Aihau

Design Story

We prepared the original Aihau manta tattoo for Jean-Marc, and he eventually asked us to extend and integrate it into a Polynesian half sleeve and pec tattoo.

The most recurrent elements are waves (change), spearheads (courage and tenacity, the warrior), and shark teeth (adaptability and protection).
The warrior on the center of the shoulder represents him, taking his life into his hands to make important changes.

The hammerhead shark and the lizard are the two guardians of this change, bringing tenacity, determination, health and good luck on the steps of his path (the ahuahu o Mataora).
The path of Kamehameha in the past shows a path full of challenges while in the future side there is an octopus tentacle for adaptability and tenacity, bringing a new start (the koru).

The path to knowledge shows the way to his new life (surrounded by a sun for joy), while fish, fish hook, and coconut leaves are all symbols of prosperity.

The colored image below helps identifying the individual elements: