Haatumu

Design Story

This Polynesian full sleeve tattoo was prepared for Miguel and it represents what is most important in his life, with family, both original and new one in the center.

The central turtle includes the couple representing him and his wife, joined by the braid (unity) through every change (the waves), and protected by the tiki hands.
The Marquesan cross symbolizes their harmony and the sun around the turtle is a symbol of eternity and joy, while coconut leaves represent prosperity, and mountains stability.

Below the turtle, the manta with flax leaves symbolizes freedom, fish and fish hook represent prosperity, providing for the family, and tiki hands are for protection.

There are enata to represent the original family, with symbols nearby that represent their individual characteristics, all connected by the braid to symbolize union and with ancestors above to guard on the family, joining the two tiki representing the grandparents.

The ahuahu o Mataora symbolizes physical and mental strength, the steps to success, learning the lessons (the stepping stones) that Miguel will then go on teaching to others (the frigate bird representing the leader guiding other people by example).

The lizard is a protective symbol and the ipu for the body is a symbol of fertility.

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