Koi Fish Tattoos

Koi is a very beautiful fish with bright and striking colors, which has been cultivated and bred by the people of Japan for hundreds of years. Japanese koi fish tattoos denote both good luck and strength. They are believed to bring riches and abundance. Koi fish has the innate ability to adjust to any environment and swim against the current of water, which are considered as very rare qualities.

In both Chinese and Japanese culture, a very popular and mysterious legend is associated with koi fish. It is believed that these fascinating creatures, swimming upstream against the current of water will transform into water dragons, if they can reach a point known as 'Dragon Gate' in the Yellow river. But, swimming upstream is not an easy task, and requires a great degree of determination, ambition and strength. This story highlights the importance of strength and perseverance in the face of adversity to achieve success in the struggle of life. It also points to the fact that hard labor and determination can never go unrewarded. Other meanings attached to koi fish are wisdom, knowledge, ambition, loyalty and longevity.

In Japanese culture, koi fish are also a symbol of masculinity, and their courage is compared with that of the Japanese Samurai warriors. It is a popular custom in Japan to display flags with koi fish images on the birth of a son. Koi fish are so much loved by Japanese people that flags designed as koi are raised on Children’s Day, usually black koi for father, red for mother, blue and white for boy, and pink and red for girl. They also hold a special place in Buddhism, being a symbol of courage, for their ability to complete the journey through the ocean.

Tribal Horse Tattoo

So you have made a choice that you want a tribal horse tattoo. A tribal horse tattoo would be great body art, but have you really put that much thought into the research that you need to do before getting your new artwork? Getting a tribal tattoo can be very expensive, so you need to take the appropriate time and do the appropriate research so you can find just the right piece of art. Doing the right research can make all the difference between a good tattoo and a really great tattoo. There are many free places online to find tribal tattoo artwork, but if you look online you might run the risk of using someone else's design. And I'm sure that you want something unique.

One of the things I would avoid doing is using Google image search for your research. I bet you have already done just that. If you have, think about how many others have done the exact same thing. You should consider finding a tattoo artist that can do a custom piece for your new ink.

I would recommend that you check out tattoo galleries that have a membership fee so you can avoid a possible duplication of your artwork. A paid gallery site can offer much more than a free site. It gives you resources such as tattoo artists and tattoo enthusiasts as well as recommendations of quality local tattoo shops. It makes sense to have a current list of local tattoo artists that are known for their quality. You are about to take a big step in getting something very permanent. Make sure you get exactly what you want. I hope you find just the right piece of artwork for your tribal horse tattoo.