As mentioned in another post, I’m looking to get a Polynesian style tattoo on my leg (probably).

The thing I like most about Polynesian tattoos are the shapes and curves, as well as the intricate designs going into each symbol. I’m especially in love with work like this:

http://www.robdeut.com/marquesan_maori_polynesian_tattoo/images/polynesian-style-leg-tattoo.jpg

Not too much black, and enough detail to able to make out the faces, shapes and so on, which is something that can make it look stunning, albeit colourless, to almost anybody’s eyes. I’ve been hooked on this idea since seeing one on another person’s leg and been researching and finding different designs that appeal to me.

One thing came to mind recently however. That being, I am nowhere near Polynesian. That’s not to say, I’m against wearing the art and symbols of a different culture, but having to explain to somebody why I decided to get it other than because I think it looks brilliant is a little daunting to me.

So anyway, I’ll get to the point. I was born and raised in South Africa, and even though I’m mostly of European ancestry, currently live in Europe and will be becoming a Swiss citizen very soon, I’d like to carry a bit of Africa with me, so that people know just where my roots really lie. I like to think of it as showing people who I am in the form of art, rather than as printed words on official paper. Having looked around a bit I’ve found some ideas of African tattoos that I really like. Example:

http://tattoonow.vo.llnwd.net/o25/CalypsoTattooHOSTED/images/gallery/chest_lolo_lowres.jpg

I really like the face, as well as the wavy lines of triangles flowing along side it. Again, I’m not into too many large pitch black shapes, I prefer thick lines and detail. Also, being a practitioner of traditional martial arts, the “warrior” style and meaning of protection appeals to me.

I however don’t want to drop the idea of a Polynesian tattoo, but would rather see if the two could be mixed together successfully. Problem is, I imagine it would help if I could find a tattoo artist that had a good idea of both areas – something not very easy to find.

Fortunately I got you guys. 😀 I’m hoping that somebody here, would have a good idea as to how the two styles could be combined to make a cool tattoo. Polynesian shapes and patterns, with African symbols and meanings.

I’m sure some of you here must have some good ideas for an artistically untalented guy like me. 😀 I’d go to a tattoo artist too, but to be honest, I wouldn’t really know how to get my thoughts out in a way that he’ll understand. I’m looking for good ideas and possibly a drawing or two to help realise my idea and get me a little bit closer to that perfect tat. 🙂

Totally tl;dr, but thanks for reading it all if you did. 😀

Cheers