Pirate Octopus Tattoo by Calum

Pirate Octopus Tattoo by Calum

The Kraken is a mythical sea creature that was believed to have the power to sink enormous ships.

This creature found in Mythology was probably based on sightings of octopus and giant squid.

This one is more “Pirates of the Caribbean”

Hummingbird Tattoo by Calum

Hummingbird Tattoo by Calum

We’re still not sure what to call this style. Sketched, water colour, painterly?

A flying bird can symbolise that nothing is permanent in the world. It can stand for the free-spirited soul, for transcendence, hope and divine beauty.

Religions, cultures and mythologies have used birds as powerful symbols.

Most bird tattoos include vultures, peacocks, eagles, parrots, swallow, owls and hummingbirds.

Skull and Wreath Tattoo by Matt

Skull and Wreath Tattoo by Matt

The laurel wreath can symbolise victory or mean that the person wearing it is a poet or musician or the inspiration for one.

It comes from the Greek myth of Apollo and Daphne.

Koi Tattoo by Matt

Koi Tattoo by Matt

Koi is a Japanese word for Carp.

Japanese people have often used Koi fish tattoo designs as a cultural symbol for overcoming adversity. Stories are told of how they climb waterfalls that have strong currents.

It is said the Koi was determined to reach the top of the waterfall so it persevered and succeeded.

Harley Quinn Tattoo by Matt

Harley Quinn Tattoo by Matt

A DC comics character and frequent accomplice and lover of the Joker.

Harley Quinn met the Joker while working as a psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum, where the Joker was a patient.

Her name is a play on the name “Harlequin”, a character which originated in the commedia dell’arte.

This tattoo is based on the updated Harley Quinn from 2011.

Mandala Thigh Tattoo by Calum

Mandala Thigh Tattoo by Calum

Mandalas symbolise “wholeness” and are used for ritual purposes which can be seen in meditation and prayer rooms.

They are often a circular design based on flowers very similar to kaleidoscopic design patterns.

When applied by a skillful tattoo expert, they lend an exotic touch on your skin.

Lighthouse Tattoo by Matt Curtis

Lighthouse Tattoo by Matt Curtis

For thousands of years lighthouses have been guiding sailors so considering the nautical roots of tattooing it’s not surprising that people choose a lighthouse for a tattoo.

The lighthouse can represent a guiding light for safe passage and is represented with other nautical symbols such as a ships wheel or an anchor.

Trash Polka Tattoo by Matt

Trash Polka Tattoo by Matt 

Trash Polka is a breakaway style of tattoo art that began at Buena Vista Tattoo Club in Würzburg, Germany.

The style resembles fine art collages that combine realistic images with smears, smudges, and kinetic designs that generate a discordant, chaotic look to the piece. Words are sometimes included.

Trash Polka pieces are only done in red or black ink.