Becoming Ryu (by Horimatsu)

Mick just visited me from Denmark. His first gobu (5/10) sleeve was finnished after three days of continous work. He was a true fighter and hero and I am very pleased with this piece. Maybe next year will see the other gobu in place?

Ryu with Red Koi and Momiji.

This piece on Johhny's arm is almost finnished. Maybe one and a half hours or so left, and then we'll be there. He's one of the group of clients from neighbouring city Örnsköldsvik, and I look forward to starting on his other sleeve when the time and opportunity presents itself.

This piece also depicts the story of the Koi trying to leap the waterfall and when succesful is awarded with becoming a Ryu. The golden Ryukoi on his inner part of the arm shows the Koi in mid-transformation.

Koi and Momiji.

The classic design of the leaping Koi with Momiji (maple leaves), symbolizing strength and perseverance. Dan approached me about getting a full body irezumi piece depicting only Koi, water and Momiji. On his chest I have put a Ryukoi (Dragonkoi), showing the transformation from Koi to Ryu (dragon). We've working on it for some time now and we're slowly getting there, inch by inch. It's always a true pleasure to work on this piece. I have no personal preference as to what the subject matter of an Irezumi piece should be, as long as it fits traditionally and culturally. Sometimes I like them intricate, weaving many stories and characters into one whole, and sometimes I like them simple as this one. I always like them though.