Plumbing Eagle Coverup Tattoo

Recently my home sewer needed to be replaced, and I struck a deal with the plumber. He had a blob on his arm, a pathetic attempt made years ago to cover up an ex-wife's name, and I suggested that he deserved better. It took a little convincing to have him go for the plumber's wrenches in the claws, but after his crew saw the concept drawing their enthusiasm was unanimous... and now, after two sessions, the cover-up is complete and the occupationally enthusiastic tattoo is a source of pride for him.

Plumbing Eagle Coverup Tattoo by Pat Fish

Toucan Tattoo

Today I refreshed the colors on a toucan I did 5 years ago that has seen some serious sun in the meanwhile on this gal's leg. We love clients who show off their work, but use sunblock! Fortunately the faded bird can easily be returned to his former vivid jungle glory.

One of nature's most delightfully improbable creatures, the giant smiling beak of the toucan never fails to delight. This one swings in a spiral of vine that elegantly accessorizes him.

Celtic 'Band of Gypsies' Tattoo

Recently a man whose occupation takes him across the globe got this band adapted from an ancient gypsy pattern. Rendered in black ink to achieve the look of chain mail, precisely fitted to his forearm, he now proudly resumes his travels with a permanent souvenir of his visit to Santa Barbara.

Celtic 'Band of Gypsies' Tattoo by Pat Fish

'Valkyrie Compass' Tattoo

Today an international sea captain came into port for this ancient Icelandic compass, a talisman to help him keep his course true. It was his birthday, and he gave himself the gift of a transformative experience.

'Valkyrie Compass' Tattoo by Pat FIsh

A Vegvísir (Icelandic 'sign post') is an Icelandic magical stave intended to help the bearer find their way through rough weather. The Huld Manuscript, collected in Iceland, declares that "if this sign is carried, one will never lose one's way in storms or bad weather, even when the way is not known" A valkyrie (from Old Norse valkyrja "chooser of the slain") is one of a host of female figures who decide who will die in battle. Selecting among half of those who die in battle, the valkyries bring their chosen to the afterlife hall of the slain, Valhalla, ruled over by the god Odin.