Vai

Design Story

The manta of this Polynesian shoulder tattoo designed for Dre is swimming through several patterns, each with a meaning.
From the bottom shark teeth, path of Kamehameha and waves represent a pivotal moment with challenges to be faced, while the row of spearheads symbolizes a warrior, tenacity and strength to face them (like the hammerhead shark motif within the manta).
The row of people and the braid represent close friends.

The lokahi symbol, symbolizes harmony and is also a reference to a Hawaiian trip.
Shark teeth are symbolic of protection in water, and they also represent adaptability and strength.

The all-seeing eye in the center of the manta and the two tiki on the wings keep all evil away and protect him and his wife in the middle.
The frigate birds represents voyage, and a higher perspective upon the world.

Other elements within the manta are flax leaves (family unity), a seashell (love and intimacy), and the chasing birds to symbolize support always granted to the loved ones.

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