Aera

Design Story

The turtle (family) is central within this Polynesian manta tattoo designed for Jeffrey and it is surrounded by a sun for joy and eternity.
Braids symbolize union, next to the sun because the moments together bring him joy, while the two tiki looking in opposite directions protect the family from all sides.

The couple on the shell of the turtle protects the three children represented by the frangipani flowers, with flax leaves as a symbol of family unity.
The fish hook on a back flipper represents prosperity, and the chasing birds on the other are for support always granted to the loved ones.

The front flippers are waves for the ocean, with mountains representing islands.
The molina (flight of the albatross) symbolizes a long voyage with safe return, and fish below the waves a passion for diving.

The ahuahu o Mataora is a challenging path representing his job, with a gecko for protection and health and its tail made of spearheads to symbolize the warrior, strength and tenacity.

The image below helps identifying the individual elements within the tattoo: