Tattoo5.com

The koi tattoo is based on the fish by the same name which is generally quite popular in Japan. Today, the western world has adopted the tattoo with full acclaim and is using them to project different parts of their personality. Although, the koi has been interpreted as a Japanese fish, it is interesting to note that the fish has Chinese origins. Over the years, koi has passed into Japanese culture and now we feel privileged to be a part of this tradition when we get ourselves inked with this tattoo. But it is exciting when you notice the evolution of the koi and the integration of various colors in its design.

The koi tattoo is based on the brown colored koi fish of yesteryears. They were used to keep guard over the rice paddies and keep them clear of the dreaded insects. Slwoly, the koi or carp began to be available in various colors and so began its use as a fish to be kept on display. By selectively breeding the fish, new and fanciful designs of the koi fish came into recognition and the fish began to attract popular attention. Many distinctive patterns were formed on the fish and it began to be very suitable as a tattoo design. In trying to preserve the various types and colors of koi fish, there are many collectors who keep these fish as an exhibit.

There have been several interpretations of the koi tattoo and most of them are related to mythology and symbolism. It depicts how you can overcome extreme adversity with courage and determination. This in fact, comes from the story that the koi fish which can swim upstream and thus face adversity will be rewarded by becoming a dragon, which is a symbol of power and dominance. Some people also try to grab Lady Luck by carving these tattoos on their bodies. The golden carp is a special carrier of luck and is worn proudly by many people who are superstitious.

It is very interesting to draw a koi tattoo. You can draw them in many ways and also include a good amount of color in them. It will also make you look stylish and trendy. They can be drawn in any size and so you can have them in any part of your body. They can also be combined with other tattoo designs to make the effect look still more fantastic. The waterside usually forms the backdrop of these fishes with chrysanthemums adding to the scenery. If you are planning to get a koi tattoo done, then do consult an expert so that you can get a beautiful design on your body.

Koi tattoo designs are most fascinating tattoo patterns that are not only beautiful but also very meaningful. Classy in their design and positive in their symbolism, these Koi tattoos are hot favorites of many tattoo patrons.

Koi tattoo is one of the most colorful and beautiful tattoo designs. Equally popular among both genders, these Koi fish designs owe their origin to Japan where koi is associated with exceptional bravery. Since a koi fish has the ability to swim even against powerful upstream water currents, it is considered as a symbol of a new beginning by Japanese.

While many believe in this symbolism, there are others who opt for Koi tattoo because they feel it is a good sign that can ward off bad luck. There are several other meanings associated with Koi tattoo designs but there is one commonality in all the meanings and that is optimism. Some of the most common meanings often associated with koi tattoo designs are:

• Courage to brave all the challenges of life
• Determination and endurance even in critical situations.
• Good luck
• Independence and freedom.
• Strength to withstand the test of time

Koi tattoo designs are often inked in vibrant color tones and with attractive background themes. Though mostly done in colorful hues, koi design can also be inked in bolder shades of black. Yen Yang is one of the popular Koi designs that are inked in black and white shades. A combination of natural color schemes like white, red, black, yellow or gold is also preferred by many who want to give a touch of traditional style to their Koi tattoo.
However, one must consider skin tone before selecting the ink color for their design. For instance, it is always better for dark or olive skin to go for brighter and vibrant colors so that the design is visible. For yellow skin tone, golden, yellow and red are recommended. People with pinkish tone are luckier because they can experiment with different ink colors. Most of the color schemes integrate well with their skin tone.
Interesting background themes make a koi tattoo even more captivating. Usually a koi tattoo is depicted with splashing water. Some other complementary background themes can also be tried depending upon one’s preference.
Koi fish is often associated with honor and pride and hence this affects its positioning. Mostly, conservatives opt for hand, neck, forearm and the likes for a koi tattoo and non-conservatives go for navel, lower backs and even side of the neck and ankle.