We have completed Luke’s Japanese octopus leg sleeve! Next sitting we can focus on the octopus itself! i cant wait to add some shading and detail into this piece. Whilst doing the Japanese background there has been some coverups also which covered really well and smooth enough. 

Luke and I have gone over how the shading will look in the octopus also so we have some vision for the final stage of shading of the Japanese octopus. We’re going full black and grey for this piece, so its really important the texture and shading differs from the background and how the textures sit in the octopus. 

A Japanese octopus tattoo (tako) symbolizes intelligence, adaptability, strength, and perseverance. Often used in irezumi (traditional Japanese tattooing), it represents protection, good luck, and the power of the ocean, frequently depicted with waves or other sea creatures. It also represents regeneration, recovery, and spiritual mystery.

Irezumi (Traditional): Octopuses are frequently incorporated into large-scale, flowing back pieces or sleeves, often paired with stormy waves, jagged rocks, or other marine creatures like koi fish.