rolandpachecoI rarely do walk-ins but managed to fit this gentleman in and we had a blast. Mata hoata or brilliant eyes, are meant to protect from dangers both physical and mental. This is a profile rendering complete with teeth and koru at the top towards his chest for growth and prosperity in life.
Breakdown:
a) hope vehine (single) – this single image of the hope vehine is meant to symbolize the twin goddesses of tattoo, give protection and act as an interface for any subsequent piece that is added below it.
b) niho – tooth, the two niho at the bottom of this piece are there to protect the entire tattoo. Moving diagonally upwards from left to right, the larger niho with a dark band on the outside is meant to symbolize strength. The final set of niho form the mouth of the mata hoata and act to protect from sin and to also symbolize family.
c) ka’ake – upward raised arm, this symbol is meant to symbolize courage and strength.
d) puaika – ear, this is the ear of the mata hoata.
e) ihu – nose, this is the nose of the mata hoata and symbolizes breath and life.
f) mata – eye, this is the eye of the piece and is meant to look out for danger and to protect.
g) kape – eyebrow, this is the eyebrow of the piece and is meant to convey, intelligence, beauty and attention.
h) koru – unfurling fern head, this symbolizes growth and life as he moves forward.
Living in Lava Land 