Fern leaf

Design Story

This small feminine Polynesian tattoo was prepared for Tabatha to go on the side of her neck, and it is shaped to recall a fern frond when seen from a distance.

A closer look shows three main composing elements: a lotus flower, a seashell, and a manta.

The lotus flower symbolizes overcoming adversities (represented by the swirls in the stem, looking like small leaves).

The manta symbolizes freedom and beauty, with Tabatha's sons represented by the two koru surrounded by a sun made of mountains (joy and stability).
The frangipani next to them is a symbol of femininity and safe shelter, and the two chasing birds on top symbolize that support will always be granted to them.

The path from the lotus to the manta goes through love, the seashell.

The colored image below shows the main elements within the tattoo: