This Polynesian leg band tattoo integrates and modifies an existing tattoo that Alain had on the side of his calf.
The turtle, which symbolizes his family, extends and adds meaning to the original tattoo, with the initials of the family members remaining on the 4 fins of the turtle.
The tattoo is visually divided into two parts, one dedicated to work and one to family, centrally joined by a row of spearheads with octopus tentacles (the warrior) that connect the flax leaves positioned at the base and those at the top. This symbolizes that family is the starting point, but also the destination, his family of origin and the new one, both central.
The manta ray symbolizes freedom and harmony, balance (with the Marquesan cross in the center), and it connects the turtle on one side and the hammerhead shark on the other (tenacity and determination, the work aspect).
Both the turtle and the shark follow a journey (the flight of the
albatross and the rows of birds) that leads them to overcome every
obstacle (both pass through the path of Kamehameha and the thorns
that lie along the way) to reach the central sun (joy and success),
under the guarding ancestors.
The steps of Mataora under the manta ray symbolize the steps of this
journey, the challenges overcome that have taken him higher each time.
On the work side, the centipedes symbolize the fighting spirit that led him to travel in search of prosperity (fish, fish hooks, and coconut palm leaves), while on the family side the braids represent unity even when apart.
The all-seeing eye, the two tiki, and the lizard bring protection and good luck.
The colored legenda below helps identify the main elements within
the tattoo: