Tauawhi

Design Story

This forearm band tattoo designed following the Maori kirituhi style was prepared for Felipe.

The five koru represent the five members of his family, with his and his wife's koru being the biggest ones embracing their three children in the middle and touching around the arm (joined by braids to symbolize their bond).

Flax leaves on top symbolize family union, and the star between the koru, next to the braid, symbolizes how important family is for them (a fixed point, their direction).

The teeth of taniwha bring protection to the family, while spearheads and shark teeth represent strength, tenacity and adaptability.

The row of birds and the flight of the albatross symbolizes a long voyage with safe return, which brings prosperity (the fish hook) and is lined with achievements (the stepping stones).

The following image shows with different colors the main elements of the tattoo: