Kupuna

Design Story

This Polynesian tattoo was prepared for Benjamin and it is dedicated to his grandparents.

They are represented as the couple within the sun on top, with a star next to them to show the importance they always had for him.
The sun represents how they taught him to see the good in life, and the joy they gave him.

The lizard below them (with flax leaves inside for family unity) represents protection and a messenger that keeps him in contact with them even after they passed.
It also divides the tattoo into two parts: the hammerhead shark on the back symbolizes being strong facing every challenge (the path of Kamehameha), union through all adversities (the braid near the opposing waves) until becoming a warrior who lives in joy (the warrior inside a sun).

On the front, the turtle represents family and voyage, with the grandparents (the two enata on the shell) accompanied by Benjamin and his daughter on their last voyage, bringing them serenity (the Marquesan cross).
The two chasing birds between the turtle and the sun symbolize support to the loved ones, and the tiki protection

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