Today a man who has plans for a full sleeve of Celtic knot work began the process with this tree. Careful observation will reveal that there are open threads at the lower sides that will be where the next tier of knots will join into this one, allowing the sleeve to progress down the arm and be one complete whole.
Celtic Tree Tattoo by Pat Fish
Today a client of Croatian descent requested a unique traditional ethnic pattern to celebrate his father's heritage. It looks like a Celtic design, so it felt quite familiar and was a pleasure to measure and install it as a perfect repeat that forms an arm band tattoo. Years ago he had gotten the upper band based on runes in honor of his Swedish mother, and now he is building a sleeve with many elements.
Croatian 'Pleter' Interlace Band Tattoo by Pat FIsh
"The Croatian interlace or Croatian wattle, known as the pleter or troplet in Croatian, is a type of interlace, most characteristic for its three-ribbon pattern. It is one of the most often used patterns of pre-romanesque Croatian art. It is found on and within churches as well as monasteries built in early medieval Kingdom of Croatia between the 9th and beginning of the 12th century. The ornamental strings were sometimes grouped together with animal and herbal figures." -Wikipedia
12th Century Croatian Carving featuring the woven pleter pattern
Today a military officer with his eyes on retirement began the ambitious tattoo he has spent many years yearning for. The rules and regulations are no longer inhibiting his attainment of major tattoo coverage. This NordicDale style dragon head will be the start of a full half sleeve that will incorporate Celtic elements as well........ my favorite kind of client!
Viking 'Ryder Dragon' Tattoo by Pat Fish
Thousands of dots and hours later, and now this NordicDale style dragon is completed. In a PREVIOUS POST I showed the head by itself, and in the sessions since we have added the dragon's body, scales, and a small eel to add complexity and emphasize the pre-existing Latin words. Utilizing the musculature of the body to make a tattoo capable of movement and achieve a sculptural presence, makes it truly kinetic art.
Nordic Dragon Tattoo by Pat FIsh
