Hawaiian tattoos on your forearm are an outstanding way to show your uniqueness and showcase your individuality. Their intricate and captivating designs make these bold pieces stunning. Ancient Hawaiians used a complex process for inking tattoos that required many separate rituals and took months for complete healing.
Shark Teeth
Tattooed shark teeth have long been used to represent strength, power, and integrity in Hawaiian tattoo culture. Shark teeth can serve as an additional symbol of protection and can ward off negative energy. Sailors have traditionally worn shark teeth as protective charms; now surfers frequently do as well. The shark tooth has long been recognized as an ancient symbol of strength and power across cultures worldwide, becoming an iconic symbol to be revered across time. According to legend, finding a shark tooth can help protect its wearer from harm and give them the courage to face life’s obstacles.
Furthermore, this precious piece can also provide spiritual guidance and insight. Ancient Hawaiian culture believed sharks symbolized ancestral spirits known as “Aumakua.” Some Aumakua had mysterious powers and appeared as sharks to people to offer advice, warnings, or punishments.
Bird of Prey
Birds have always played an integral part in world mythology and folklore, serving as spirit guides and symbols of strength, higher understanding, and knowledge. This striking hawk tattoo combines realistic detail with geometric forms, featuring eyes outlined with grayscale shading. The phoenix, another powerful bird of prey, represents transformation and new beginnings with its symbolic flame and ash combination that can mean a journey through fire or difficulty. There are various bird tattoo designs, each representing its own meaning.
Kakau
Kakau tattoos are a type of Polynesian tattoo with multiple meanings. They may represent someone’s heritage, family history, or significant life events. An ancient warrior symbol, spearheads, and shark teeth can often be found adorning Hawaiian tattoos as symbols of warrior power. Tattooing a turtle on one’s body is another popular Hawaiian trend that can symbolize long life, good health, or peace, depending on its design. Polynesian tattoos offer an excellent option for men looking to add some culture and flair to their arms. Available in various formats, these Polynesian designs make a striking statement and are suitable for full sleeves or half sleeves.
Polynesian Sleeve
Polynesian forearm tattoos offer an exciting and distinctive way to display Hawaiian heritage. Each symbol in this style of tattoo carries deep spiritual significance that can reveal more about who you are as an individual. Polynesian culture honors Tiki figures as deified ancestors and guardians who symbolize fertility, protection, and long life. Tiki are symbols of fertility, safety, and longevity. They come in various designs, with the most common being circular patterns with eyes closed depictions used as a symbol of generosity and sincerity. This half-sleeve embodies traditional Polynesian signs such as ocean waves, tiki eyes, shark teeth, and Renata patterns – not forgetting little triangles and geckos! Polynesian sleeves can be placed anywhere on the body, though it’s most often associated with strength when placed on shoulders and upper arms. Warrior chiefs would often have these tattoos to symbolize their power.
