When it comes to Japanese tattooing, few symbols hold as much significance and beauty as the kingyo, or Japanese goldfish. Recently, Edward Neo completed this striking half-sleeve tattoo for Justin, featuring classic details and vibrant colours that highlight the kingyo’s cultural and aesthetic importance.
What the Kingyo Represents in Japanese Culture
The kingyo is often associated with good fortune, prosperity and perseverance. It embodies grace and beauty, symbolising tranquility and abundance. In traditional Japanese art and tattoos, the kingyo is revered for its elegance and the fluidity it represents.
Edward brought this symbolism to life with a thoughtful design, ensuring every scale and detail harmonised with the composition and conveyed the kingyo’s graceful movement in water.
The Process of Creating the Half Sleeve
1. Complimentary Consultation
Edward began with a consultation to understand Justin’s vision, preferences and the cultural or personal elements he wanted to incorporate.
2. Design Phase
Edward created a custom design that balanced traditional Japanese aesthetics with his signature style of bold, powerful imagery. His designs are created to age gracefully and remain legible, even when viewed from afar or in motion.
For large-scale Japanese tattoos (horimono), Edward prioritises the harmony of the subjects. Justin’s half-sleeve features a kingyo swimming through rippling water, surrounded by cherry blossoms to enhance the composition.
3. Preparation
Skin preparation and stencil placement were critical for ensuring perfect alignment and flow around Justin’s arm. Edward carefully designed the tattoo to complement the natural contours of Justin’s arm for a cohesive and dynamic result.
4. Tattooing Process
- Linework: Precision and care laid the foundation for the design.
- Shading: Depth and dimension brought the kingyo to life.
- Colouring: Vibrant reds, vermillon and subtle green highlights captured the kingyo’s beauty and the fluidity of its watery surroundings.
This tattoo took four and a half sessions to complete, with healing time between phases to ensure the highest quality and vibrancy in the final piece.
Finding a Japanese Tattoo Artist for Sleeves
If you’re considering a Japanese-inspired sleeve, it’s essential to work with an artist who deeply understands the cultural significance of the imagery. Edward Neo’s proficiency in Japanese language and culture sets him apart.
Edward’s journey began in the mid-2000s when he started studying Japanese during his travels. He later studied the language at university and developed an appreciation for its culture and art. Before tattooing, Edward taught Japanese in high schools and tutored at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
This deep connection to Japanese culture enhances his ability to design authentic and meaningful tattoos, with a focus on flow and composition for large pieces like sleeves. Edward collaborates closely with clients to create designs that resonate personally and culturally.
Why Choose Edward Neo?
Edward is renowned for his expertise in Japanese tattooing, blending traditional techniques with modern artistry. His designs are bold, powerful and crafted to age gracefully while remaining striking and legible.
Book a Consultation
Ready to start your Japanese tattoo journey? Whether it’s a half-sleeve, full sleeve or custom piece, Edward Neo specialises in creating one-of-a-kind designs that are meaningful, bold and timeless.
Book a Consultation to discuss your ideas with Edward today.
