Japanese Tiger and Sakura sleeve by TomTom

TomTom recently completed this full sleeve Japanese tiger tattoo featuring Sakura blossoms and petals. This tattoo, rooted in Japanese tradition, combines the strength of the tiger with the ephemeral beauty of sakura blossoms to create a striking visual narrative.

In Japanese culture, the tiger symbolises strength, courage, and protection. Known as "tora," it holds a prominent place in folklore as a guardian spirit. Depicted with bold lines and dynamic poses, the tiger in a Japanese sleeve tattoo commands attention, representing resilience and determination.

Contrasting with the tiger's strength, sakura blossoms symbolise the fleeting nature of life and the beauty of impermanence. These delicate flowers, celebrated during Hanami festivals, remind us to cherish the present moment. In a tattoo sleeve, sakura blossoms add depth and symbolism, representing renewal and the passage of time.

The Japanese sleeve tattoo featuring a tiger and sakura blossoms is a captivating blend of tradition and personal expression. Through the strength of the tiger and the beauty of sakura, this tattoo style tells a story of resilience, impermanence, and the timeless struggle between opposing forces.

The Timeless Symbolism of the Hawk and Snake Battle Royale Tattoo

In the realm of tattoo artistry, certain motifs carry profound symbolism that transcends trends and fads, speaking to the enduring complexities of the human experience. Among these, the hawk and snake battle royale tattoo stands as a testament to the eternal struggle between opposing forces, the delicate balance of power and vulnerability, and the inexorable march of life and death.

By TomTom

Mythological Roots:

The imagery of a hawk locked in combat with a snake finds its origins in ancient mythologies and cultural narratives spanning the globe. In various traditions, both creatures symbolize potent and contrasting aspects of existence. The hawk, with its soaring flight and piercing gaze, embodies qualities of strength, vision, and nobility. Conversely, the snake, with its sinuous movements and enigmatic nature, represents wisdom, transformation, and the cyclical nature of existence.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

Interpreted through the lens of tattoo artistry, the hawk and snake motif invites contemplation on themes of conflict, resilience, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. Some may see in it a metaphor for the battle between the conscious and unconscious mind, with the hawk representing clarity and rationality, and the snake embodying primal instincts and hidden desires. Others may view it as a reminder of the precarious balance between order and chaos, strength and vulnerability, as symbolised by the delicate dance between predator and prey.

Personal Meaning:

For those who choose to adorn their skin with this iconic imagery, the hawk and snake tattoo often carries deeply personal significance. It may serve as a talisman of strength and protection, a reminder of past struggles overcome, or a symbol of the ongoing journey toward self-discovery and growth. Each wearer brings their own story to the tattoo, infusing it with layers of meaning that resonate uniquely with their own experiences and aspirations.

Japanese Snake and Chrysanthemum Sleeve by Horiyama

Japanese irezumi tattoos are steeped in tradition and symbolism, often telling intricate stories through their designs. One popular motif is the combination of a snake and chrysanthemum sleeve tattoo, each element carrying its own significant meaning.

The Snake: Symbol of Power and Resilience

In Japanese culture, the snake holds diverse symbolism, often associated with power, protection, and transformation. Known as "hebi," it represents agility, stealth, and adaptability. In folklore, snakes are revered as guardians of sacred spaces and possessors of esoteric knowledge.

When incorporated into tattoos, the snake often embodies resilience and personal growth. Its sinuous form wrapping around the wearer's arm or torso signifies protection against adversity and the ability to shed old skin, metaphorically embracing change and renewal.

The Chrysanthemum: Emblem of Beauty and Impermanence

The chrysanthemum, or "kiku," carries its own significance in Japanese culture. As the national flower of Japan, it symbolizes beauty, elegance, and the transient nature of life. Often associated with autumn, it serves as a reminder to cherish fleeting moments and embrace the inevitability of change.

In tattoos, the chrysanthemum adds a touch of grace and delicacy to the design. Its intricate petals and vibrant colors contrast with the snake's dynamic energy, creating a visual balance that speaks to the harmony of opposites.

Synthesis: Blending Strength and Beauty

The combination of the snake and chrysanthemum in a sleeve tattoo represents a harmonious blend of strength and beauty, resilience and grace. It reflects the wearer's journey of personal growth and transformation, acknowledging life's complexities and embracing them with courage and dignity.

Beyond their individual symbolism, these elements come together to create a narrative that is deeply personal to the wearer. Whether it signifies overcoming challenges, embracing change, or honoring cultural heritage, the snake and chrysanthemum sleeve tattoo is a testament to the enduring power of body art as a form of self-expression and storytelling.

In conclusion, the Japanese irezumi snake and chrysanthemum sleeve tattoo is a striking fusion of tradition, symbolism, and personal meaning. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the beauty found in life's fleeting moments, serving as a powerful reminder to embrace change and find strength in adversity.

Clipper Ship by Gordy Evelyn

Gordy recently got to tattoo one of the classics, a traditional clipper ship. Have a read below about the history and origin of this classic imagery.

Clipper Ship by Gordy Evelyn

History

Originating in the maritime culture of the 19th century, traditional clipper ship tattoos hold a storied history deeply intertwined with the experiences of sailors. As sailors spent months or years at sea, these tattoos became a way to commemorate their connection to the vessels that defined their livelihoods. Clipper ships, renowned for their speed and grace, were often depicted in full sail, symbolizing the sailors' resilience and affinity for the sea.

Traditional Tattoo Aesthetics

Traditional clipper ship tattoos are emblematic of the broader traditional tattoo style, characterized by bold outlines, limited color palettes, and iconic imagery. This style, also known as American Traditional or Old School, emerged in the early days of Western tattooing and remains popular due to its timeless appeal. The simplicity and clarity of traditional tattoo designs ensure their enduring relevance and recognition.

Navigating Modern Waters

Despite technological advancements and changes in maritime practices, traditional clipper ship tattoos continue to resonate as symbols of adventure and exploration. Whether adorning the skin of seasoned sailors or landlocked enthusiasts, these tattoos serve as reminders of the courage to navigate life's challenges and embrace the unknown.

Traditional clipper ship tattoos endure as timeless symbols of maritime heritage and personal resilience. Rooted in history yet relevant in contemporary tattoo culture, they evoke a sense of adventure and connection to the sea. As they sail through time, these iconic tattoos continue to inspire and captivate those drawn to their enduring allure.

Piwakawaka and PohUtukawa Sleeve by TomTom

In the realm of tattoo art, a captivating fusion of cultures has emerged, blending traditional Japanese motifs with indigenous symbols from New Zealand. Among these, the Piwakawaka (New Zealand fantail) and Pohutukawa tree stand out for their symbolism and visual appeal - Tom jumped at the chance to do something a little different when this client request came through!

In Maori mythology, the Piwakawaka is revered as a messenger from the spiritual realm, embodying traits of agility, curiosity, and protection. In Japanese tattoo art, it symbolizes freedom and the fleeting nature of life, often depicted against a backdrop of black and grey, with vibrant colors highlighting its presence.

Known as the "New Zealand Christmas tree," the Pohutukawa symbolizes resilience and enduring beauty. In Japanese tattoo art, it represents solace and renewal, often set against serene landscapes rendered in black and grey, with the crimson blooms of the tree standing out as a colorful foreground.

The fusion of Piwakawaka and Pohutukawa motifs in Japanese tattoo art celebrates unity and diversity, weaving stories that transcend cultural boundaries. In Auckland, renowned tattoo artists adeptly blend these indigenous symbols with traditional Japanese techniques, creating stunning pieces that honor both cultures and the natural world.