Japanese Dragon Tattoos on the Sunshine Coast
Based on the Sunshine Coast, Eli Ferguson specialises in large-scale Japanese tattoos, including dragon sleeves, backpieces and bodysuits.
The Japanese dragon (or Ryu) is one of the most iconic symbols in Japanese tattooing. Representing strength, wisdom and protection, the dragon embodies both power and grace.
Eli creates classic Japanese dragon tattoos that flow naturally with your body. Each design is drawn by hand, honouring the traditions of Japanese tattoo art and designed to move with you.
The Meaning Behind Japanese Dragon Tattoos
In traditional Japanese tattooing, dragons are depicted with three claws, reflecting the belief that dragons originated in Japan. People say that the further dragons are from their homeland, the more claws they have. This distinction in the number of claws is a significant detail in Japanese dragon mythology and dragon sleeve tattoos.
This small but important detail reflects the care Eli takes to respect cultural tradition in every design. You're welcome to book a consult with Eli to learn more about the meaning behind Japanese subject matter. The internet is a great resource to do your research, but Eli also has books and other reference materials to help you choose the subject matter for your tattoo.
Japanese dragons are respected as water gods and land creatures. They are said to feel at home in the ocean or flying in the clouds. This is why many Japanese dragon tattoos include wind, fire and water. These elements show the balance of opposites, yin and yang.
Flames often burst from the dragon’s limbs. Waves and other water elements surround these flames. This creates a tattoo full of movement and balance.
Dragon Sleeve Tattoos — Designed by Eli Ferguson
A dragon sleeve (or leg sleeve) is one of the most iconic designs in Japanese tattooing. Designed to wrap naturally around the arm or leg, it brings energy and movement to your body.
Each sleeve tattoo by Eli is custom-drawn by hand, to make sure that every detail complements your body’s form.
Whether you want a full sleeve, half sleeve or three-quarter sleeve, Eli will design a piece that reflects your vision while staying true to traditional Japanese motifs.
Dragon Backpiece Tattoos
If you want a dragon back tattoo or a full dragon backpiece, Eli Ferguson makes large, legible designs. These designs flow smoothly across the body.
A dragon back tattoo often shows the dragon in all its glory. It is mixed with traditional elements like clouds, waves or flames.
You can schedule a free consultation with Eli, in his studio on the Sunshine Coast. During the consult, Eli can draw on you, make suggestions and show you books and references.
Book a Consultation with Eli Ferguson
A dedicated tattooer and painter committed to making authentic, classic Japanese style tattoos. Raised on the Sunshine Coast, tattooing has taken Eli around Australia and Japan to learn from the best and hone his craft.
15 years ago Eli commenced his tattoo apprenticeship in Brisbane under Australian Japanese tattoo heavyweight Brendan O’Connor. Working beneath Brendan, one of Australia’s greats, laid the foundations for Eli’s culturally respectful approach to making Japanese tattoos.
To learn more about Japanese dragon tattoos, dragon sleeve tattoos or dragon backpiece tattoos, and how Eli can design a classic Japanese tattoo for you, book a consultation.
