Today an Alaskan fireman biker, a man who celebrates the connection many motorcycle riders feel with the Viking heritage, came for this custom piece. The unique 12-pointed interwoven Valknut is surrounded by a circle of motorcycle chain, linking the two enthusiasms.
"The valknut (Old Norse valr, 'slain warriors' and knut, 'knot') is a symbol consisting of three interlocked triangles. It appears on a variety of objects from the archaeological record of the ancient Germanic peoples." -Wikipedia
Today saw the final color session on this complex pattern, a melding of a peacock, lion, and eel into one integrated chest piece. Symbols of faith, courage, and cleverness.
Peacock-Lion-Eel chest tattoo by Pat Fish
Today a persistent man endured arduous airport delays and aggravations to achieve his goal of a Celtic tattoo in California. The Tree of Life in this tattoo is flanked by two protecting Irish Wolfhounds, with the entire knotting linked and interwoven with an oval border, making it an integrated shield. A big man with a big upper arm, giving me a fine pale canvas on which to install a complex and original pattern.
Celtic Hounds of Life tattoo by Pat Fish
Today this Fireman came to finish his shoulder-piece begun last year. By judicious use of wicker-shading, stipple-dotting, solid color and open space, we made the intricate pattern easier for the eye to decipher.
Celtic 'Generations Half Sleeve' Tattoo by Pat Fish
