Isla

Design Story

We prepared a band tattoo for Neil to represent his two daughters, and this time we were honored to prepare a calf tattoo to celebrate his first granddaughter, Isla.

The turtle representing her is the main element, protected by the all-seeing eye and by the two smaller turtles representing her mom and auntie.
Isla's mother is the turtle on the front (with the breath of life next to her to symbolize giving life to her), and Isla's aunt is on the other side, in the background and always present.

The main elements are the Marquesan cross in the center, for balance and harmony, surrounded by a sun for joy and stability (the mountains), the spearheads (strength and courage, warrior spirit), the braid (union), and the flax leaves for family unity.

The warrior in the head of the turtle represents Neil, present and willing to protect and guide her (the frigate symbolizing a messenger and higher perspective), while the star is a symbol of direction and importance.

The lokahi represents harmony with nature, the octopus tentacles symbolize tenacity and adaptability, and fish hooks are symbols of prosperity and knowledge.

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