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I can’t believe Mat’s Japanese freehand dragon backpiece tattoo is finally finished, 4 years in the making- almost to the day! It’s bittersweet! It’s so amazing to see it finished after so long, but I’m going to miss working on this piece and also we will miss Mat’s presence in the studio and at the tattoo conventions. Mat was tattooed many times at the London Tattoo Convention as well as here at UN1TY, hopefully, we will get to show it next year when conventions return (fingers crossed they do). I am so proud to have been chosen for such a special project and it has truly been my honour to share this time with Mat. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! The end of an era Mat!
I am proud and excited to share with you the finished tattoo…
Taking the time to get the design layout right in the first session is essential. Firstly I decide where I would like the head to be and the direction of flow of the body of the dragon. Once that is done I can add legs, stomach and fill in the details of horns, hair and scales. Mat really wanted a sun at the top of his back so it’s essential to know these elements at the beginning of the session so I can plan space for these early on in the design process. I like there to be a good balance of hot and cold Colours, so placing flowers in good focal point spots allows me to balance colours out well and lead the eye around the design, keeping interest in the piece for longer.
Tatsu is the name for a Japanese Dragon. Dragons are regarded as snake-like and are generally aquatic. Are intelligent, compassionate, they originate from the Buddhist religion. They are one of the four divine beasts from Japanese mythology, the others being the Phoenix, Turtle, and kirin.
When drawing a dragon there are many things to consider. They should have the head of a camel, the horns of a deer and the eyes of a hair. The ears of a bull, the scales of a Koi, the paws of a tiger, claws of an eagle and whiskers. Dragons can also clutch a pearl or a ball, which is the essence of the universe. The Dragon needs this in order to control the winds, rains, fire and even the planets.
These design elements can vary greatly and are interesting to tattoo because you can easily put your own flair into the design. This is what I have tried to do with Mat’s freehand dragon backpiece tattoo.
“After 3+ years & many hours tattooing, my epic back piece has been completed.
I thought it only appropriate to do a follow-up review to summarise my experience.
Unity tattoo is an exceptionally professional business, headed up by hugely talented people who are also genuinely lovely. The studio setting is relaxed, friendly & impeccably clean.
If you’re looking for imaginative, unique large scale tattoos I cannot recommend unity enough.
The 5hr drive to & from each appointment was invariably uncomfortable after having my backside tattooed but always very much worth the discomfort when I got to view the progress made.
Large tattoos are a big commitment & not for the faint-hearted but I don’t think you could find anyone better than Jo to take that journey with.
Huge thanks to Jo especially but also Matt & V for always making the trip worthwhile.
Mat.” Testimonial from Mat.
Thank you Mat, the pleasure has been all mine! x
If you are interested in being tattooed by me you may like to check out my blog about ‘The art of storytelling.‘
And if you would like to know more about how I work you could check out ‘My FAQ.’
