Hannya and Snake Arm Sleeve

Gordy recently completed this Hannya and Snake sleeve for Mitchell.

In Japanese culture, the Hannya mask represents a woman transformed by jealousy and rage into a demon. Despite its fearsome appearance, it symbolizes the complexity of human emotions and the journey through personal struggles. As a tattoo, it stands for resilience and the acceptance of one’s inner darkness.

The snake in Japanese art signifies rebirth and transformation, thanks to its ability to shed its skin. It also serves as a protector and a symbol of wisdom. In a tattoo, it represents personal growth and the protective forces guiding us through life’s challenges.

Sakura are celebrated for their fleeting beauty, representing the impermanence of life. They remind us to appreciate the beauty in life’s transient moments. In tattoos, they add elegance and a poignant reminder of life’s ephemeral nature.

Combining these elements in an arm sleeve creates a powerful narrative. The Hannya mask’s emotional depth contrasts with the sakura’s delicate beauty, while the snake weaves through both, symbolizing protection and renewal. This design not only makes a bold visual statement but also tells a story of resilience, growth, and the beauty of impermanence.

Hannya and Snake sleeve by Gordy Evelyn

SPRING IS FOR FLORALS

Spring is almost here and there’s no better time to explore the beauty of floral tattoos. From delicate cherry blossoms to vibrant peonies, here’s a few of our favourite floral pieces.

Cherry Blossoms: The Quintessential Spring Flower

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a symbol of fleeting beauty and the transient nature of life. Originating from Japanese culture, these delicate pink blooms are cherished for their ethereal appearance and graceful symbolism. A cherry blossom tattoo can be a stunning tribute to new beginnings and the beauty of impermanence. Whether you choose a full sleeve of cherry blossoms or a single bloom, this design adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Peonies: The Luxe Bloom

Peonies are synonymous with lush beauty and romance. These voluminous flowers, with their layers of soft petals, represent prosperity, good fortune, and a flourishing spirit. A peony tattoo is perfect for those who appreciate bold, intricate designs and want to make a statement. Their vibrant colors and detailed textures make them a standout choice for those looking to add a touch of opulence to their ink.

Roses: Classic and Timeless

Roses are a perennial favorite in the world of tattoos, and for good reason. They symbolize love, passion, and beauty, making them a versatile choice for a range of designs. Whether you’re drawn to the classic red rose or a more unique color palette, rose tattoos can be tailored to fit your personal style. From traditional, realistic depictions to modern, abstract interpretations, roses never go out of fashion.

Chrysanthemums: A Symbol of Resilience

In many cultures, chrysanthemums are seen as symbols of resilience and endurance. These hardy flowers bloom in a variety of colors and shapes, each with its own meaning. A chrysanthemum tattoo can represent strength, positivity, and a bright outlook on life. Their intricate petals and striking appearance make them a popular choice for detailed, eye-catching designs.

Fine Line Flowers: Delicate and Refined

For those who appreciate subtlety and elegance, fine line floral tattoos offer a refined and minimalist aesthetic. These designs feature delicate line work and soft shading, capturing the essence of flowers in a sophisticated manner. Fine line flowers are perfect for anyone looking for a tattoo that exudes grace and simplicity. From single stems to intricate arrangements, fine line tattoos provide a timeless and elegant way to celebrate the beauty of nature.

Why Choose Floral Tattoos This Spring?

Spring is the season of renewal and growth, making it the ideal time to embrace floral tattoos. Flowers symbolize a wide range of emotions and attributes, from love and beauty to resilience and new beginnings. Choosing a floral tattoo not only celebrates the season but also allows you to carry a meaningful symbol with you.

Tui and Manuka blossom Japanese arm sleeve by TomTom

TomTom recently completed this Tui and Manuka blossom arm sleeve.

The Tui, native to New Zealand, is recognised for its distinctive appearance and song. In tattoo art, the Tui symbolises attributes such as grace, adaptability, and resilience. Its iridescent feathers and striking form can add a sense of dynamism and elegance to a tattoo design, reflecting a connection to nature and a celebration of its inherent beauty.

Manuka blossoms are known for their delicate appearance and vibrant colours. They are often associated with themes of purity, renewal, and healing due to their medicinal properties and visual appeal. In Japanese tattoos, Manuka blossoms introduce a layer of symbolic meaning that complements the natural elements of the design, representing personal growth and the restorative qualities of nature.

When combined in a tattoo, the Tui bird and Manuka blossoms can create a design that is both visually striking and rich in meaning. The Tui’s detailed feathers and the soft, intricate petals of the Manuka blossoms should be thoughtfully integrated to achieve a balanced and cohesive design. This combination allows for a tattoo that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also carries a depth of personal and symbolic significance.

TomTom planned the placement of the three Tui’s in this sleeve to ensure he would be able to have them in different positions and showcase the wings. The placement of the central Tui on the bicep allows for a design with its wings fully spread, creating an impactful and visually expansive effect. Such a placement not only emphasises the Tui’s graceful flight but also ensures that the design remains a prominent and eye-catching feature of the tattoo.

Hebi and Peony Back Piece

Horiyama recently completed this Japanese Hebi (snake) and peony full back tattoo on her client Jared.

In Japanese tattoos, snakes are more than just cool creatures. They symbolise transformation and rebirth because they shed their skin and start fresh. This makes them a powerful symbol of personal growth and new beginnings. Plus, in Japanese culture, snakes are often seen as protectors that ward off bad luck and evil spirits. They have a sacred vibe too, sometimes linked with spiritual forces or deities.

Peonies, on the other hand, are all about beauty and symbolism. Known as the "King of Flowers," they stand for prosperity, good fortune, and high status. With their lush, vibrant petals, peonies bring a touch of elegance and abundance to any tattoo. They also represent bravery and honour, thriving even in tough conditions. So, a peony tattoo can symbolise strength and courage.

When you mix snakes with peonies in a full back tattoo, you get an artwork that's both powerful and beautiful. The snake’s winding form paired with the peony’s rich petals creates a dynamic, balanced design. It’s like a visual story of strength and grace, danger and elegance.

This combination tells a story of personal growth and resilience. The snake’s curve can symbolise your journey through challenges, while the peony’s bloom represents the beauty and strength you find in overcoming them.


Watanabe No Tsuna and the Ibaraki Demon

In the world of Japanese tattoo artistry, every motif carries profound cultural significance, often tracing its roots back to ancient legends and folklore. One such captivating tale immortalised through intricate ink is that of Watanabe No Tsuna and the Ibaraki Demon. TomTom recently completed a full back piece rendition of this ancient story.

In the Heian period of Japanese history, during the 10th century, tales of supernatural encounters were commonplace. Watanabe No Tsuna, a brave and skilled warrior known for his loyalty and courage, found himself embroiled in a chilling encounter with the Ibaraki Demon, a malevolent spirit haunting the Rashomon gate in Kyoto.

Legend has it that the Ibaraki Demon appeared in the guise of an old woman by day but transformed into a fearsome entity by night, terrorising anyone who dared to pass through the gate. Tsuna, hearing of this menace, accepted the challenge to confront the demon, armed with his wits and his legendary sword.

In a dramatic showdown at the Rashomon gate, Tsuna faced the Ibaraki Demon in a fierce battle of strength and will. With strategic prowess and unyielding bravery, Tsuna outwitted the demon, severing its arm in a decisive blow. The severed arm, with its supernatural power, became a symbol of Tsuna's triumph over evil.

The tale of Watanabe No Tsuna and the Ibaraki Demon has been immortalised in Japanese art and culture, particularly in the intricate designs of Irezumi, or traditional Japanese tattoos. These tattoos often adorn the backs of individuals seeking to embody the resilience, bravery, and triumph over adversity that Tsuna exemplified.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, the Japanese full back tattoo serves as a tribute to the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore and history. Each element—Tsuna's stoic determination, the Ibaraki Demon's malevolence, and the decisive battle at Rashomon—speaks volumes about the wearer's journey, struggles, and ultimate victories.

Embracing such a tattoo is not merely a choice of body art but a declaration of reverence for Japanese folklore and the enduring spirit of heroes like Watanabe No Tsuna. It is a story inked onto the canvas of one's skin, honouring tradition while celebrating personal strength and resilience.

In essence, the tale of Watanabe No Tsuna and the Ibaraki Demon lives on through the art of Irezumi—a timeless testament to the power of storytelling and the indelible mark of courage on the human spirit.