Singapore, a cosmopolitan city known for its modernity and innovation, also has a rich and vibrant history when it comes to tattoo art. Traditional tattooing in Singapore has its roots in various cultures, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences. These diverse influences have shaped the unique tattooing techniques and designs that have become synonymous with Singaporean tattoo culture.

The practice of tattooing in Singapore dates back centuries, with evidence of tattooed individuals found in ancient artifacts and historical records. Traditional tattoo artists in Singapore were highly skilled and respected members of society, often incorporating intricate designs and symbolism into their work. These tattoos were not just for decoration but also served as a form of protection and representation of one's identity and beliefs.

One of the most iconic forms of traditional tattooing in Singapore is the "Sak Yant" or Yantra tattoo, which originated from Thailand but has gained popularity in Singapore in recent years. These tattoos are believed to bestow protection, luck, and other positive attributes upon the wearer. The intricate designs and spiritual significance of Sak Yant tattoos have attracted many locals and tourists alike.

In the early 20th century, traditional tattooing in Singapore faced a decline due to societal changes and the introduction of modern tattoo techniques. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional tattoo art, with many young Singaporean artists incorporating traditional designs and techniques into their work.

Today, Singapore is home to a thriving tattoo scene with a mix of traditional and modern tattoo studios offering a wide range of tattoo styles. Artists in Singapore are not only skilled in traditional designs but also in contemporary styles such as watercolor, blackwork, and abstract art.

In conclusion, the history of tattooing in Singapore is a fascinating journey that reflects the cultural diversity and creativity of the city. Traditional tattoo art continues to thrive in Singapore, with artists drawing inspiration from the past while also pushing the boundaries of modern tattooing techniques. Whether you are a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the rich history of tattoo art, Singapore is definitely a must-visit destination to explore the world of traditional ink.

Singapore's tattoo history dates back centuries, with a rich tradition of body art that has significantly evolved over time. Traditional tattoos in Singapore were originally linked to various cultural practices, such as protection and identification within different ethnic groups.

One of the earliest known forms of tattooing in Singapore was practiced by the indigenous Orang Laut (sea people) community. They used tattoos as symbols of rank, protection, and even spiritual beliefs. Over time, the practice spread to different communities, including the Malays, Chinese, and Indians, each with their unique styles and motifs.

In the early 20th century, tattooing gained popularity among the working class, with many sailors and laborers getting inked as a form of self-expression and camaraderie. This led to the establishment of tattoo studios in areas like Bugis and Chinatown, where artists would create designs inspired by traditional motifs and iconography.

However, the perception of tattoos changed during the 1960s and 1970s when tattooing became associated with criminal activities and gang affiliations. This led to a decline in the practice, with many tattoo artists forced to operate underground to avoid legal repercussions.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional tattooing in Singapore, with a new generation of artists reclaiming and reinterpreting historical motifs and techniques. Tattoo studios like Born and Bred Tattoo and Oracle Tattoo have gained recognition for their dedication to preserving and promoting Singapore's tattoo heritage.

Today, Singapore's tattoo history continues to evolve, with artists blending traditional designs with modern aesthetics to create unique and innovative artworks. As the popularity of tattoos grows, there is a renewed appreciation for the cultural significance and artistic value of traditional Singaporean tattoos.

In conclusion, Singapore's tattoo history is a testament to the enduring legacy of body art as a form of self-expression, cultural identity, and artistic tradition. By exploring and celebrating this rich heritage, we can better understand the role of tattoos in shaping Singapore's cultural landscape and preserving its unique identity.

Tattoos have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, but American traditional tattoos have a distinct style and history that sets them apart from other tattoo designs. American traditional tattoos, also known as old school tattoos, are characterized by bold lines, bright colors, and iconic imagery such as hearts, roses, anchors, and eagles.

The history of American traditional tattoos dates back to the early 20th century when tattooing became increasingly popular in the United States. Sailors, soldiers, and other adventurous types would often get tattoos as a way to commemorate their experiences and show their allegiance to their country or loved ones. Traditional tattoo artists like Norman Collins, also known as Sailor Jerry, played a key role in popularizing this style of tattooing. American traditional tattoos were also heavily influenced by indigenous tattoo designs from various cultures, as well as the Japanese art of irezumi. These influences can be seen in the use of bold lines and vibrant colors, as well as the incorporation of mythological and symbolic imagery.

Over the years, American traditional tattoos have evolved and adapted to changing cultural trends, but they have remained a timeless and iconic style in the world of tattooing. Today, many people still choose to get American traditional tattoos as a way to honor the rich history of this art form and carry on the legacy of its pioneers.

In conclusion, American traditional tattoos have a long and storied history that has helped shape the world of tattooing as we know it today. From the bold lines and vibrant colors to the iconic imagery and timeless designs, American traditional tattoos continue to be a popular choice for those looking to express themselves through body art. Whether you're a fan of the old school style or simply appreciate the rich history behind these tattoos, there's no denying the lasting impact that American traditional tattoos have had on the world of tattooing.

May 2017, a Caucasian woman came into our studio. Initially, she wanted to coverup her poorly executed tattoo. One look and you can tell the poor execution of the tattoo, the tattoo was raised because of scarring from a needle depth that was too deep into the dermis of the skin. But I digress. As she was on a budget, we changed plans to do an addition and alteration. After which, we took a $100 deposit to prepare a draft of the design and sample of the watercolour addition.

When she came down again to look at her design, I emphasised that what she sees in the sketch on paper, especially of the colour scheme used, will look slightly different from the actual tattoo as watercolour pigments on paper and tattoo pigments used on skin will definitely be different. It was also reiterated that the shape and direction of the watercolour splashes was done in accordance to how her existing tattoo is. This is the best combination possible given her existing tattoo design.

For those familiar with how I work, my pricing is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive in Singapore, but many concur that I’m the best there is, and my prices are without doubt one of the most reasonable. On top of that, I also take great care and time to carefully discuss the design and options with my clients. Even right before the tattooing process starts, I will also make extra sure that my clients understand and confirms the design and colours to be used for the tattoo.

In this particular case, I took out a few different shades of red for her to choose her personal favourite. After she has made her choice, I executed the tattoo as per the design sketch which she personally approved. Two months later, is where the weird thing happened. She came back to us and said that the red watercolour on her tattoo look like blood flowing down her skin, and demanded that we compensate her $500 as we did not do it according to her request. She even resent us a sample of another tattoo that she liked which she gave us during the initial consultation as a sample to what she was looking for in the tattoo. I explained that, since the sample she gave was of a completely different tattoo design, I have used the colours she liked in it to match the tattoo design that she has. That is to say, I followed the colour scheme that she liked, and integrated them into her current tattoo design. Since both designs are completely different, how could both tattoos look alike? Not surprisingly, she ignored and refused to answer my question directly, and continued to demand that I compensate her $500.

When I refused, she blackmailed me by saying that she’ll go online and leave negative feedback on me, so my “losses” would be much greater than the mere $500 she demanded. To which, I simply replied that a good artist would never be worried about any blackmailing. After this, she starts rambling about how this and that is unfair to her. Anyone with eyes would be able to clearly see that from beginning to end, we did everything she had requested. When she regrets it later, who is to blame then? However, out of goodwill, I offered to her an alteration to change the red colour which she “hated” for free. I even gave her an appointment to get it done, but she refused. She insisted on getting paid $500 in cash, with the excuse that it’ll be used for laser tattoo removal. But is $500 enough to undergo laser removal treatment? Let’s say she gets her $500 back, what then? It still does not address the red colour she hates! So, if all she thinks of is the $500, then her real intention is that she thinks that her tattoo was too expensive. Then it becomes a simple question. If she thought the price was too high, then why on earth, did she agreed to go ahead in the first place? Her tattoos include: Chinese calligraphy that stretches across the whole spine with watercolour, a whole English sentence on the inner bicep, and a word on the shoulder. All these and she still felt that she was overcharged? She’s either a certifiable nutcase or a complete con. And she still has the face to say that it’s my responsibility. Throughout my decade long career as a tattoo artist, she is the first cheapskate I’ve ever encountered. If you find that I’m too expensive for you, then just leave! Why do it and start complaining later?

After this incident, a though came to mind. Is it because the way I manage the studio which is different from the industry’s norm? Because I run it like a family business, full of warmth and cosiness to the max and employing only female artists? Could she have thought I could be easily pushed around because of that? Then she has certainly thought wrongly.

What a joke. Patience and friendliness doesn’t mean you can take advantage of me. The quality of my work is out for all to see. I don’t expect everyone to like my work, because no one’s perfect. We see keyboard warriors waging verbal wars with famous individuals and tattoo artists every day. As for me, I’ve been working hard in Singapore for over 7 years, and my mission has always been to be a truly professional artist, and be as responsible as possible to everyone who trusts in me.

I would like to take this opportunity to inform my readers that, if you don’t like my work, or find that my pricing is above your budget, then please, please don’t contact me. I don’t need another idiot to find baseless fault with again. Let me be clear again, I’m never and will not be afraid of any blackmailing or personal attacks from anyone. I can handle such stresses being thrown at me, and I’m fully aware of my excellent track record, so I have no need for anyone outside of the industry to teach me what to do.

In fact, you can superimpose the image of her old tattoo and of the tattoo which I did. Under comparison, you should be able to tell what I mean by quality workmanship. The needle depth which I’m able to execute is considered the gold standard of the industry. For those who have poorer skin condition, I will always request that they come back for a free touch-up. I will never under any circumstances, intentionally increase the needle depth just for the sake of convenience, which will result in the tattoo eventually “protrude out” due to irreversible scarring. Reason being, with a depth too deep, it will not only cause the tattoo to protrude outwards, but to also cause it to start smudging and bleed prematurely. I rather spend more time and energy to do a touch-up, then to do something that I know will cause such consequences. This is my work ethics, and I’m proud of it.

I’m attaching the mock-up drawings, photographs of the tattoos and the conversation with this lady here. You are very much welcomed to have a look at them. If you’re finding your day boring, I’m sure this would be an interesting read to past time. As for the keyboard warriors in you, let’s starting typing!

For today’s blog, let talk about a customer we had. I shall call me Ben. Ben has the misfortune to suffer three times for his single tattoo. The reason I’m writing this blog is to inform tattoo enthusiasts about choosing a good artist, and, to remind those unscrupulous “tattooers” to cherish each and every single piece of “skin” that are presented to them as artistic canvas. Don’t try to earn a quick buck and destroy your client’s skin! They deserve to enjoy the whole process of getting a tattoo, and have something marvellous to show thereafter. Please don’t get into the mindset that you’re a factory churning out tattoos – don’t you want a good reputation to get them to come back for more quality work?

And…(drumroll) let the story begin…

Ben got his first ever tattoo in China. The artist and studio he visited were good and the price was fair. Two months later, he developed an allergic reaction on his skin, and worried, he consulted his artist way back in China. However, as he started panicking, he got anxious and visited a tattoo studio in Singapore with his concern. Unfortunately, he encountered an unscrupulous tattooist. What surprised me was that Ben did not get to see his potential artist’s portfolio.

My surprise turned into horror, when Ben asked what the little white spots appearing on his tattoo were, the tattooist claimed that it was the result of his original artist injecting “tissue fragments” into his skin while working on his tattoo! This guy is a true genius in concocting up tall tales.

But that did not turn on any red flags for Ben. Instead, he chose to trust this guy and entrusted his skin to him for a “corrective “procedure. The whole tattooing took about half an hour. Though it was fast, quality suffered tremendously – this tattooist managed to cause widespread bleeding of the ink on his tattoo, causing Ben’s skin to look like its permanently bruised. (Bleeding of ink in tattoos is a normal phenomenon caused by the skin’s metabolic system through time; anyone who ever had a tattoo would know this, so it won’t be discussed here further.)

Though when Ben finally realised this, it was already too late. As his tattoo was already touched up (and a bad one at that), he felt embarrassed to even return to his original artist in China for damage control. Fortunately, or thanks to fate, he found us.
I told him what I believed happened, and told him what he should realistically expect from my corrective actions on his current tattoo. Having fully understood what I had to say, I reworked on his tattoo all over again. While repairing the blown out edges of his tattoo, Ben said that it blew out only after the second touch-up. The whole process was tedious and, I’m sure all the more painful for him (this being his third time under the needle). The blow out areas of his tattoo were camouflaged with blue-tone graffiti styled watercolour splashes as a new background to help minimise the visual effect of the blow outs.

In retrospect, did he suffer because of his lack of proper tattoo knowledge? Over the course of interacting with him, I became agitated by the fact that there exist many such unscrupulous tattooists who lack the basic ethics of being a human being. After wreaking havoc on other’s skin, the ethical artists, are left to do the dirty job of cleaning up the mess they made. So, please don’t ever be the next Ben.

Since we’ve talked so much, I’ll add in another short opinion about fingers tattoo. Before embarking on one, I besiege you to do your research first about how it’ll look like after its healed. Over the years, I’ve rejected many individual requests for getting fingers tattoo. Many of them had thought that I don’t do it because I’m not good enough and ended up getting their skin ruined by someone like Ben’s tattooist. Google the results of finger tattoos fading. Or look through past articles I’ve written about this if you’re unsure. I’m not going to repeat all of them again.

Here’s a tip in finding a good artist: if an artist willingly does a finger tattoo for you without even bothering to explain the consequences to you…leave immediately! A caveat: if you’re getting your whole hand tattooed, then there’s no need to worry about fading, since the visual impact is of the whole tattooed area and not just a single point on the finger. As for me, I rather risk losing a customer, rather than doing a job that’s against my better conscience just to earn a few quick bucks.

If you’ve seen my work, you’d seen a fair number of fingers tattoo that I’ve done. You’ll also noticed that most of them are in colour. Before I inked them, they have been fully briefed and are fully aware of the potential fading effect of fingers tattoo (hence, in colours the fading won’t be as obvious as stark black tattoos).

What you also don’t see is how many customers I’ve already turned away many customers who could not accept my suggestion for a better looking tattoo. When you look at any photos of tattoos online, remember there’s a thing called PhotoShop. These photos are enhanced or taken immediately after a finger tattoo is done. Ask anyone with a finger tattoo, see if anyone has a healed tattoo that looks like those you see online.

Thanks for reading!

Here are some of the most common brainless questions people ask about tattoo pricing:
 
1 How much for a tattoo?
2 How much for a full sleeve tattoo?
3 I just want a very very small design; how much will it be?
4. How much to get a traditional full back piece? Any design recommendations?
 
Have any of the 4 questions above? Allow me to answer them for you!
 
Q1: How much for a tattoo?
First, what is the exact style of tattoo do you like? In what style (tribal, mandala, dot-work, geometric, etc.)? Do you want it in black and grey or in full colour? Without all these details, it’s impossible to give you a meaningful quotation.
 
Q2: How much for a full sleeve tattoo?
What kind of full sleeve design? Most “full sleeve” tattoos are not what you think – comprising of all flowers, etc. You’ll need to have a “theme” to work around with. Without these, there’s no way to give you a quotation.
 
Q3: I just want a very small design; how much will it be?
You have to understand that your definition of “small” is not universal. To us, it may be a 2-inch design, but to another artist it might venture into 5 inches or more (or even less). For example, a half armour (chest to upper arm) might be considered “small” in comparison to a full back piece. Yet, when the half armour is compared to a small design on the calf, then it would become a “large” piece. So, it’s important to articulate the size properly to the artist.
 
Q4: How much to get a traditional full back piece? Any design recommendations?
As the back is a huge area, many factors play a part in the overall design and pricing. What’s your built? Are you lean or fat? What do you mean by “traditional” (is it a phoenix or dragon)? Do you want it in black and grey or full colour? Most important of all, without knowing the complexity of the design, there is no way to give you a meaningful quotation. Plus, it’ll definitely not be the kind of pricing you’re looking for.
 
If you forget everything that’s being said here, just remember this: please don’t approach any tattoo artist with any of the questions listed above. Here’s a tip instead: research on the kind of design you like first, then determine the kind of style you’ll like; like oriental, American traditional, Japanese, dot work, etc. Finally, after doing all your homework, approach your artist with your research and you’ll both get a satisfying consultation going. And here’s a final tip: since most European studios charge by the hour, they may charge for a consultation. However, over here at Memory Lane, consultations are free and you’ll only pay when you need customized designing work, or if you intent to secure a tattooing slot. This is just a general overview of how other studio operates. To ensure accuracy, you’ll have to contact them yourself.
 
Thanks for reading!
 

A special girl contacted us recently. She was half-paralyzed and wanted to have her beloved dogs' names tattooed on her arm in remembrance of her pets. Due to her circumstances, she invited us to her home to help her fulfil her wish.

After some discussion, we learnt that she was a true blue tattoo aficionado. Although we would be more than happy to help her, we insisted that she consult her doctor first - for her health’s sake.

The doctor finally replied her. Yes, she could get a tattoo. But it must be very small to prevent excessive bleeding which is a very likely complication.

For anyone with tattooing experience, we'll know that regardless of the size of a tattoo, bleeding is inevitable. Although it pained us, we rejected her dream to get a tattoo. Not only because we are concerned about her health, but also because we can't guarantee the quality of the tattoo.

Through this episode, many past memories came flooding back into our mind. Some of our past clients, many of them elderly folks, always have stories to tell when asked why they decided to get a tattoo only now.

Their replies were always the same: "I've thought about it for decades, and only finally decided to do it now. In my 20s, it was always because of the lack of money, career limitations, family prohibition, etc., so I gave up. In my 30s, it was because of my kids and career prospects. In my 40s, I believe I've outgrown the need for a tattoo. Then in my 50s-60s, with one foot in the grave, I've decided that it's my final chance to get a tattoo. Otherwise, it'll only be a dream forever."

In reality, all these are just endless excuses. Time waits for no one. I believe that since you love it, and you have the ability to get one. Then just go ahead and get your favourite tattoo right now. Unless it'll really adversely affect your life, then it'll be wise to wait till retirement or after leaving your current profession before getting one done.

In old age, you may discover that you had many unfulfilled dreams. Don't let tattoos be one of them!

I'd rather be a super cool old granny (or grandpa), than just an ordinary old folk with no interesting story to tell. Perhaps at that age, your hair might've greyed, your memories might’ve become fuzzy, your tattoos might even look wrinkly and tired, but their stories will remain as though it just happened yesterday!

Recall when you really wanted a tattoo, yet were unable to get one. Were you extremely disappointed? Then there are those who have ruined their excellent canvases due to short-sightedness in their thoughts back then. Therefore, if you don't go and nit-pick certain things, it'll repay you with endless happy memories in the future.

As I'm not a professional writer, please take this blog post as personal ramblings.

Thanks for reading!

Many people have misunderstandings of what a tattoo is. Some can't tell the difference between a half completed and completed tattoo. For those with a few tattoos, they'd say a tattoo looks it's best only when it's freshly completed.

This is because during the tattooing process, the skin was damaged and will look inflamed and swollen. People tend to associate the fresh swollen state of a tattoo as the "most beautiful" time of its lifespan.

But to an experienced tattoo artist, he appreciates the difference between a healed and fresh tattoo. For example, most layperson will think that word tattoos and tribal designs are simple and easy to do. But they fail to appreciate the fact that to make such a tattoo look good even after it heals, requires substantial work and experience of the artist; words must be done intricately to remain legible and uniform over time, while pigment saturation must reach a certain level to prevent blotchy designs.

All these requires a skilled and experienced tattoo artist to accomplish. An amateur or junior artist might know how to make it look good upon completion while it's fresh, but generally lack the skills and experience required to determine how it will turn out once it's healed.

This is part of the reason why ill-informed consumers will go around shopping for an artist  and settle on the cheapest he could find. For him, the value of a tattoo is only worth so much.

Unfortunately, a good tattoo artist can't expect his customers to understand the value of true art. But someone who does understands this, and treats his skin as an artistic canvas for expression, will tend not to consider the price of a tattoo as the primary factor.

I made it a point to tell my clients to wait until the tattoo heals, before deciding whether it was worth the price that they paid for. This is the reason why I get many repeat customers in my studio.

I'm now showcasing the complete process of my work from just done, healing, and healed, so that you can understand how a tattoo should look like throughout the healing stages and after it's completely healed.

Personally, I prefer the completely healed look. I think that's the best look a tattoo can get. While many people likes the freshly completed look, I guess it might be due to the freshness phenomenon.

This is a photo of a freshly completed tattoo. Look at the redness and inflamed skin. The inflammation will differ from individual to individual. But they'll look identical.

Colours will be able to be applied to the tattoo about half a month (depending on individual's healing period) after the initial outline and black-grey  shading was completed. During this period, all the black and grey areas would have healed completely and its full intensity and depth would be clearly visible.

For large pieces of colour tattoo, the best case scenario would be for the black and grey portion to be fully healed before applying the colour. This way, the colour portion of the tattoo will look natural and vibrant.

For those on tight schedules, such as tourists, etc., my advice is not to do a large colour piece while traveling. Instead, choose a black and grey design, then return to do the colouring in the future. However, if a colored piece is needed, go for something either A4 sized or smaller. For pieces that are mostly composed of black and grey with a little colour here and there, it'll be alright as well. For details, give us a call for a free consultation.

This article is meant to explain the essential tattooing and healing process. Some may even think that I might have Photoshopped the images. Rest assured, the photos are untouched, and the depicted tattoos belongs to our studio director, Mr. Edward. You may give us a visit to witness the healed tattoo for yourself!

The healing stages of the colour prob will be uploaded as it becomes available.

We will also continue to update this article with further explanations as to the "why" of tattoo healing.

Thanks for reading this tattoo healing article dedicated to all tattoo lovers out there!

Dwayne Douglas Johnson A.K.A. The Rock (b 2-May-1972) is a professional wrestler and actor. He returned to WWE officially in February of 2012 and won the “Royal Rumble” match against CM Punk, becoming the WWE reigning Champion. He has acted in Hollywood blockbusters such as “The Mummy,” “Scorpion King,” “The Mummy 2,” and Fast & Furious 7.

The Rock has two tattoos. One is a modern single design on his right upper arm of a bull. However, his second tattoo was a departure from modern tattoo design, being a traditional Samoan style of tattoo all over his left shoulder.

The bull head tattoo on Johnson’s right arm corresponds to his Western zodiac birth sign of Taurus, the Bull. The tattoo is a long-horn type of steer and is a fairly straightforward outline style of design. The eyes of the bull are also colored in red. The tattooing on his left arm and shoulder is traditional Samoan style tattooing, done by an artist in Hawai’i.

It incorporates traditional tribal patterns and symbols representing Johnson himself, his wife and daughter, his family and spirit guides. This extensive half sleeve wraps all the way around the upper arm, over the shoulder and onto the chest. A later session extended the section on his chest, adding a large symbolic warrior face over his heart.

Traditionally, Samoan tattooing was done by an artist, assisted by multiple people. The tattooist would use two tools, one a bone-tipped rake and the other the striking stick. The rake would be dipped in ink, then struck with the other stick to puncture the skin. The assistants had the job of holding the skin of the tattooee taut so that the artist could work. In his recent interview with Playboy magazine, Johnson did mention that that work took sixty hours total to execute, spread out over three sessions and was composed entirely freehand (meaning the artist worked right on his skin without a stencil or transfer). He did not mention if the tattoo was done with the traditional hand tools or if any of the ink was tattooed by conventional machine.

Dwayne has two tatoos, one on his right arm of a Brahma Bull that represents his sign of the zodiac which is Taurus the Bull and also he has an affinity for bulls. His next tattoo extends from his left shoulder, shoulder blade, and midway his left arm. It is a Polynesian tattoo (basically Marquesan) that he had done in Hawaii sometime in February of 2003 by Po’oino Yrondi – a famous Tahitian tattooist.

What Does Dwayne’s Polynesian Tattoo Mean? In early 2003, Dwayne traveled to Hawaii to have his family history tattooed on him—a Samoan tradition. Here he reveals the meanings of his tattoo.

A) These are coconut leaves, or niu, which denote a Samoan chief-warrior.

B) This is the sun which brings good fortune.

C) This isa/ga fa’atasi (three people in one), That’s me with my arms open. As it continues on my chest, it connects to my o lo’u to’a/ua (my wife, Dany) and my o lo’u afafine (my daughter, Simone Alexandra).

D) These descending swirls represent past, present and future, with the future becoming ever bigger. The pattern continues under my arm, where its meaning is written: “It changes in the place where it is found to be gone.”

E) These two eyes, called o mata e lua, represent my ancestors watching over my path.

F) This is the Great Eye, It’s an intimidating symbol that allows its user to possess the spirit of his enemy. The eye is used to distract the enemy in a confrontation.

G) This broken face, marked by shark teeth—a symbol of strength—is my spirit protector and a symbol of my struggle.

H) This is the priest and spiritual guide, who raises a warrior to enlightenment and supernatural power under the eyes of the warrior’s ancestors.

I) These are stones of achievement and abundance. They’re the foundation of my life and symbols of my dedication. They bring the right to stand and speak with honor as a Tula Fale—a high talking chief—and they maintain mana, or supernatural power.

J) This is a tortoise shell, to deflect evil spirits. Warriors used shells as shields.

It took between 15-20 hours to have done (not counting his chest that was done afterward). According to Dwayne, when you get a tattoo like this, it tells the story of his life and what he represents, what’s important in his life from strength to protection to loyalty to family. It tells a story from beginning to end. During the process of receiving this tattoo he along with his cousin Tanoa’i, who also got a tattoo of the same magnitude that took 24 hours, sat around with other cousins and friends and talked about the story of his heritage as well and played music and sang in order to take their minds off of the pain of getting the tattoo.