Michael - Whanaungatanga

Centrally on the shoulder we placed a turtle, to symbolize the importance of family for Michael, who requested this tattoo. The front fins of the turtle are tikis to protect his family from all sides. The lower element on the shell of the turtle represents him, with his wife nearby. He supports his wife and together they support their three children just above. Their union gives stability to the family (the mountains on the sides) and joy (the sun above the five of them, incorporating a flax plant with five leaves which is yet another way to represent family). The two chasing birds closing the upper part of the shell and making the head of the turtle symbolize that help will always be granted to the dear ones.

Back flippers are formad ...