Saturday, December 12, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
the phantom of the opera
Comments: i did this tattoo of Lon Chaney from phantom of the opera the other day it took about 5 hours to do. its another example of new school with a realistic feel.. i dont wanna do full on realism, but i like adding that twist to it.. sean sat like a champ and it was an incredible time... were gonna do a full sleeve in that style..
the phantom of the opera
Comments: i did this tattoo of Lon Chaney from phantom of the opera the other day it took about 5 hours to do. its another example of new school with a realistic feel.. i dont wanna do full on realism, but i like adding that twist to it.. sean sat like a champ and it was an incredible time... were gonna do a full sleeve in that style..
Friday, November 13, 2009
Modern Maori tattoos (especially in the west) have moved from the face to the body. Long, twining spiral designs that were once placed near the ears or cheeks are now placed along the arms or legs. However, many Maori people find exact replicas of their art insulting. For this reason, many people who are not affiliated with the Maoris prefer to use designs inspired, but not directly taken from, these traditional styles.
One way to separate the Maori tattoos, and what could possibly be an insulting western
rendition is to use the striking spirals to create other symbols. For instance, rather than
using the rounded and graceful spirals, you could make a squared off version, and create an
interesting puzzle-like pattern. You could also use heavy lines and create a scene of waves, clouds, billowing winds, or even fire. Many people like to include reds and dark shades of blue into their designs; they will occasionally use orange and yellow as well if their patterns include things such as the sun, moon or stars. Metallic colors are generally used to produce weapon designs such as intricate knives, swords, or even throwing stars. Burgundy and purple can be used for a variety of spiraling flower blossoms.
Given the beauty of these designs, it may be tempting to delve into this style of art, but it is important to remember that they have a significant meaning to the Maori people. Tattooing is considered a sacred act, and must — like any other cultural symbol — be respected.
Modern Maori tattoos (especially in the west) have moved from the face to the body. Long, twining spiral designs that were once placed near the ears or cheeks are now placed along the arms or legs. However, many Maori people find exact replicas of their art insulting. For this reason, many people who are not affiliated with the Maoris prefer to use designs inspired, but not directly taken from, these traditional styles.
One way to separate the Maori tattoos, and what could possibly be an insulting western
rendition is to use the striking spirals to create other symbols. For instance, rather than
using the rounded and graceful spirals, you could make a squared off version, and create an
interesting puzzle-like pattern. You could also use heavy lines and create a scene of waves, clouds, billowing winds, or even fire. Many people like to include reds and dark shades of blue into their designs; they will occasionally use orange and yellow as well if their patterns include things such as the sun, moon or stars. Metallic colors are generally used to produce weapon designs such as intricate knives, swords, or even throwing stars. Burgundy and purple can be used for a variety of spiraling flower blossoms.
Given the beauty of these designs, it may be tempting to delve into this style of art, but it is important to remember that they have a significant meaning to the Maori people. Tattooing is considered a sacred act, and must — like any other cultural symbol — be respected.