Phoenix Bird Tattoos

March-11-09

Bird Tattoos

posted by Admin - David

Bird tattoos have left their mark in practically every culture. In America, the eagle has made its way into many tattoos; however, there is, in fact, a different bird to represent every state in the country, and are often used to show regional pride. In Egyptian mythology the heron is said to be the creator of gods, goddesses, man and universe. Celtic mythology tells of women transformed into swans, and in Jewish tradition, the dove is seen as a guide to the soul. These are but a few of the many stories, traditions and religious beliefs that feature birds.

One of the most popular bird tattoos is the swallow. This bird was originally used by sailors; they could represent anything from a successfully completed journey, to a protection of their souls on unpredictable waters. Later, swallows become a kitschy image, and were used alongside things such as dice, nautical stars and musical notes. Today they are meant mostly as a symbol of freedom. They are usually seen in blues, yellows and reds; and are generally depicted in flight upon the shoulder blades, hands, hips or neck.

Cardinals are also widely featured in bird tattoos. These delicate and brightly colored birds
are said to be a symbol of happiness and vitality. The most widely recognized is the Northern cardinal, who is colored in a bold red hue (occasionally with burgundy wings), and a black mask on its face. However, there is the Yellow-green Grosbeak which — like its namesake — is an unusual hue of iridescent yellow and green, or the Blue Bunting who is similar in appearance to the Northern, save for its striking indigo hue. The cardinal can appear alone in your piece, or you may have a variety of cardinals, all flying in different directions.

Bird tattoos are generally rife with meaning of their own; however, you can apply your own
meaning as well. For instance, a parrot on your shoulder may be a sign of luck or protection, as it ‘watches out’ for you, and can whisper warnings in your ear. A canary may be a great design for a musician or singer, as they are known for their beautiful voices. A flamingo may be a sign of quirky personality, and kingfishers can be the symbol of a well practiced huntsman.

Whatever design or bird you choose, no matter what your reasoning may be, there is always one thing you can be certain of; your bird tattoos will be strong symbols of freedom and a connection to the sky above and the Earth below.

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December-18-08

Phoenix Tattoos

posted by Admin - David

Phoenix tattoos are said to be the ultimate sign of rebirth and eternal life. To the Greeks and Egyptians, this symbol represented the sun dying at the end of a day and rising in the morning to be reborn. The phoenix is also said to live for five hundred years, then goes to rest by building a nest which it sets aflame, the fire consuming both. After three days the phoenix will rise again from the ashes and begin anew. These tales have struck a cord with many people, and to express their new beginning — or ‘rising from the ashes — they decide to get a phoenix tattoo.

Phoenix tattoos are generally a rather considerable scale, encompassing large sections of the body such as the back, chest or wrapping around the leg or upper arm. There is a good reason for this, as most of these pieces are very detailed, and given that it is an expression of a new life beginning, it makes sense that these should make a powerful statement.

Phoenix tattoos are usually very colorful. Most will contain reds, yellows and oranges, as the phoenix is closely associated with fire and the sun. However, for a more unique look, some will use blues, purples, greens and tones of copper and gold. Less frequently, people will use blacks and grays, and only outline the massive wings and body of the phoenix.

Some of the most popular phoenix tattoos are seen with the sizable bird surrounded by fire. It can also be seen partially obscured and rising from its ashes, or bursting through the sun. A unique idea that can be used to symbolize the shift of days is having your phoenix surrounding the globe, its tail shadowing one end, and its face brightening the other.

Many also like to use the Egyptian phoenix. In early incarnations of this figure, the phoenix had the body of a man and the expansive wings of the phoenix. This image has changed over time, it became a wholly bird-like creature eventually, but the story has remained the same, and is seen in art as being immersed in flame so as to begin its transformation.

So whether you are beginning a new life, have survived troubled times and have become stronger for it, or the idea of such a masterful creature appeals to you, phoenix tattoos will always make for a beautiful and strong choice.