This Polynesian half sleeve tattoo was prepared for Greg and it includes Micronesian elements to honour his roots and family.
Two islands are represented, Nauru and Kosrae, whose names appear on the trunks of a palm tree and a banana tree respectively, separated by the waves but with interwoven branches on the inside of the arm to symbolize their physical distance and their closeness in his heart.
The turtle represents his family, with his children and grandchildren depicted within the shell next to him and his wife, and with ancestors guarding the family from above (the star within them symbolizes their importance) and the tiki on the front flippers protecting it from all directions.
Braids symbolize this strong family union.
The sun at the base representing joy and eternity is made by Micronesian fish symbols mixed with spearheads and shark teeth to symbolize strength and adaptability, which brought achievements and knowledge (the stepping stones that make the base of the tattoo).
The albatross flight, the frigate, and the row of birds are all symbolic of voyage and safe return, and the octopus tentacle on top symbolizes tenacity and adaptability.
The ipu at the base is for fertility and prosperity, and the manulua next to the turtle symbolizes the union of two families.
His family protectors guard on them: the black giant next to the Kosrae tree and the stingray next to Nauru´s one.
Elements within the trees branches are for prosperity, unity, ocean, maturity, and protection.
The colored legenda below helps identifying the individual elements within the tattoo: