Avanoa

Design Story

This Polynesian shoulder tattoo designed for Damjan is structured in three parts, with family being the central joining part between past (on the back of the arm) and future (on the front).

Shark teeth and a canoe in the past were used to symbolize speed and adventure, pushing the limits.
The flight of the albatross represents a voyage that leads back home, while thorns and fa´atigipusa symbolize hard times and pain caused by an accident.
The spearheads and the octopus tentacle symbolize strength, tenacity and adaptability leading to a new start (the koru).
Stepping stones symbolize things learnt, and the birds represent a new voyage that goes into a different direction.

Along this new path there are prosperity (fish and bonito tail) and family unity (the braid), with family being represented centrally by the couple protecting their four children, while the lokahi symbol represents harmony with nature, and the fish hook knowledge and prosperity.

The sun on top, with mountains inside, symbolizes joy and stability while the frigate bird represents this new perspective on life.

The colored image below helps identifying the main elements within the tattoo: