Inked Mag Staff
August 19th, 2020
Are You Afraid of Scary Clown Tattoos?
Check out some of our favorite scary clown tattoos from talented artists around the world.
Coulrophobia, fear of clowns, is one of the most common phobias and according to a study by Chapman University, it impacts roughly 7.8 percent of Americans. The role of a clown has been shown in many different cultures throughout history, from the performers of Ancient Egypt to the tricksters in Native American mythology to the court jesters of the European medieval period. The modern clown is often associated with the circus and came into popularity during the sideshow movement of the late 19th and early 20th century.
In the Western world, one of the first evil clowns was featured in the 1849 short story “Hop-Frog” by Edgar Allen Poe, which follows a court jester who murders the kingdom. More contemporary examples of the evil clown trope include Stephen King’s “It,” and the Joker. The evil clown trope became a true crime phenomenon because of serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who regularly performed at children’s hospitals as Pogo or Patches the Clown. Today, there are tons of examples of evil clowns throughout popular culture, spanning from television depictions in “American Horror Story” to the zombie clowns featured in the video game “Left 4 Dead 2.” Filmmakers and designers certainly aren’t making it easy for people with coulrophobia, but neither are tattoo artists.
There are tons of tattooers from around the world who’ve created terrifying evil clown tattoos—both taking inspiration from beloved characters and pulling the creatures from their own imagination. Take a look at some of our favorite scary clown tattoos in the gallery below, then let us know if you’re afraid of clowns in the comments section on social media.
Editor's Picks
Met Gala 2025: The Best Tattooed Celebrity Looks
At the 2025 Met Gala, inked celebrities like Rihanna, Cardi B, and Lewis Hamilton proved tattoos are the ultimate high-fashion accessory.
May the 4th Ink Be With You: Best Star Wars Tattoos for Superfans
Celebrate Star Wars Day with tattoos that showcase the Force—from Darth Vader portraits to minimalist Baby Yoda ink. May the ink be with you!
Diplo, Jelly Roll, Zach Bryan, and More: Highlights from Stagecoach 2025
Stagecoach 2025 delivered epic performances, unforgettable moments, and nonstop energy under the desert skies of Indio, California.
More From News Content
A Game-Changing Innovation for Tattoo Artists
May 13, 2025
Tattoo Insurance Mistakes Artists Still Make
May 5, 2025
Gifts She’ll Love: Mother’s Day Picks from Inked
April 28, 2025
