Koi fish
The fish that swims against the current. A symbol of perseverance and courage.
In Japanese tattooing the koi is a sign of perseverance. Its story is simple, which is why it speaks to so many people: whoever does not give up is transformed.
The legend of the Dragon Gate
According to an old legend, carp swam up the river against the current to a waterfall called the Dragon Gate. The one that managed to climb it turned into a dragon. This made the carp a symbol of effort, courage and transformation.
In Japan the carp is also a sign of strength and health. In May, on Children’s Day, families fly koinobori, carp-shaped streamers, as a wish for children to grow up strong.
Direction and colour
A koi swimming upward is sometimes read as a struggle still under way, and one swimming downward as a goal already reached. These are interpretations, not rigid rules; the direction is decided mainly by the composition and the placement.
I most often do red, orange, gold and black and grey koi. The colour of the fish contrasts well with a dark background of waves, so the motif reads clearly from a distance.
What the koi is paired with
A koi always comes with water: waves, currents, splashes. Among plants the usual choices are maple leaves, associated with autumn, cherry blossoms for spring, or a lotus.
A koi looks good on an arm or a leg, because its body naturally follows the limb. A popular layout is two koi swimming in opposite directions, or a koi paired with a dragon.
Work
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Formats
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FAQ
01How much does a tattoo cost?
The price depends on the size, the placement, the amount of detail and the number of sessions. Tell me what you want, give the size and placement and attach references, and I will prepare a quote for your project.
02What is the first step?
Message me on WhatsApp or Instagram: your idea, placement, approximate size and references. I will tell you whether it can be done, suggest a format and a rough price, and then we book a consultation or go straight to a session date.
03How far in advance should I book?
I usually book a few weeks ahead. For large projects we plan the following sessions straight away.
04How do I prepare for a session?
Get a good night’s sleep. Eat a proper meal before the session and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and medication that affects blood clotting, provided stopping it is safe and agreed with your doctor. Wear comfortable clothes that give easy access to the area.
05Which styles do you tattoo?
Three: Japanese, neo-traditional and traditional. What they share is a bold outline and full colour, which is what makes a tattoo age well. Japanese is my main specialisation; neo-traditional and traditional I have tattooed alongside it for years.
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