented the limitless possibilities of life ahead and the courage that these possibilities brought with them; she embraced her courage to do brave things and follow hidden pathways of adventure. Every time she looked at that star, she was reminded of how strong, capable, and determined she was to reach for all that life could bring.
TAYLOR HILL/ WIREIMAGE | Rihanna got one of her first tattoos in 2006
The inspiration for her Maori-style tattoos
Tama-Anna was a lifelong collector of tattoos, but when she took a trip to New Zealand, she found herself drawn to the traditional Maori styles. She studied their symbolism and saw how a single image could convey emotion and meaning.
From then on, Tama-Anna embraced tattoos inspired by these ancient art forms, transforming her body into an expansive canvas decorated with stories of her home, heritage, and identity.
Each time she proudly displays these intricate symbols, they remind her of our connections—no matter our birthplace or language and the legacy of perseverance that unites us.