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A timeless embodiment the world over of man’s inherent folly and foolishness, the clown has journeyed far from its humble theatrical roots to frequently terrifying counterparts.
Stephen King’s nightmare-inducing Pennywise is the perfect horror fan homage, while the more comforting face of Ronald McDonald no doubt invokes the very essence of American childhood.
Perhaps you are drawn to the elegant clowns of Victorian circuses and picture books, the bright and cartoonish figures of the early 20th century, or one of Disney’s many memorable jesters; regardless of one’s personal penchant there is much to be mined from this timeless fool that is anything but.
While the clown has undergone many interpretations over time, there is no denying the deeper–and often sadder–meaning beneath the iconic greasepaint grin. It has been said that comedy is the inverse of tragedy, that the “fool” is often the keenest of observers and harshest of truth-tellers–is it possible you could say the same for yourself?
Are you the class clown or comic relief in your own family or group of friends, frequently taken for granted or even abused when in fact nothing gets past you and all is deeply–sometimes painfully–felt?
If so, the clown may be your guide and guardian while you trip across the stage of life.
Clown tattoo design idea inspiration
Different and famous clowns worth checking out: 1. Bozo the Clown: Bozo the Clown is one of the most iconic clowns in history. He was created in 1946 by Alan W. Livingston and made his debut in the children’s record album “Bozo at the Circus”. Bozo was a lovable, red-haired clown with a big nose and a white face. He was known for his catchphrase “Hey, Kids!” and his signature laugh. Bozo was featured in many television shows, movies, and books throughout the years.
2. Emmett Kelly: Emmett Kelly was an American circus clown who was best known for his sad-faced character “Weary Willie”. He began performing in the 1930s and quickly became one of the most popular clowns in the world. He was known for his unique style of clowning which included physical comedy, pantomime, and improvisation.
3. Clarabell the Clown: Clarabell the Clown was a popular character on the children’s television show “The Howdy Doody Show” which aired from 1947 to 1960. Clarabell was played by Bob Keeshan who later went on to become Captain Kangaroo. Clarabell was known for his silent clowning and often communicated with the audience through gestures and mime.
4. Ronald McDonald: Ronald McDonald is the mascot of the McDonald’s fast food chain. He is a red-haired clown with a yellow jumpsuit and red shoes. He is known for his catchphrase “I’m lovin’ it!” and his signature laugh. Ronald McDonald has been featured in many television commercials, movies, and books throughout the years.
5. Krusty the Clown: Krusty the Clown is a cartoon character from “The Simpsons” who is voiced by Dan Castellaneta. He is an overweight, cigar-smoking clown who often gets into trouble due to his irresponsible behavior. Despite this, he is still beloved by many fans of the show.
6. The Great Zucchini: The Great Zucchini is a Washington D.C.-based children’s entertainer who has been performing since 1985. He is known for his zany antics and outrageous costumes which often involve him dressing up as various characters such as Santa Claus or a superhero.
7. Otto Griebling: Otto Griebling was an Austrian clown who performed in circuses throughout Europe during the early 20th century. He was known for his unique style of clowning which included physical comedy, pantomime, and improvisation. He was also known for his signature costume which consisted of a bright yellow suit with red polka dots and a large red nose.
8. Coco the Clown: Coco the Clown was a popular French clown who performed in circuses throughout Europe during the early 20th century. He was known for his unique style of clowning which included physical comedy, pantomime, and improvisation. He was also known for his signature costume which consisted of a bright yellow suit with red polka dots and a large red nose.
9. Patchy the Pirate: Patchy the Pirate is a cartoon character from “SpongeBob SquarePants” who is voiced by Tom Kenny. He is an enthusiastic pirate who often gets into trouble due to his naivety and enthusiasm for adventure. Despite this, he is still beloved by many fans of the show.
10. Pogo the Clown: Pogo the Clown is a popular British clown who has been performing since 1978. He is known for his zany antics and outrageous costumes which often involve him dressing up as various characters such as Santa Claus or a superhero. He is also known for his signature catchphrase “It’s Pogo time!”
11. The Joker: The Joker is a fictional supervillain from DC Comics who first appeared in 1940’s “Batman #1” comic book series. He is an insane criminal mastermind who often uses humor to get what he wants from people or to cause chaos in Gotham City. The Joker has been portrayed by many actors throughout the years including Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger, and Jared Leto.
12. Ronald O’Connor: Ronald O’Connor was an American circus clown who performed in circuses throughout Europe during the early 20th century. He was known for his unique style of clowning which included physical comedy, pantomime, and improvisation. He was also known for his signature costume which consisted of a bright yellow suit with red polka dots and a large red nose.
Clown tattoo meanings and symbolism:
What do clown themed designs mean and symbolize?: Clowns have been a part of popular culture for centuries, and their symbolism has evolved over time. In the past, clowns were seen as a source of entertainment, but in recent years they have become associated with fear and horror. The clown is often used as a symbol to represent the darker side of humanity, and it can be seen in many different forms of media.
The most common interpretation of clown symbolism is that it represents the duality of human nature. On one hand, clowns are often seen as silly and fun-loving characters who bring joy to those around them. On the other hand, they can also be viewed as sinister figures who bring terror and chaos to those who cross their path. This duality is often used to represent the good and bad aspects of human nature, and it can be seen in many different contexts.
In literature, clowns are often used to represent the darker side of life. They are often portrayed as sinister figures who bring chaos and destruction wherever they go. This can be seen in works such as Stephen King’s It or Neil Gaiman’s Coraline. In these stories, clowns are used to represent the evil that lurks beneath the surface of everyday life.
In film, clowns are often used to represent fear and horror. Movies such as Killer Klowns from Outer Space or Poltergeist use clowns to create an atmosphere of dread and terror. These films use clowns to illustrate how even seemingly harmless things can become dangerous when taken too far.
In art, clowns are often used to represent death or mortality. Many paintings depict clowns in a dark or macabre setting, which can be interpreted as a reminder that death is always lurking around the corner. This symbolism is also present in some sculptures, such as Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker which features a figure with a sad expression on its face surrounded by skulls and bones.
Clowns can also be found in popular culture today. Many horror films feature clown villains who bring terror and chaos wherever they go. Video games such as Five Nights at Freddy’s use clown characters to create an atmosphere of fear and suspense. Even television shows such as American Horror Story have featured creepy clown characters who embody evil forces that must be overcome by the protagonists.
The meaning behind clowns has evolved over time from being primarily associated with entertainment to representing fear and horror in popular culture today. Clowns are often used to illustrate the duality of human nature by representing both good and bad aspects of life simultaneously. They are also commonly used in literature, film, art, video games, and television shows to create an atmosphere of dread or suspense for viewers or players alike.
