This client wanted a tree to symbolize his commitment to his family, and has strong ancestral ties to Dutch Indonesia. When I asked him to provide me with reference material of designs that resonated with him, he sent examples of the splendid tattoo art of Aman Durga Sipatiti. This inspirational Sarawak Borneo art is filled with spiral forms, so similar to the Pictish and Celtic patterns I love. It was a pleasure to look at them as I created this custom piece.
Triquetra Shield Tattoo Design
The triquetra is a three-pointed symbol that has been used in ancient Nordic, Celtic, German, and Japanese cultures. It has been used in both pagan and Christian religious imagery, symbolizing the Holy Trinity, and the tripartite view that life is not a dualistic universe. Here is is placed on a circle of Celtic knotwork to make a shield.
Woven Circular Brigid's Cross Tattoo Design
Following the traditional weaving knots of a Brigid's cross, this pattern gives an opportunity for a background of color by adding more Celtic knots in a circle.
Dog Tattoo with Celtic War Band Design
A band uniting two Celtic Irish Wolfhound war dogs made more effective by placing a knot on the front center and also at the back.
