Feti'a

Design Story

This Polynesian half sleeve tattoo represents important aspects of Harald's life.

The turtle and the manta are central on the shoulder, with a manaia, a hammerhead shark, and a lizard protecting them.

The two tiki on the front flippers of the turtle bring family protection from all sides, with the couple symbol and 3 enata representing their children (the flax leaves below them represent family unity, like the braid surrounding the turtle).
The sun around it symbolizes joy and eternity while the manta above the turtle is for beauty and freedom, and we placed stars between the turtle and the manta to symbolize both direction and Harold's passion for star gazing.

The puhoro motif on the armband, enclosed within the steps of Mataora, symbolizes endurance and physical prowess to face any challenge and change (the waves), with adaptability and tenacity (the hammerhead shark, octopus tentacles, and shark teeth).

Fish symbolize prosperity and mountains stability.

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