Olympus Blog

Mish (@mish_tattoo) is a talented realism tattooer working out of the world renowned shop Ship Shape Tattoo, located in the beautiful city of Auckland, New Zealand. 

Mish is gifted at doing both black and grey realism as well as color realism pieces as well.

One of the people Mish learned from was one of the all time leading black and grey artists, Matt Jordan (@mattjordantattoo) (as well as others at the shop). 

To tell you just a little of what I know about their studio, Ship Shape (@shipshapetattoo) is a place full of artists who excel in many different aspects of art, starting with their top notch work ethic. They also all take pride in creating work that is built to stand the test of time, much of it being unique large-scale pieces made to fit different entire body parts such as full fronts, backs, arms, legs, etc. They also love using custom and unorthodox imagery, stuff you definitely do not see everyday (check out  https://reference87.com for incredible tattoo reference inspiration).

I got the opportunity to ask Mish some questions, and we talked about a variety of things including built-to-last realism work, some of the underrated difficulties of tattooing, tattooing and its impact on artists mental health, and more. Hope you guys enjoy the read!

 

First of all I just wanted to hear a little bit about the dynamic between you and the squad over at Ship Shape.  It’s known by many to be one of the very most all around talented shops on the entire planet. Can you talk a bit about what goes on around there, what exactly is in the water at your guys studio so to speak?

First of all, as Ben said – we’re fucking awesome! And, thank you! We are all quite close friends here – there’s really not a hierarchy.  We all recognize each other’s strengths and weaknesses and try to be quite open and honest with each other.  It’s a very nurturing environment, we all feel quite comfortable to critique each other’s work and are very open to sharing any knowledge with one another.  If I have a question, I can ask.  There is always going to be advice and answers available from everyone in the studio.  We all have the same goal: we just want to do the best tattoos we can.  As soon as I walk in the door, I feel inspired to push myself to produce good work. 

What are a few things you have learned are especially important in order to create a built-to-last black and grey tattoo?  And what about the same question but for color realism/surrealism?

Picking a strong reference image is very important.  One that has  enough contrast and structure.  For the longevity of a tattoo, contrast and structure is crucial.  Also, understanding the type of skin I am working on and adjusting my techniques to work with different types of skin in order to achieve the maximum effect – be it dark or light skin. 

How many years in the game are you right now, and what has been the toughest but most valuable lesson you’ve learned since your time tattooing thus far?

I have been tattooing for 9 and a half years.  It’s all tough! Throughout my career and throughout many peoples – there are always going to be new challenges.  Mentally, being happy with my own work is very difficult.  I am still not 100% happy with my work, and I am unsure if I ever will be.  This can be really hard. Sometimes I do think about finding something easier to do!  I can find myself struggling with this. Pushing through the mental block for me, is definitely the biggest challenge. I remind myself how fortunate I am that I can do this for a job. It is a super fun job and extremely rewarding when I create something for a client that they absolutely love – it makes it all worth it!  At the end of the day, making clients really happy is an amazing feeling and very important.  It helps me to do the best I can and reminds me to have fun with it! 

What are three aspects of tattooing that you would say are underratedly difficult?

-Placement/composition

-Pain management

-Communication between the client and artist.  It’s not so much about the act of tattooing, but it is still a huge part of tattooing. Working with people to get the best result. 

Number one best overall piece of advice you could give all of your future clients?

Trust me!  But also, be straightforward and honest with your opinions and thoughts.



Since the time you’ve been tattooing, what have been some changes you’ve seen along the way in the industry?  Any big changes you may hope to see or predict to see?

I think the attitude towards tattooing has changed. It has definitely become more fine art driven.  More and more artists are starting to branch out and absorb ideas and concepts from outside of tattooing!  I hope COVID ends soon and we can all get back to doing conventions and travelling! 



How can clients who may be new to the tattoo world tell what is real vs what is fake these days online? Any advice for that?

Man, the only way is to go into a tattoo shop, talk to the tattooists.  Nothing beats first hand experience!  See how it works on skin. We can see amazing tattoos on the internet, but it may not look the same on your body.  The only way to find out is to go out there and start getting tattooed!



Could you pick out one of your absolute your favorite moments since becoming a tattoo artist and talk a bit about it?

When Matt asked me if I wanted a job at Ship Shape, when he was tattooing me!  Matt was tattooing a portrait of my dog, I was working part time between studios and halfway through our session, he asked me what my plan was. I told him “I dont know!  I am trying to spend more time painting, and kinda finding myself” and he asked if I wanted to work here.  Then I told him I’d think about it haha.  But you know, I was secretly very excited. 



How has tattooing impacted your mental health?

It is up and down!  There are good and bad, as I mentioned before you know, being not content with my work can be really depressing and difficult.  But, on the other hand, tattooing gives me an instant validation that I have never experienced in any other creative industry. I get to produce a piece of work on that particular day, and get the validation from the client and co workers. That is pretty important, it gives me a purpose and makes me feel good about myself. Also, people want my work!  Selling paintings is hard! I have sat and stewed if my paintings have been good enough in the past, with tattooing people book in because they like my work. That is really validating. 



Best piece of advice you have received along the way? Who was it from?

 

“Take your time and think about what you are doing” – Matt Jordan 🙂 



Thanks to anyone who took the time to read this, and a special thank you to Mish for taking the time to answer these questions for us. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @mish_tattoo, as well as their shop page @shipshapetattoo.

 

Talking about tattoo meaning change, here I’ll write my friend life experience. Today I log in to my Instagram and see a triangle tattoo meaning change by my friend. Of course, I’m interested in write this, because she put up this design between the index finger and thumb. A photo of a finger with a tattoo of three points arranged as a triangle. This design is an abbreviation of “mi vida loca,” which means “my life’s crazy.” Then, what she said?

“I suffered I learned I changed tattoo meaning.” LOL…

Yeah, however her expression she has made triangle tattoo meaning change for her life. Regardless of what she meant, why she put a three-point symbol on the hem of her fingers. But at least he has to interpret what is going on in her life and being able to express it anyway. According to her the design of the triangle symbolizes the meaning; orientation can also be an indication of what her life means. At least that’s what he calls the tattoo meaning change.

Peoples out there may ever think to make her body tattooed have tattoo symbol and meaning for their entire life. Afterward, what we will do as we have never known at all about new beginning tattoo quotes or just simple thing as triangle tattoo. Let us start to know that actual tattoo we made is can be a symbol for curiosity or even symbol for overcoming struggle. We can see tattoo meaning change and strength here. There are many points of view about this skin art for other nation in past. Letting go of the past tattoos, because we live in nowadays where ink art is being part of lifestyle and fashion.

Tattoo Meaning Change and Strength

Here I have some tattoo ideas meaning change, maybe it can add to your inspiration. Of course, these not tattoos with secret meanings because I have written everything, but rest assured that this is unique. I choose from the secret album of my friend to share with you. At least this is the symbols for change and growth tattoos that I have written on this page.

If we think that symbols for change and growth tattoos will all run according to space and time. Of all the stories experienced by someone, a tattoo can become symbols of change and new beginnings in his life. Of course, this will be tattoos with deep meaning for personality in living her life. From there we can interpret that tattoos that symbolize growth and change for one’s life.

Triangle Tattoo Meaning Change

Can tattoo meaning change? Tattoos for starting over a relationship or even getting the tattoo after breakup are showing that this skin art can be said everything in life. Celtic symbol for new beginning relationship often liked by men who think he will be everlasting with their love. While women maybe prefer a compass rose tattoo placed on her body as what they own meaning. Although so many sources knowledge symbol tattoo that we can found, it has own meaning for peoples who belonging it. And so, tattoo meaning change by the knowledge of a person.

Often, triangular tattoos are also a symbol of creativity, passion, and simplicity. Triangle tattoo meaning change harmony, proportion, illumination, and integration. Triangles are one of the oldest symbols in existence. In fact, this symbol has many meanings that can be used in almost all tattoo designs. In addition to the Holy Trinity; triangle tattoo meaning change to represent several of other symbols of the Trinity. Then, I list some of the most popular examples of the meaning of a triangle in terms of philosophy. Among others are:

• Mind, body, and soul
• Past, present and future
• Children Mothers and fathers 
• Thoughts, feelings, and emotions
• The mother, the girl and the crone
• The creation, preservation, and destruction

In a conviction; triangle tattoo meaning change and can be used to represent the eye of Providence or eye of the Seer. Maybe you often see an eye in a triangle, surrounded by light. For the people of Greece, the triangle is considered to represent a door. Because of this, the triangle is often used to represent the polarity of paving the way to higher wisdom. Meanwhile, Celtic cultures using triangular in Celtic knots and Trinity design.

Japanese Tattoo Meaning Change

Overall, the traditional Japanese tattoo rules represent change. They assume that death is the greatest change man can experience. Of course, this cannot be denied by anyone in the world. The deep rules of all traditional Japanese tattoo meaning change have added depth to their art. This has helped them survive for centuries and increase their attractiveness to known by so many people outside Japan. 

All about symbol and various ornaments, creatures, and the person who described the Japanese tattoo meaning change. It is typical that transcends the implied meaning or metaphor that is inherent in all art. These symbols are used to convey confidence, aspirations, or the nature of the person. In some cases, they even tell the story and the myth of the famous. This called motifs. These elements of design have the same meaning wherever they are using. And so, that the meaning is not unique to everyone. That means that anyone who sees the symbol can instantly recognize the tattoo meaning change. They know what is delivered by the wearer, whether personality traits, character attributes, or relationship.

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Baphomet is an ancient monument shrouded in dark undertones having become synonymous with the devil and satanism but has a much more complex meaning

If you are looking for a tattoo design that is mysterious and attention grabbing, then read on to learn more about the dark history of this symbolic idol

There are always two sides to every story, and this mystical creature has dual meanings behind its appearance beginning in the times of the crusades

The artists at ALL DAY Tattoo studio in Bangkok, can help you craft a Baphomet piece that speaks to you and will be the talk of the town

 

The first recorded appearance of Baphomet dates back to 1098 during the first crusade

Stemming from eye-witness accounts written about the Siege of Antioch

The Count of Ostrevant and Valenciennes, Anselm Ribemont, wrote that “The Turks called loudly upon the name of Baphomet in the heat of battle.”

Some claim that Baphomet was mistranscribed, and it was actually supposed to be “Mohomet” an archaic version of the French word for Muhammad, the founder of Islam

It was then that this deity of a winged man with the head of a goat made his debut into the history books as a pagan idol

 

The Knights Templar were a medieval Catholic military order and the most skilled fighting units of the crusades

It is said that the Templars amassed great wealth and power, quite possibly triggering their persecution and downfall

Support for the Order faded when the Holy Land was lost, and distrust was sowed amongst the Church regarding their secret rituals and rumored worship of idols.

King Philip IV of France, who was deeply indebted to the Order, used this distrust to destroy the Templars and eliminate his debt.

He accused the Knights of idolatry, heresy, and a host of other transgressions.

The Templars were arrested, ruthlessly tortured into giving false confessions, and subsequently burned at the stake.

 

What did Baphomet mean to the Knights Templar?

One thing is for sure, the Templars did not associate Baphomet with Satan or the worship of the devil

Baphomet did not take on the Satanic connotations until sometime in the mid 20^th century

Well after the usage of this figure head in Eliphas Levi’s infamous drawing of the idol from his publication of “Dogma and Rituals of High Magic”

In this publication, Levi goes into great depth of the symbolism behind the imagery of the “Sabbatic Goat,” or Baphomet

The goat head has an image of a pentagram on its forehead with the point at the top

This is a symbol of light

The two hands form the sign of occultism

With one hand pointing up to the white moon called the “Chesed.”

While the other hand is pointing down to the black moon called “Geburah.”

This is representative of the perfect harmony between mercy and justice

In addition, both arms represent balance as one is male and the other is female

The “Flame of Intelligence,” sits between the horns and is the magic light that is symbolic of universal balance

The flame representing the soul elevated above matter, while still being tied to it but yet shining above it

The head also stands for the horror of the sinner with its material actions causing the soul to be exclusively responsible for bearing the punishment

As the soul can only suffer when it materializes

The rod standing erect in place of the genitals is symbolic of eternal life

The body covered with scales represents water

The semi-circle above represents the atmosphere and the feathers are a symbol of volatility

Humanity is represented by the two breasts and the androgyne arms of the Sphinx of the occult sciences

Baphomet’s history and meaning spans back to a time in history before it was a symbol synonymous with the devil

Prior to this time, it was a symbol that held significance in many religions such as Islam, Gnosticism, and Sectarianism

It is now up to you to decide what meaning Baphomet holds for you and your tattoo journey!

 

Baphomet tattoos are versatile and can run the full gamut of tattoo styles depending on your particular fancy

If you are looking for a large back piece, this design can look amazing in color or black and grey and can pack a punch with details on this larger area

If you prefer something more simplistic, then a small tarot card design with minimal lines may be the option for you

If you are interested in starting a sleeve or medium size piece, Baphomet can be a great focal point for your new design

Whatever route your tattoo journey takes you on, let the world class artists at ALL DAY Tattoo studio in Bangkok, lead you down the right path

 

Let us accommodate you with 5-star service and a smile

When you step through our door, you will soon realize that this is not just a job for us, this is our passion!

The level of care and work you will receive will be hard to match going forward, and we take pride in each step of the process so you will never feel rushed or hurried into making a decision

ALL DAY Tattoo studio is easily accessible in the heart of Sukhumvit

We are Bangkok’s #1 fully licensed studio in the capital

Our studio is a modern, hip, and ultra-hygienic environment

We only use the highest quality USA-imported inks and single use disposable needles

We have the best world renown and award-winning artists

Our highly experienced team speaks fluent English and can ensure that every detail of your new tattoo is flawless and exactly what you want

There is a reason that ALL DAY TATTOO STUDIO is consistently rated the best studio in Bangkok

We provide a personal tattoo experience that is unparalleled!

Stop in and let us knock your socks off !!!

Swirl tattoos are unique and trending designs that are getting popular every passing day due to their powerful symbolism.

Several people opt for these tattoos due to their capability of creating an optical illusion, while many others choose them for their hypnotizing ability.

If you are looking for an eye-catching tattoo design that carries layers of meaning within its swirling lines, then swirls might just be a perfect choice.

Swirl Tattoo Ideas

You can choose a single swirl or an elaborate pattern of intertwined lines. The swirling lines and curves can be customized to create a variety of shapes and patterns that reflect the individual’s very own style. Here are some of the best swirl tattoo ideas you can try out:

1. Celtic knotwork – These perplexing patterns are often used as a symbol of strength, unity, and love; they look great in any size or color combination. It also symbolizes the interconnectedness of life and eternity.

2. Tribal style – If you take a look at the old Polynesian (or Aztec) tattoo designs you will find that many ancient tribes were fond of swirl tattoos. You can give a modern take on those tribal pieces and have a unique tattoo that will surely stand out from the crowd. It will also represent strength and protection from negative forces.

3. Floral swirls – For a more feminine look, a combination of your favorite flower along with swirl tattoos is the way to go. You can choose from roses, lilies, daisies, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, etc.

4. Geometric shapes – Add some pizzazz to your swirl tattoo by incorporating geometric shapes into the design, such as circles, diamonds, and hexagons.

5. Galaxy swirls – You can bring out your inner space enthusiast with an intergalactic take on the traditional swirl motif. The good thing about the swirl pattern is that it can be easily modified into any galaxy that you find interesting. Most people go for our home galaxy – The Milky way but with so many options available we can say that the sky is the limit.

6. Dragonflies – Delicate dragonfly wings in swirling patterns make for an elegant tattoo design. The swirling patterns in the design of the dragonfly wings add to the symbolism of transformation, as the curves and loops can represent the twists and turn that often occur during a period of change.

7. Yin-yang – This classic symbol of balance and harmony looks great in a swirl tattoo design. Choose from black and white or opt for a more colorful approach with bold hues.

8. Watercolor swirls – For an edgy, modern look, try out watercolor swirl tattoos. The mix of colors creates a unique fluid effect that is sure to turn heads.

9. Dreamcatcher – Dreamcatchers have become extremely popular in recent years, so why not add this classic motif to your swirl tattoo? Swirls in tattoo designs are often associated with fluidity, movement, and change, making them a perfect complement to the dreamcatcher’s symbolism of filtering out negative energy and promoting positive change.

10. Butterflies – Butterflies are always a popular choice when it comes to body art, and they look even better in a swirling pattern. The curves and loops of the swirls can represent the twists and turn that often occur during periods of transformation (from Larva to butterfly), making them a perfect complement to the butterfly’s symbolism.

11. Hearts – If you are looking for something romantic, why not add some hearts to your swirl tattoo design? This timeless symbol can be designed in any style or color palette to suit your preference.

12. Skulls – For an edgier take on the traditional spiral motif, opt for a skull-inspired design. Add bold details like flames or tribal patterns to give it an even more unique look.

13. Infinity symbols – An infinity symbol makes for a great addition to any swirl tattoo; it represents eternity and never-ending love, making it perfect for couples’ tattoos as well.

14. Anchors – An anchor is a timeless symbol of hope and stability, making it the perfect choice for your swirl tattoo design.

15. Mandalas – Mandala designs are subtle yet striking; they look great in black and grey as well as in more vibrant colors like pink and green.

16. Peacock feather – A bold peacock feather looks beautiful when incorporated into a swirling tattoo. These feathers come in an array of stunning colors that will make your tattoo stand out.

17. Sunburst – Make your swirl tattoo even more eye-catching with a sunburst design. This style adds a dramatic touch to any pattern and looks especially good with brighter colors such as orange or yellow.

18. Stars – Incorporating stars into your swirl tattoo gives it an extra touch of sophistication. Choose from simple star shapes or opt for a more complicated pattern with multiple points.

19. Nautical knot – A nautical knot design can add a bit of maritime flair to your body art. These knots are often used as symbols of strength and courage, making them the perfect addition to any swirl tattoo.

20. Geometric animals – For something truly unique, why not try out a geometric animal-inspired swirl tattoo? This style offers endless possibilities; you could go with a classic lion, elephant, or giraffe design, or get creative and come up with something more abstract. Whatever you choose, this is sure to be a one-of-a-kind work of art.

21. Dragon Swirl: Dragons have been part of ancient mythology for centuries, so it’s no surprise they make great swirl tattoos. They often feature a dragon in the center of a spiral pattern, which is symbolic of brute force and strength.

Swirl Tattoos Meanings and Symbolisms

Swirl tattoos are often seen as an expression of two energies coming together in unity to create a single, meaningful design. They represent the harmony and balance found when two different forces join – be it Yin and Yang, good and evil, fire and water, or any other opposites that you can think of.

Swirl designs indicate a sense of oneness between these contrasting elements, showing that they can work together in perfect harmony. Furthermore, swirls are also associated with eternity due to their continuous nature; they are seen as symbols of never-ending energy and life force.

Given this symbolism, swirl tattoos can have many different meanings depending on the wearer’s individual beliefs and outlook.

Generally speaking, however, they may represent the duality of life, the blending of two halves, or simply a remembrance that all things are interconnected.

They can also indicate a sense of growth and transformation, depicting a journey from one stage to another or even symbolizing the process of evolution. Ultimately these tattoos may imply that it is possible to find peace amid chaos and balance amid opposing forces – something we could all use a little more of.

Forearm Swirl Tattoo

Swirl Stencil Drawing

Galaxy Swirl Tattoo

Also Read Gun tattoo

Conclusion

With their timeless beauty and universal symbolism, they are sure to make an impressive statement on your skin. No matter what message you are trying to communicate, you can be sure that a swirling tattoo will carry it with grace and style.

References: Swirl Wiki

Matteo Pasqualin is a legendary  black and grey tattoo artist working out of Brembate, Italy, who has been tattooing since 1997!!

His work speaks for itself, but if I were to give my two cents on it I would say that Matteo is a master at creating work that is built to stand the test of time, a master at creating tattoos with very unique and unorthodox imagery,  a master at understanding the anatomy of tattooing on each body part, and so much more. 

In this interview, I got the opportunity to talk with Matteo about topics such as his roots as a black and grey tattooing pioneer, his most bizarre experience with a client, one thing he wishes all his clients understood, and more.  Thanks for looking, hope you guys enjoy! 

To begin, I just want to remind you that you are notorious for being one of the greatest black and gray tattoos of all time.  Some of the very best of the best will say that you are one of their very favorite artists, for instance David Vega.  Can you talk to me a little bit about how you achieve the results of such a beautiful healed tattoo?

Hello Jordan.  First of all thank you for the very nice description that you gave about me.

You asked about my healed tattoos. So, I can answer that the healing has always been one of my main topics.  I started on ’97 and without socials – your work could grow only by the feedback of someone being my client.  If the tattoo had a bad healing, it was for sure a bad feedback.  Moreover, I think that ensuring a good healing (more than a good picture….) would have to be the priority of every tattooist.

I know you’ve been tattooing multiple decades. If you could go back in time to when you first began, what three key pieces of advice would you give yourself that you know now?

To be honest, I would re-do it all just as I did but there is something that I do regret…I would have tried to focus more on the business side of tattooing, instead of being a ‘lonely wolf’….!  I meant that I would have to focus on building a team of tattooists under my wing, many years ago, when I was one of the few that was doing realism with good feedbacks.

What has been your most bizarre experience with a client so far?

It has been many years ago. A girl, I did her name on her wrist. In purple.  I told her that was not a good idea because the lines with color don’t heal so sharp. She insisted…! When she called me to tell me that the tattoo needed a retouch, I thought it was because she realized color was not good for lines like I had told her… But I was so shocked when I realized that it was because she tried to change the position of the tattoo, by stretching and pulling the skin the entire day after – thinking that it was possible to do, since it was a fresh tattoo……

The Internet is a wild place. What would you say have been some of the biggest changes you have noticed in the industry, whether positive or negative, since Instagram and other social sites blew up?

For sure we all have to say thanks to the net because it allowed us to develop our art around the wide world and not only around our town.  It also allowed for many tattooists of this new generation, to grow very fast.  But in the same way, it made many of us become lazy, with not so much imagination since when it’s possible to make a copy-paste tattoo….

 Biggest inspirations in the industry?

Biggest inspiration in the industry, I have it by consulting day by day with my big friend Thomas Carli Jarlier. For sure he’s my favorite tattoo artist. and I also have to say John Maxx has been and still is a tattooist that, at some point of my career, really totally changed all my points of how I go about tattooing. Since then, I really like the way I tattoo.

Can you list a couple of things that you really wish each of your clients understood that would save you both headache/frustration?

Yes! For sure it would be if they could listen to me when I write them: “Come by yourself and don’t arrive too early……”

They never do… I hate it!

 What did your very first tattoo look like? Can you attach a photo of that, and also attach a photo of a tattoo you are most proud of?

I could not show my first tattoo because I covered. But i can show my 6th tattoo, that i did on myself, on my forearm.

The tattoo i am most proud of, is the tattoo that changed my life: the ‘London sleeve’ :

 What type of thoughts are usually going through your head as you tattoo?

Normally when I tattoo, I usually let my clients watch movies. so I hear them and it’s like listening to an audiobook.

 

Three biggest mistakes you see tattoo artists making that might be very simple to fix?

1st mistake: putting exciting music on during the tattoo session. It makes the client last less. The client needs to be relaxed if you want to work upon his/her skin for many hours.

2nd mistake: To take too many breaks. Skin suffers more and concentration dies fast.

3rd mistake: (this is the most important ) – To think that the tattoo could be a good opportunity to make a cool picture/video that, once edited as well, could ride the media for good, making the actual tattoo intention less important than the picture of it. Nowadays, some tattooists are more interested in pleasing the followers, instead of pleasing the client…

Top three pieces of advice for the countless amount of tattoo artists hoping to get to the level you have reached?

Seems a stupid answer, I know. but it’s the truth: I wish to all of them to never being completely satisfied of what they did and always being curious to learn a better way to work. It’s the only way to never lose passion. and without passion, tattooing becomes only a boring job…

 

Thank you to anyone who took the time to read/look at this piece, please be sure to follow Matteo on Instagram @matteopasqualin.

Huge thank you to Matteo as well for taking his valuable time to do this.