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This week we welcome a new artist to our team, introducing Blakey!
Blakey is visiting from the UK and will be working here until July 2025. He specialises in traditional, dot work, black work and line work.
Have a look at some of his available flash and completed work below.
To book in with Blakey for a flash piece or custom design fill out an inquiry form here.
A Japanese dragon and sakura tattoo is a striking and deeply symbolic design. This combination brings together two iconic elements from Japanese culture—strength and impermanence—creating a tattoo that's both powerful and meaningful.
In Japanese tattooing, the dragon is often depicted as a powerful, mystical creature, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and protection. Unlike Western dragons, which are typically seen as menacing, the Japanese dragon is a guardian figure, usually associated with water and the natural world. It’s often shown twisting around the body, its long serpentine form wrapping from the arm onto the chest, creating a sense of movement and flow. The dragon represents resilience, overcoming obstacles, and the pursuit of wisdom.
Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are a staple in Japanese tattooing. These delicate flowers bloom briefly each spring, symbolizing the impermanence of life. The sakura’s short lifespan makes it a reminder to appreciate the fleeting moments of beauty that come our way. In a tattoo, sakura blossoms often surround the dragon, softening its fierce energy with their gentle, ethereal quality. This contrast creates a visual balance that mirrors the balance between strength and fragility in life.
A full arm sleeve with a chest plate is the perfect canvas for the dragon and sakura tattoo. The dragon can snake around your arm, wrapping from your wrist up to your shoulder, its head or tail extending onto the chest. The sakura flowers can be scattered throughout the design, flowing naturally between the dragon’s coils. The chest plate aspect adds depth, making the dragon feel even more encompassing and protective, while the sakura petals remind you of life’s fleeting beauty.
Japanese tattoos are known for their vibrant colours and bold lines. The dragon is typically rendered in deep blues, greens, and blacks, with red accents highlighting its strength and ferocity. The sakura blossoms are usually done in shades of pink and white, offering a soft contrast to the dragon’s bold presence. Traditional Japanese style tattoos often use thick black outlines and vibrant, solid colours to give the design a timeless, striking look.
A dragon and sakura full arm sleeve with a chest plate is a bold, meaningful design that stands out for its visual impact and cultural depth. Whether you’re drawn to the fierce power of the dragon or the delicate symbolism of the sakura, this tattoo is a perfect blend of both, representing resilience, beauty, and the balance between them. It’s a timeless design that not only looks incredible but also tells a powerful story.
New Zealand is home to some of the most unique and iconic bird species in the world. Two of our favourite New Zealand native birds to tattoo, the vibrant Piwakawaka (fantail) and the melodious Tui showcase the rich biodiversity of the islands. These beautiful birds inspire a variety of tattoo styles, allowing enthusiasts to celebrate their love for these creatures in art form.
The piwakawaka, or fantail, is known for its playful behavior and distinctive tail feathers. This bird is often associated with the spirit world in Māori culture, symbolizing change and adaptability. In tattoo art, the piwakawaka can be rendered in fine line style for a delicate look or in black work for a striking, bold effect. Japanese tattoo styles also beautifully capture the dynamic movements of the fantail, with flowing lines that mimic its fluttering flight.
The tui, with its stunning iridescent feathers and remarkable vocal abilities, is another beloved native bird. Tattoos of tui often incorporate vibrant colors, reflecting the bird's beautiful plumage. Fine line and black work styles can create detailed depictions of the tui, while American traditional tattoos might emphasize its robust form and personality. The tui can also be integrated into larger pieces, surrounded by native flowers like kōwhai or pohutukawa, enhancing its visual impact.
In Japanese culture, the crane is often associated with longevity and good fortune. These magnificent birds are believed to live for over a hundred years, making them symbols of a long and prosperous life. According to Japanese folklore, folding a thousand origami cranes grants a person a wish—whether it's health, happiness, or peace. This belief has elevated the crane to a status of reverence, representing hope and resilience.
Cranes in tattoos are celebrated not only for their symbolism but also for their beauty. The graceful lines of their bodies, the intricate detailing of their feathers, and their elegant postures create a stunning visual impact. Artists often depict cranes in flight, embodying freedom and transcendence. The contrast of their delicate feathers against bold backgrounds—like waves, cherry blossoms, or mountains—adds depth and dynamism to the artwork.
In traditional Japanese tattoos, cranes are often paired with other symbols to enhance their meaning. For example, when depicted alongside cherry blossoms, the crane can symbolize the fleeting nature of life, echoing the transient beauty of the blossoms themselves. In contrast, when accompanied by waves or water motifs, cranes may represent adaptability and the flow of life.
For many, choosing a crane tattoo is a personal decision rooted in individual experiences or aspirations. Some may select the crane to signify a wish for longevity, while others may connect with its representation of grace and tranquility. This personal significance adds layers of meaning to the tattoo, making it a unique expression of identity.
Cranes in Japanese tattooing embody a unique blend of beauty, symbolism, and cultural significance. Whether seen as a representation of longevity, a wish for peace, or simply an appreciation for the grace of these birds, crane tattoos are more than just artwork—they are meaningful expressions of the wearer's journey and values. As this art form continues to evolve, the crane will undoubtedly remain a beloved motif, capturing the hearts of those who wear it.
2024 is the Year of the Dragon! As make our way through 2024, we’re greeted by the powerful energy of this magnificent creature. Celebrated for its strength, wisdom, and benevolence, the dragon embodies qualities that resonate deeply within our hearts and communities. The Dragon year invites us to harness its dynamic spirit for growth and new beginnings.
In Japan, dragons are revered as water deities, guardians of nature, and symbols of prosperity. Unlike their fiery Western counterparts, Japanese dragons are often depicted as wise, serpentine beings associated with rain, fertility, and the balance of the natural world. This year, as the Dragon takes its place in the zodiac, we celebrate its transformative power:
Guardian Spirits: Dragons are seen as protectors, safeguarding our homes and communities. They are often depicted in art and folklore as benevolent figures that bring good fortune.
Symbol of Strength: The Dragon’s strength inspires us to overcome challenges and embrace our inner resilience. This year encourages us to confront obstacles with courage and determination.
In 2024, we experience the influence of the Wood element, which enhances creativity and growth. This aligns beautifully with our traditional beliefs about the Dragon’s nurturing qualities:
Fostering Creativity: The Wood Dragon encourages us to explore new ideas and express ourselves artistically. Whether through painting, poetry, or craft, this year is perfect for channeling our creativity.
Community and Connection: The Dragon also symbolizes the importance of community and collaboration. As we embrace the Wood element, let’s foster connections that support and uplift one another.
As we honor the Year of the Dragon, consider how to integrate its energy into your life:
Reflect and Set Intentions: Take time to reflect on your goals and aspirations. What transformations do you wish to pursue this year? The Dragon invites you to aim high and take bold steps.
Participate in Cultural Traditions: Engage in local festivals and celebrations that highlight the Dragon’s significance. Join in traditional dances, share stories, and connect with others in your community.
Check out some of our favorite Japanese dragon tattoos from this year! Each design beautifully captures the essence of this powerful symbol, showcasing stunning artistry and intricate detail.
